X Ray Both Heel Axial and Lateral View

A both-heel lateral view X-ray is a radiographic study taken with each heel positioned laterally to capture side-view images of both calcanei in a single examination. It shows bone alignment, fractures, joint spaces and soft-tissue shadows around the heel and subtalar joint. It’s used to evaluate suspected calcaneal fractures, heel pain, arthritis or post-traumatic deformity, guiding diagnosis and treatment.

The axial (plantodorsal/Harris–Beath) view is an X‑ray projection of the calcaneus obtained with the beam angled cephalad (about 40°) through the foot from plantar to dorsal surface. It demonstrates the posterior calcaneal tuberosity, the posterior facet of the subtalar joint and sustentaculum tali, aiding detection of calcaneal fractures, articular depression and posterior‑facet displacement.

For a lateral calcaneus X‑ray the patient lies on the affected side (or sits) with the calcaneus against the image receptor. The knee is flexed for comfort and the ankle dorsiflexed to a right angle so the malleoli are superimposed in a true lateral. The central X‑ray beam is aimed at the calcaneus, including the subtalar joint, perpendicular to the receptor.

Initial X-rays for heel pain typically include weight-bearing lateral and axial (Harris or plantodorsal) calcaneal views to assess plantar fasciitis, calcaneal spurs and fractures. An AP or oblique weight-bearing view of the foot and focused ankle views may be added when indicated. Advanced imaging (MRI/CT) is reserved if radiographs are inconclusive or a stress fracture/tumor or soft-tissue pathology is suspected.

A lateral view on an X‑ray is a side‑view projection obtained with the X‑ray beam passing from one side of the body to the other, at right angles to the frontal (AP/PA) view. It gives depth information, separates overlapping structures, and helps assess alignment, fractures, displacements, joint spaces, and fluid or air levels—commonly used for the spine, chest, skull, and extremities.

Lateral heel pain in both feet—pain on the outer heels—commonly stems from overuse (peroneal tendonitis), heel‑pad syndrome, calcaneal stress or nerve entrapment and may be worsened by poor footwear or biomechanics. Signs: sharp or aching pain with weight-bearing, tenderness, swelling. Initial care: rest, ice, NSAIDs, supportive shoes, stretching and orthotics. See a GP or physiotherapist if pain is severe, persistent, causes numbness or prevents walking.