X Ray both Calcaneum Lateral and Axial View

The axial view (Harris‑Beath or plantodorsal projection) of the calcaneus is an X‑ray taken with the heel on the image receptor and the beam angled cephalad about 40° to the foot’s long axis. It shows the calcaneal tuberosity, posterior facet and subtalar joint, and is used to assess fractures, Bohler’s angle, calcaneal width and posterior facet displacement.

Lateral position for a calcaneus X‑ray: the patient lies on the side with the affected foot closest to the detector, knee flexed about 45°. The ankle is in a neutral lateral orientation so the calcaneus contacts the image receptor. The central X‑ray beam is perpendicular to the detector and centered on the calcaneus (around the subtalar joint) to include the entire calcaneus and ankle.

For an axial (plantodorsal) calcaneus projection, the central ray is angled approximately 40° cephalad to the long axis of the foot. Aim the beam at the plantar surface toward the base of the third metatarsal so it exits over the calcaneus. This angle best profiles the calcaneal tuberosity and subtalar joint; some protocols allow a slight variation (about 35–45°).

Standard X‑rays for a suspected calcaneal (heel bone) fracture are lateral and axial (Harris) views. The lateral film shows Bohler’s and Gissane angles and displacement; the axial view assesses heel width and medial/lateral column shift. Broden (oblique) views may clarify the posterior facet. CT is commonly obtained for complex fractures and surgical planning.

Axial in X‑ray refers to images taken along the body’s horizontal (transverse) plane, producing cross‑sectional slices that divide the body into top and bottom parts. An axial view can also mean the X‑ray beam is directed along the long axis of a body part, giving detailed internal anatomy and spatial relationships useful for diagnosis and treatment planning.

The four standard ankle X‑ray views are: Anteroposterior (AP) — frontal view, often weightbearing; Mortise — 15–20° internal rotation to open the tibiotalar joint; Lateral — mediolateral profile showing talus, calcaneus and alignment; Oblique/stress view — assesses syndesmosis, ligament stability and occult fractures when indicated. Choice of views depends on clinical indication.