X Ray Both Heels Lateral View

A both heel lateral view X‑ray is a radiographic examination capturing lateral side images of both calcanei (heels), either separately or as paired lateral exposures. It evaluates calcaneal fractures, bone alignment, posterior tuberosity, subtalar joint space and soft‑tissue outlines. Commonly used after trauma, for chronic heel pain or preoperative assessment; measurements such as Bohler’s angle guide diagnosis and treatment.

A "both heel lateral" (both heel lat) is a lateral X‑ray of both heels taken together. It images the calcaneus and subtalar joint to assess trauma, suspected calcaneal fractures, chronic heel pain, bone spurs or infection. The exam is quick with low radiation; pregnancy precautions apply. CT or MRI may be needed for complex fractures or soft‑tissue evaluation.

For a calcaneus lateral X‑ray, the patient lies on the unaffected side with the affected heel against the image receptor. Flex the knee and position the ankle in true lateral (malleoli superimposed) with the foot dorsiflexed to 90°. Center the beam horizontally to the calcaneus (about the subtalar joint, ~1 cm distal to the medial malleolus) to include the entire calcaneus and subtalar joint.

The lateral aspect of the heel is the outer side of the posterior foot, away from the midline. It includes the lateral surface of the calcaneus, peroneal tendon sheath, lateral plantar fascia, and nearby nerves and bursae. This region contributes to foot stability, weight-bearing and shock absorption and is commonly involved in conditions such as peroneal tendinopathy, lateral calcaneal bursitis, and lateral plantar nerve irritation.

A heel X‑ray shows the bony anatomy of the calcaneus and nearby joints, detecting fractures (including stress and calcaneal fractures), bone spurs, arthritis, infections or tumors, bony alignment and calcifications such as plantar‑fascia spur. It can reveal foreign bodies and guide treatment, but has limited sensitivity for very early stress fractures and soft‑tissue injuries — MRI or CT may be needed for more detail.

A lateral view on an X‑ray is a side-to-side image taken at 90° to the front/back projection, showing structures’ depth and spatial relationships. It reduces overlap of tissues, helping detect fractures, alignment problems, fluid levels, air and bone lesions. Often obtained with frontal (AP/PA) views for full assessment, the patient stands or lies with the affected side against the detector.