Perform a weight-bearing foot X‑ray with the patient standing barefoot on the image receptor, evenly distributing weight on the affected foot. Obtain AP (or AP oblique) and lateral weight-bearing views, centering the beam at the base of the third metatarsal; AP often uses a 10–15° cephalic tube angle. Apply shielding, place side markers, immobilize as needed, and ask the patient to remain still during exposure.

Standard ankle X‑rays include AP, mortise and lateral views. The patient lies supine or sits with the knee extended and the ankle dorsiflexed about 90°. For the AP/mortise series the leg is internally rotated ~15–20° to open the mortise; the lateral view is obtained with the limb rolled onto its side, beam centered at the malleoli.

A long-standing X‑ray (full-length standing radiograph) is a weight-bearing X‑ray taken while the patient stands to capture an entire limb or the whole spine. It shows bone alignment, leg‑length differences and joint angles under load, useful for planning orthopedic surgery and assessing scoliosis or osteoarthritis. It gives more accurate alignment information than non‑weight‑bearing X‑rays.

A standing AP and lateral view are weight-bearing X‑ray projections taken with the patient upright. The AP (anteroposterior) view images structures front-to-back to assess joint spaces, alignment and deformity under load. The lateral view is a side projection showing sagittal alignment, bone relationships and soft‑tissue contours. Together they better evaluate osteoarthritis, instability, fractures and deformities than non–weight-bearing films.

Stand with feet about hip-width apart, toes pointing forward or slightly outward. Distribute weight evenly between heels and balls of both feet, keep knees soft (not locked), align hips over ankles, and engage your core to support the spine. Relax shoulders and keep head over your pelvis. Avoid leaning, excessive pronation or supination; shift weight or move periodically to reduce strain.

Common foot X‑ray types include AP (dorsoplantar), lateral, and oblique views to assess bones and joints; weight‑bearing (standing) views to evaluate alignment and arches; axial/plantodorsal views for the calcaneus; tangential or sesamoid views for sesamoid bones; and stress or comparative views to reveal ligament injuries or subtle fractures. Your clinician chooses views based on symptoms and suspected injury.