Place the patient seated or standing with the hand on the image receptor, turning the hand so the affected finger lies in a true lateral—its lateral surface against the receptor—with adjacent fingers flexed out of the field. Superimpose the phalangeal joints; center the beam perpendicular to the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Include distal phalanx through metacarpal head and use gentle immobilization.

In anatomical position (palms facing forward), the thumb is the most lateral digit and the little finger is the most medial. More generally, the radial side (thumb and index finger) of the hand is considered lateral, whereas the ulnar side (ring and little finger) is medial. The middle finger lies at the midline of the hand.

Standard finger X‑rays are taken in three views — PA (or AP), lateral and oblique — to fully assess bone alignment, fractures, displacement and joint involvement. Some minor injuries may be imaged with two views, while complex trauma or suspected small‑fragment injuries can require extra or specialized projections. Clinicians choose views based on the injury and clinical need.

A lateral view X‑ray is a side‑on radiographic image taken with the patient’s side against the detector so the X‑ray beam passes from one side of the body to the other. It provides depth and profile information not seen on front‑to‑back (AP/PA) views, helping localize lesions, assess alignment, detect fluid levels, fractures, and soft‑tissue abnormalities in chest, spine, skull, and joints.

A lateral X‑ray is a side‑view radiograph, not inherently left or right. It can be a left lateral (patient’s left side nearest the detector) or a right lateral (patient’s right side nearest the detector). Reports and images should specify which side; if not, check the image’s side marker or ask the radiographer to confirm.

The lateral position is when a person lies on their side, either left or right, with knees slightly flexed and a pillow between legs for alignment. It improves breathing and drainage, reduces aspiration risk, and relieves pressure on the back and sacrum. Commonly used in recovery, during seizures, obstetric care and certain procedures to enhance comfort and safety.