An ankle AP and lateral X‑ray are two standard radiographic views—anteroposterior (AP) and lateral—used to visualize the ankle joint, including tibia, fibula, talus, joint spaces, and surrounding bone alignment. They detect fractures, dislocations, arthritis and foreign bodies, and assess joint congruity after injury. The exam is quick, noninvasive, and uses low-dose radiation; additional views or CT may follow if needed.

AP (anteroposterior) view is a front-to-back radiograph where the X‑ray beam enters the anterior body and exits posteriorly; often used when patients cannot stand and may slightly magnify structures like the heart. Lateral view is a side-to-side radiograph with the beam passing laterally, offering depth and profile information to localize lesions, assess alignment, effusions, or collapse.

The lateral view of the ankle is a radiographic projection taken with the limb positioned so the medial and lateral malleoli are superimposed, yielding a true side image. It visualizes the distal tibia and fibula, talus, calcaneus, subtalar and tibiotalar joint spaces. It’s used to identify fractures, dislocations, joint incongruity and to assess alignment or talar/calcaneal injuries.

Position the patient supine or seated with the leg extended and the ankle dorsiflexed to 90°. Place the ankle centered on the image receptor with the plantar surface vertical and tibia/fibula parallel to the receptor. Direct the central ray perpendicular to the ankle joint at the level of the medial malleolus. Include distal tibia/fibula and talus, collimate and shield appropriately; use standard SID (~100 cm).

Ankle AP and lateral X‑rays are non‑invasive and not inherently painful. Discomfort can occur when moving or placing weight on an injured, swollen, or fractured ankle for positioning. Technicians will minimize pain by supporting the limb, using alternative positions, or taking non–weight‑bearing views. Tell staff about severe pain so they can modify positioning or immobilize the ankle during imaging.

"Lat" stands for "lateral" — an X‑ray taken from the side. A lateral view shows anatomy in profile, providing depth and revealing relationships not seen on front‑to‑back (AP/PA) images. It helps localize lesions, assess alignment, and evaluate areas like the chest, spine, elbow, or knee. Charts may note left or right lateral (LLAT/RLAT) to indicate side.