Lateral (side‑view) calcaneus X‑ray: patient lies on the affected side (lateral recumbent) with the knee slightly flexed and the foot in a true lateral — ankle dorsiflexed to about 90°. Place the detector beside the calcaneus and center the X‑ray beam perpendicular to the receptor roughly 1 cm distal to the medial malleolus (through the subtalar region). Include the calcaneus, subtalar joint and distal tibia/fibula.

AP (anteroposterior) and lateral views are standard X‑ray projections. AP means the X‑ray beam passes from front to back, producing a frontal image useful when patients can’t stand. The lateral view is taken from the side, perpendicular to the AP, showing depth and spatial relationships. Together they help detect fractures, displacements, lung or spinal pathology and clarify overlapping structures for diagnosis.

A lateral (lat) view is an X‑ray taken from the side, with the patient’s side against the detector and the X‑ray beam passing laterally. It provides depth information and clearer visualization of structures overlapped on frontal films—commonly used for chest, spine, skull, and extremities—to localize lesions, assess alignment, and detect fluid levels, fractures, or soft‑tissue abnormalities.

Primary X‑ray views for heel pain are weight‑bearing lateral and axial (Harris or plantodorsal) views of the calcaneus. The lateral view assesses calcaneal alignment, posterior facet and heel spurs; the axial/plantodorsal view visualizes the posterior tuberosity and plantar spurs. AP or oblique foot views may be added for midfoot pathology or suspected fractures; MRI/CT if radiographs are inconclusive.

The lateral calcaneus is the outer side of the calcaneus (heel bone). It forms the external wall of the heel and helps shape the subtalar and calcaneocuboid joint surfaces. It provides attachment for the calcaneofibular ligament and peroneal tendons, transmits weight during gait, and is a common site for fractures, bursitis and tendon irritation.

Position the patient in a true lateral (standing, seated, or decubitus) with the side of interest against the image receptor; align the sagittal plane parallel to the receptor so shoulders and hips are superimposed. Immobilize and instruct breath‑hold for chest/abdomen exams. Direct the central ray perpendicular to the receptor at the appropriate level (e.g., mid‑thorax for chest). Use proper exposure settings, shielding, place a side marker and collimate.