The axial view of the calcaneus (plantodorsal or Harris view) is an X‑ray taken with the central beam angled cephalad through the heel (about 35–45° to the foot). It projects the calcaneal tuberosity, posterior facet, anterior process, sustentaculum tali and calcaneocuboid joint, helping detect calcaneal fractures, displacement and subtalar joint involvement.

A both-heel lateral view X‑ray is a radiographic study that captures side (lateral) images of both heels to evaluate the calcaneus, subtalar joint and adjacent bones. It helps detect fractures, dislocations, arthritis, bone spurs and alignment problems. Images are obtained with each foot positioned laterally against the detector (often supine or standing), providing clear profile views for trauma and chronic heel pain assessment.

The lateral position for a calcaneus X‑ray places the patient in lateral recumbency with the affected side down. The knee may be flexed and the foot dorsiflexed so the plantar surface is vertical and the calcaneus is true lateral against the image receptor. The central X‑ray beam is centered on the calcaneus/subtalar region, with support/immobilization to avoid rotation.

The lateral aspect of the heel is the outer side of the posterior foot over the lateral calcaneus. It includes the lateral calcaneal surface, surrounding fat pad, and nearby structures such as the calcaneocuboid joint, peroneal tendons, and cutaneous sural nerve branches. This area bears weight and is commonly affected by lateral heel pain from tendon injury, bursitis, or joint degeneration.

In X‑ray/CT, "axial" describes images taken along the body’s long axis or in the transverse (horizontal) plane, producing cross-sectional slices that separate head from feet. It refers to beam direction or image orientation—viewing structures from top-to-bottom (or bottom-to-top). Axial views help localize lesions, evaluate anatomy in cross section, and guide diagnosis and treatment planning.

Lateral (lat) view in X‑ray is a side‑on radiograph taken with the X‑ray beam passing from one side of the body to the other. It shows depth and separates overlapping structures, helping assess alignment, fractures, lung or pleural problems, spinal curvature, and soft‑tissue detail. It’s often obtained with frontal views to localize lesions and improve diagnostic accuracy.