The axial (Harris-Beath or plantodorsal) view of the calcaneus is an X-ray taken with the beam directed cephalad through the heel to project the calcaneal tuberosity, posterior facet, sustentaculum tali, calcaneal body and subtalar joint. It evaluates calcaneal fractures, heel width, Bohler’s angle and spurs. Typically obtained with the foot dorsiflexed and the beam angled about 35–45° to the foot’s long axis.

The standard X‑ray views for heel pain are a true lateral and an axial (Harris/Beath) calcaneal view, often performed weight‑bearing when plantar fasciitis or alignment issues are suspected. These views assess fractures, calcaneal spurs, and heel alignment; additional foot AP/oblique views or CT/MRI may be obtained if X‑rays are inconclusive or for complex injuries.

For the Harris axial (Harris–Beath) view of the calcaneus, position the patient prone with the foot dorsiflexed so the plantar surface is vertical and the heel over the cassette. Direct the central ray 40–45° cephalad from the plantar surface through the calcaneus onto the detector. Collimate to the heel, suspend movement, and include the subtalar joint to assess fractures and Bohler’s angle.

An X‑ray of the back of the heel (lateral calcaneal view) images the calcaneus and Achilles insertion. It detects fractures, bone spurs (Haglund deformity), calcifications at the Achilles insertion, apophysitis in adolescents and alignment or degenerative changes. X‑rays are quick and good for bone assessment but may miss soft‑tissue problems; MRI or ultrasound can be used if tendon injury is suspected.

Axial in X‑ray refers to images obtained along or around the body’s long axis, typically producing cross‑sectional (transverse) views. These axial projections slice the body head‑to‑toe, letting clinicians visualize internal structures without overlapping anatomy. Common in CT and some X‑ray projections, axial images help assess bones, organs, and pathological changes in a plane perpendicular to the body's vertical axis.

The four standard ankle X‑ray views are: anteroposterior (AP), mortise (AP with 15–20° internal rotation to open the ankle mortise and tibiofibular joint), lateral (true lateral to show talus, calcaneus and alignment), and oblique (typically 45° medial oblique to profile the fibula and joint). These views assess fractures, joint space, alignment and syndesmotic injury.