X-Ray Calcaneus (Right) (LAT View) Test

The ankle and foot are made up of 33 joints, 26 bones, and more than 100 tendons. The heel is one of the largest bones in the foot. You might experience a heel pain if you injure or heel or overuse your heel. The result of the pain can range from mild to disabling. If you are suffering from severe heel pain, then the doctor may order Calcaneus X-ray to diagnose the cause. Calcaneus lateral view x-ray is a part of the two view calcaneus series. The projection is used to assess the talocalcaneal, talonavicular, talocrural and calcaneus joint. During the scanning procedure, a beam of radiation is sent through the heel and all the possible images are recorded on the screen.

An X-ray right calcaneus does not require any special preparation before the test. You also do not need to fast or restrict foods or fluids prior to the calcaneus x-ray. You are asked by the doctor to removes your clothes and change into a gown prior the test. You are also asked to remove all the metal related items like keychain, jewelry, ring or other items prior the test because they might interfere with the result. You are also asked to cover the anatomy that is not being examined with a lead apron. You also need to inform the doctor if you are or might be pregnant.

An X-ray of the right calcaneus in lateral view is helpful in finding the cause of signs and symptoms of the pain. Some common causes of the pain are fracture, bursitis, sprains and strains, plantar fasciitis, reactive arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and many more. The test is very useful in finding out the reason if you are suffering from a severe pain or if the pain starts suddenly. The test is also used if you have a redness in your heel or swelling in your heel. The test is also useful in finding you’re the reason behind the pain if you are not able to walk.

After entering the X-ray room you are asked to lie in a lateral recumbent position on the table. The lateral aspect of the right ankle joint and the knee should be in contact with the table. The leg can be straight or in a bent position and the foot should be in dorsiflexion. The left leg should be placed behind the injured limb which will help in avoiding over rotation. The radiologist or the technician will examine the area while operating on the X-ray machine. All the possible images are taken from different angles. The whole examination procedure takes around 10-15 minutes.