X-ray of the foot is the first of the imaging tests that the doctor orders in case of injury or suspected diseases of this part of the body. For a few minutes of the examination, an accurate image of the bony tissues of the foot is obtained. Read more about x-ray of the foot.
X-ray of the foot - course and indications for the examination
Published Oct. 31, 2023 10:43
What is an x-ray of the foot?
X-ray examination, or X-ray or customarily x-ray, is one of the basic imaging tests. It uses X-rays to visualize the tissues of the body area being examined. This is because X-rays penetrate different anatomical structures to different degrees. In the case of bone tissue, which is dense, the X-rays are strongly absorbed. Thus, during an X-ray of the foot (https://www.luxmed-diagnostyka.pl/dla-pacjentow/oferta/rtg) an accurate picture is obtained of the bones that build it, viz:
- toe bones,
- heel bone,
- metatarsal bones,
- scaphoid bone,
- wedge bone,
- ankle bone.
How does the x-ray of the foot proceed?
X-ray examination of the foot takes a few minutes. It is carried out in the X-ray examination room, where there is a special place to prepare for the examination. There you will be asked to remove shoes, socks or other clothing that covers the foot. You should not move during the examination so that the images do not come out blurry and unreadable. The examination is performed in a sitting or lying position. Usually a lateral and anterior-posterior photograph is taken. If necessary, the diagnosis will be expanded with additional x-rays of the foot, such as in oblique projection or under load (standing).
Is it necessary to prepare for an x-ray of the foot?
X-ray examination of the foot does not involve any special preparation for you. Before the examination you can eat and drink and take your daily medications without fear. You can make an appointment for the examination at any time. The only thing you should remember is to leave metal items in the checkroom, e.g. glasses, jewelry, wallet, phone, trouser belt. Also, make sure you are dressed comfortably - shoes that you can take off quickly, and clothes that won't cover your foot. If you have medical records for this part of your body, bring them with you to the examination. It will allow the specialist to learn more about your problem.
What are the indications for an x-ray of the foot?
X-ray examination of the foot has a wide range of applications. Based on it, the specialist is able to diagnose cracks and fractures of bone tissue in the foot, as well as abnormalities in the adjacent ankle joint. The most common indication for an X-ray of the foot is the diagnosis of post-traumatic lesions, hallux valgus and degenerative changes.
Symptoms that should prompt this examination are primarily: acute and chronic pain, swelling, redness and bruising, hematomas, abnormalities in the joints of the foot, the likelihood of the presence of inflammation, visible changes in the foot.
X-ray examination of the foot has not only diagnostic significance - it allows to assess the type and extent of the problem, and on the basis of this to plan the appropriate treatment. X-rays of the foot are often performed during or at the end of therapy to assess its effectiveness.
