Digital X-rays may help evaluate fractures, arthritis, alignment, and other bone concerns during a foot or ankle visit.
A digital X-ray uses a small amount of ionizing radiation to create images of bones and joints. Having this equipment in the office may allow images to be taken during the same visit when the examination shows that an X-ray is appropriate.
Your podiatrist reviews the images together with your symptoms and physical examination. An X-ray can answer many questions about bone and alignment, but it does not show every tendon, ligament, nerve, cartilage, or early stress injury.
An X-ray may help evaluate:
The type and number of views depend on the clinical question. In some cases, standing images are used to show how the foot or ankle aligns while bearing weight.
A team member positions the foot or ankle for each image. You may be asked to stand, sit, or place the foot against the imaging surface. Taking an image is brief, although positioning an injured area can sometimes be uncomfortable. Tell the team if you cannot safely hold a position.
Tell the team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant. Also mention where the pain is strongest, when the injury occurred, and whether you have prior images for comparison.
A normal X-ray does not rule out every cause of pain. Depending on the examination and how symptoms change, the next step may be observation, repeat imaging, ultrasound, MRI, nerve testing, circulation testing, or another evaluation.
The podiatrist can often review office images during the visit, but timing can vary. Some findings may need comparison, an additional view, or another interpretation.
A sprain involves ligaments, which are not usually seen directly on a standard X-ray. Imaging may still be used to look for a fracture or alignment problem after an injury.
No. Imaging is recommended when it can help answer a specific question or change the treatment plan.
Learn more about fractures and trauma, stress fractures, and foot and ankle arthritis.
Signature Foot and Ankle provides care in Boynton Beach and Loxahatchee. Call 561 203 9285 or request an appointment online.
