What should be avoided when setting the tube tilt for an Lateral Foot X-ray?

When performing a lateral foot x-ray, having no tube tilt is crucial to avoid, as it can result in an unclear image and misrepresentation of the anatomical structures. A lateral view traditionally requires a specific angle of tube tilt to appropriately project the foot without distortion, capturing the bones and joint spaces clearly. If there is no tube tilt, the resulting image may lead to over- or under-exposure of certain areas, making diagnostic interpretation challenging.

A tube tilt of 10° is generally appropriate for lateral foot imaging, ensuring visualization of intertarsal joints and structures without significant distortion. Adjustments to 20° or 30° may result in unnecessary angulation that could obscure important details or lead to a misdiagnosis. Proper angulation, therefore, enhances the clarity and diagnostic value of the x-ray while avoiding techniques that may compromise image quality.