Lateral Sacral Crest

Description

Calcaneus anatomy dominates this lateral view, with the calcaneal tuberosity forming the broad posterior projection that anchors the heel. Superior to the tuberosity, the posterior talar articular facet occupies the upper surface for the subtalar joint, while the anterior portion of the bone extends toward the calcaneocuboid articulation. Laterally, the peroneal (fibular) trochlea stands out as a bony ridge on the lateral wall, positioned distal to the posterior facet and proximal to the plantar surface where the long plantar ligament spans toward the cuboid. Orientation is unambiguous. The posterior surface faces the Achilles insertion. Clinically, the calcaneal tuberosity is the traction and impact interface for two common pain generators: insertional Achilles tendinopathy at the posterosuperior calcaneus and plantar fasciitis at the medial process of the tuber calcanei, where an enthesophyte (heel spur) may form. A fixed lateral perspective also supports teaching of calcaneal fracture morphology by emphasizing the relationship between the posterior facet and the tuberosity, a pattern central to intra-articular fractures that collapse the subtalar surface and shorten the hindfoot. Surface contours are easy to read, so bony landmarks used in lateral hindfoot approaches and peroneal tendon groove orientation can be identified without distraction. Use this illustration for lower-limb osteology labs, podiatry and orthopaedic teaching files, and publisher-ready figures discussing Achilles insertion pathology, plantar fascia enthesis, or calcaneal fracture classification. It also fits well in patient-education handouts that explain why heel pain localizes to the posterior calcaneus or plantar tuberosity. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.