[Foot imaging]

Foot and ankle problems are frequent, daily pathologies. Nowadays, imaging is able to put in evidence the most part of these affections, in a simple, non traumatic way. A good clinical examination is of highest importance to guide the imaging technique. Well done simple X-rays in a standing position is the first mandatory step. Ultrasonography has revolutionized the study of the smooth parts of the foot: tendons, sprains, pathologies of plantar aponeurosis, hind-foot problems....It is therefore the first exam to ask for. Ultrasonography is enough to resolve a very important part of the superficial soft tissues pathologies. When this technique fails, whatever the reason, RMI is the best way to study soft tissues and bone marrow (stress fractures, small intraosseous lesions, osteonecrosis...). CTscan remains the best tool to study the hard part of the skeleton. Neither CTscan nor RMI can directly put in evidence the joint's cartilage with a high degree of precision. So, an arthrography remains mandatory to have a good study of the cartilage of the ankle.