the lower limb radiograph is an extremely common request with trauma and the practising radiographer requires familiarity with normal and abnormal appearances. normal variations in anatomy and the variable ossification centres often lead to some confusion. recognition of a haemarthrosis at the knee is clinically very useful and especially with tibial plateau fractures. suggestions for recognition of calcaneal fractures (boehler's angle) and midfoot/forefoot dislocations are illustrated.