Heel Pain
The protrusion at the back of the foot is the heel. It is based on the calcaneus, or heel bone, which protrudes behind the articulation of the lower leg's bones.
Most common tarsal bone to be fractured
1% of all fractures
Typically occur because of axial loading.
Anatomy
Calcaneus bone is divided into three parts:
1.The hindfoot
2.The midfoot
3.The forefoot
Tarsal is made up of seven bones and this is the largest bone of calcaneus.
This bone is made up of hindfoot and midfoot.
It lies at the back of the foot in the hindfoot, below the three bones:
Tibia (Shinbone)
Fibula (smaller bone in the lower leg)
Talus (small foot bone that works as a hinge between the tibia and the fibula.
The subtalar joint is made up of the talus and the calcaneus. The subtalar joint, which permits the hindfoot to move side to side, is crucial for balance on uneven ground.
Description
Fractures of the calcaneus are infrequent. Only 2% of adult fractures are tarsal bone fractures, and only 50% of tarsal fractures are calcaneus fractures.
The heel bone may shorten and broaden after a fracture. A fracture frequently extends into the foot's subtalar joint. When this happens, the articular cartilage that covers the joint may sustain damage, leading to long-term consequences like arthritis, persistent discomfort, and loss of mobility.
Cause
The most frequent causes of calcaneus fractures are falls from great heights and car accidents.
A fracture can range in severity, but most are brought on by a strong impact. For instance, a simple ankle twist might cause the bone to break just once. However, the impact of a head-on auto crash might cause the bone to fracture (comminuted fracture).
Different processes can cause fractures that seem the same.
Example: When you fall and land on your feet, the weight of your body is put downward. This immediately forces the talus bone into the calcaneus.
If the heel strikes the floorboard during a car accident, the calcaneus will be forced up against the talus.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of calcaneus fractures include:
Pain
Swelling
Brushing
Heel deformity
Inability to put weight on the heel or walk
The discomfort from certain mild calcaneus fractures might not be severe enough to keep you from moving, but you might limp. This is so that your body weight can be supported by your Achilles tendon, which works through the calcaneus. However, if the damage has distorted your calcaneus, your muscle and tendon will not be able to provide enough force to support your weight. You'll walk differently and feel unsteady in your foot and ankle.
Tests
X-Ray
CT Scan
Physiotherapy Treatment
You may strengthen supporting muscles and increase the range of motion in your foot and ankle by performing certain exercises. Exercises are necessary for you to return to your daily activities, even if they are frequently uncomfortable at first and progress may be challenging.
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