Calcaneal Stress Fractures

Calcaneal bone refers to the bigger heel bone, which is located at the back of the foot. The main function of calcaneus bone is to maintain the vertical posture and enable one to walk properly. It supports the total body weight of the individual and lateral column of the foot. Speaking about the anatomy of calcaneus, the outer layer comprises a tough cortical bone that encloses a soft cancellous bone inside. This specific structure makes the calcaneus bone prone to injuries. An overuse of calcaneus bone may lead to calcaneal stress fractures.

Calcaneal Stress Fractures: Causes and Symptoms

Calcaneal stress fractures are common among people who participate in activities that involve recurrent use of the heel bone, such as marching, jumping, climbing and dancing. Hence, military persons, dancers, rock climbers, roofers and other athletes are at a higher risk of calcaneal stress fractures than others. A fall from a height of about 6 feet or more often results in calcaneal stress fracture. Another common cause of stress fractures of the calcaneus bone is due to sudden injury and / or accidents.

The severity of calcaneal stress fracture depends upon three factors, namely, the position of the bone during the fracture, the orientation of the force that causes the fracture and the strength of the bone. Based on the severity of swelling within the bones, calcaneal stress fracture is categorized under various scales. Some of the noticeable symptoms of calcaneal stress fractures include swelling and inflammation in the heel area, inability to withstand weight by the heel and at times, bruising of the calcaneus and surrounding portion. Usually, heel pain worsens on walking and lifting weights, and continues to remain for a longer period.

Calcaneal Stress Fractures: Diagnosis and Treatment

At times, calcaneal stress fractures remain undiagnosed even though there is characteristic heel pain. Initial radiographic results of the heel portion often show normal structure. Diagnosis of calcaneal stress fractures can be confirmed by conducting repeated radiographic examinations after every 4 weeks. The orthopedist may also conduct imaging tests such as x-rays, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) scans from different angles in order to identify the severity of the fracture.

Calcaneal stress fractures are more difficult to treat in comparison to other tarsal bone fractures. In fact, it is one of the most challenging cases in orthopedics. However, if left untreated, the symptoms of calcaneal stress fractures may persist for more than 6 months. Also it may result in deformity of the gait. If an individual is diagnosed with calcaneal stress fracture, the most effective pain management and healing procedure is to rest for at least 6 - 8 weeks. During this period, the patient can make use of crutches for standing, walking and other locomotive activities. Other treatment and / or management options of calcaneal stress fractures may vary depending upon the severity and type of fracture.

In the recovery methods for severe undisplaced calcaneal stress fracture, the orthopedist may prescribe application of a plaster cast in order to keep the heel bones in place. Such a treatment method should be continued until radiographic results show improvements in the bone healing process. For displaced calcaneal stress fractures, closed reduction for manipulating the fractured bone may be considered for treatment of the condition. If the patient is not responsive to this method, the physician may conduct a surgical procedure and /or open reduction.