Heel Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A heel fracture is a break in the calcaneus, the large bone at the back of the foot that forms the heel. These fractures can result from a high-impact injury, such as a fall from a height, a car accident, or a forceful landing during sports. Because the calcaneus plays a major role in walking and weight-bearing, injuries to this area can significantly affect mobility.
Heel fractures may involve the main body of the bone, the bony prominence (tuberosity), or the joints where the heel connects with other foot bones. The fracture may be nondisplaced, where the bone remains in place, or displaced, where fragments shift out of alignment. Some fractures extend into the joint surface (intraarticular), which can complicate treatment and recovery.
Symptoms typically include sudden heel pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the affected foot. In more severe cases, the heel may appear widened or deformed. Diagnosis is made using X-rays or CT scans to evaluate the extent and location of the fracture.
Treatment depends on the type of fracture. Nondisplaced fractures may be managed with rest, elevation, casting, or a walking boot. Displaced or joint-involved fractures often require surgery to realign and stabilize the bone using screws or plates. Recovery may take several months, and physical therapy is often needed to restore strength and range of motion.
With proper treatment and follow-up care, many patients recover well from a heel fracture, though severe cases may carry a higher risk of long-term stiffness or arthritis.
