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Calcaneal Stress Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment- Heel Pad, Plaster Cast, Rehab

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The calcaneus is also known as the heel bone, which is present in the back of foot. Overuse or repetitive strain to this bone results in a stress fracture. It is commonly seen in those individuals who are involved in activities which put continuous pressure on the heel bone such as soldiers, who have to march a lot etc. Acute fractures of the calcaneus bone occurs from a sudden impact or force to the heel, e.g. falling from a height and landing on the heel.

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Calcaneal Stress Fracture
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Causes of Calcaneal Stress Fracture

  • Increased weight bearing e.g. marching and running.
  • A recent increase or change in training regime.
  • Risk Factors Include: Bad foot posture, weakness of the muscles, poor flexibility, stiffness in the ankle joint, ill-fitting footwear and excessive or inappropriate training especially on hard or rough surfaces.

Causes of Calcaneal Stress Fracture

Signs and Symptoms of Calcaneal Stress Fracture

  • Pain in the heel which gradually intensifies.
  • Increasing pain upon weight bearing.
  • Pain upon pressing the back part of heel from both sides.
  • X-ray may not reveal a fracture until the actual healing process of the fracture has started. Stress fracture may not be visible on x-ray at all. MRI or bone scan can be done for further confirmation of diagnosis.

Treatment of Calcaneal Stress Fracture

  • Patient should seek consultation from a sports specialist immediately.
  • In case of a stress fracture, rest should be taken for 6 to 8 weeks. Complete weight-bearing should be avoided and crutches can be used for support.
  • Heel pad can be used for protection of the heel.
  • For severe pain, a plaster cast should be applied for 2 to 6 weeks.
  • Patient should start a rehab program consisting of stretching and strengthening exercises to increase mobility and flexibility of the muscles of lower leg.
  • Deep tissue massage can be done by a professional.
  • Electrotherapy such as ultrasound is also beneficial.
  • Athlete should return to the training regime gradually.
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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:August 7, 2019

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