Calcaneal fractures

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Calcaneal (heel bone) fractures often result from great force. Diagnosis is by x-rays and, if needed, CT. Treatment requires orthopedic consultation and includes casting and sometimes surgery.
(See also Overview of Fractures.)
Calcaneal fractures are serious but uncommon injuries; they account for only 1 to 2% of all fractures. However, if not diagnosed and treated promptly, they can result in long-term disability. Up to 10% of these fractures are missed at initial presentation in an emergency department.
Typically, these fractures result from a high-energy axial load to the foot (eg, a fall from a height onto the heels). Because these fractures require great force, they are often accompanied by other serious injuries; 10% of patients with a calcaneal fracture have a thoracolumbar compression fracture.
Stress fractures may also occur in the calcaneus, particularly in athletes, such as long-distance runners.
Calcaneal fractures may be intra-articular.