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Injury advice > Foot Injuries > Calcaneal Stress fracture

Calcaneal stress fracture

What is a calcaneal stress fracture?

The big heel bone at the back of the foot is called the calcaneus. Fractures can occur in the bone through excessive pounding. For example soldiers or road runners are prone to this injury.

 Heel spur

 

Symptoms of calcaneal stress fracture.

  • Heel pain sets in slowly and gradually.
  • Weight bearing on the heel makes the pain worse.
  • Squeezing the back of the heel from both sides causes the same pain as when doing normal exercise.

If stress fractures are suspected then you should rest completely for 6-8 weeks. Crutches can be helpful. Often an X-ray of the injured bone will not show any sign of fracture until the fracture has actually started to heal (2-3 weeks later).

How can the athlete treat stress fracturest?

  • Visit a sports injury doctor or specialist.
  • As above, rest for 6 to 8 weeks.
  • The use of heel pads will allow it to rest.

When the athlete does start back running they must ensure the muscles in the lower leg are stretched and supple. A gradual return to full training is important.

Useful Products:

  • Heel Pads - provide cushioning and shock absorption for the heel.

Please visit the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Calcaneal Stress Fractures and other foot injuries.