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.
Symptoms of a stress fracture in the calcaneus include heel pain which sets in slowly and gradually. Pain increases with weight bearing and squeezing the back of the heel from both sides causes the same pain as experienced on weight bearing.
Treatment
If stress fractures are suspected then you should see medical attention to confirm the diagnosis. Although 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). Rest completely for 6-8 weeks. Crutches can be helpful to avoid or reduce weight bearing. When the bone has healed you can gradually return to sport, but be aware that doing too much too soon can cause the stress fracture to return!
Recommended products
Heel pads can help to reduce the stress on the heel bone and allow the bone to heal. These are recommended after an initial period of non weight bearing. Cold packs may also help to reduce pain.
Please visit the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Calcaneal Stress Fractures and other foot injuries.
