Calcaneal Stress Fractures

What is a calcaneal stress fracture? The calcaneus bone is the big heel bone at the back of the foot. Due to overuse a stress fracture can occur in the bone. It is common for soldiers who have to do a lot of marching or road runners. What are the symptoms? Insidious, gradual onset heel pain. Pain is made worse by weight bearing activities. Pain is reproduced by squeezing the back of the heel from both sides. 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). It is also possible that a stress fracture will not appear on an X-ray at all. If a stress fracture is suspected then you should rest completely for 6-8 weeks. Crutches can be helpful. What can the athlete do about it? See a sports Doctor for advice. Rest for 6 to 8 weeks if a stress fracture is suspected. Use crutches if necessary. Use a heel pad to protect the heel and allow it to rest. What a Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor can do: X-ray the bone. Do a bone scan. Apply a plaster cast for 2 - 6 weeks if pain is severe. 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.   The information contained on this site is purely a source of information and can at no time replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice before embarking on any form of self treatment. Neither the content or nor any other service provided through mybesttennis.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking professional advice because of something seen on mybesttennis.com.