Calcaneus fracture
Contents
Background
- Associated injuries are common
Types
- Intra-articular (75%)
- Sclerotic line may be only evidence of impacted fracture
- Extra-articular (25%)
- Anterior process fracture is most common
Clinical Features
- Foot pain after trauma - often from axial load such as fall from height or motor vehicle accident
Differential Diagnosis
Foot and Toe Fractures
Hindfoot
Midfoot
Forefoot
Evaluation
- Plain X-ray imaging
- Decreased Boehler's angle (<25') may be only sign of fracture (compare with opposite side)
Treatment & Disposition
Intra-articular fracture
- Immobilization with posterior ankle splint
- Non-weight bearing
- Elevation (very important - fracture has high rate of severe swelling)
- Ortho consult
Extra-articular fracture
- Immobilization with posterior ankle splint
- Close ortho follow up
See Also
Video