What are the sequelae of calcaneal fractures?
Disease description:
I suffered a calcaneal fracture recently and am now worried about possible sequelae. I still have some difficulty moving around. I heard that calcaneal fractures may result in complications such as pain and instability while walking. I would like to know what other sequelae might occur?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Calcaneal fracture is one of the common severe injuries of the foot, usually occurring during falls from height or traffic accidents. The treatment and recovery process for this type of fracture may be prolonged and often results in several complications, mainly including the following:
1. Subtalar arthritis: Poor fracture reduction may lead to abnormalities in the calcaneal joint surface, height, and width, resulting in gait abnormalities and heel pain.
2. Chronic pain: Even after the fracture has healed, some patients may still experience persistent foot pain, which may be related to nerve injury, arthritis, or incomplete healing.
3. Joint stiffness: Fractures and subsequent immobilization treatments may reduce the range of motion in the ankle and foot joints, leading to joint stiffness.
4. Arch collapse: Severe calcaneal fractures may damage the structure of the foot arch, leading to flat feet, which can affect walking function and overall lower limb biomechanics.
5. Post-traumatic arthritis: Joint surface damage after fracture may lead to post-traumatic arthritis, characterized by joint pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
