What is the recovery period for heel bone fracture?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have fractured both my heel bones during a jump from a six feet gate during vacations. Now I am back to my workplace. As per the doctor, there is no need for the surgery and the conservative treatment will work. Both the heels are in the cast now for past one month and there is only very little pain. Can you please let me know after seeing the X-rays taken this month when I should be able to put weight and how long it takes full recovery. I am 33 years old. I am currently taking Vitamin D and Calcium supplements.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Looking at the X-ray (attachment removed to protect patient identity) lateral view of both heels taken nearly six weeks from the injury there is still a gap visible at the fracture site and this will mean that the fracture is not fully united. More importantly, there should be a CT (computed tomography) scan of the heels to properly assess the fracture and this will confirm the healing process also.

As conservative treatment was chosen I will recommend that you start to weight bear in the plaster at eight weeks. Do this for two weeks and if you have no pain then have the cast removed. I will like to point out that there will be a long rehabilitation process involved and the shape of the heel and walking will be permanently affected.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

CT scan can be done now or anytime (the plaster should not be a problem). The side where the joint (that is the subtalar joint) is affected is the one that is going to give you more problem. Best assessed via a CT scan. Walking will be affected but the pain usually improves over the period of two years. Sitting job is not a problem and you can join work if your employer allows you to do so. You will need a wheelchair.