HomeAnswersFitness ExpertfracturesI have fractured both of my heel bones. Please review.

How much time will it take to recover from heel bone fracture?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Atul Prakash

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At May 11, 2018
Reviewed AtFebruary 16, 2024

Patient's Query

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.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

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.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Please tell me when can I go for next X-ray and CT scan? As you mentioned the walking will be permanently affected does that mean I will not be able to walk normally with supporting aids? Will five to six months of the period be enough to get back to complete normal life activities? Does little pain and pins sometimes is normal and please which leg is less fracture? Can I join the office work now and does sitting seven to eight hours cause an issue?

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

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.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Atul Prakash
Dr. Atul Prakash

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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