Attorneys
Last Updated: 6/22/2023
A calcaneus fracture is a fracture of the heel bone. The fracture can be extremely painful, and may lead to long-term complications for the patient. One common cause of a calcaneus fracture is a car accident. Trauma to the feet can lead to these fractures, as well as other fractures, sprains, or strains in the foot and ankle area.
Symptoms of a Calcaneus Fracture
The most common symptoms of a calcaneus fracture, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, are listed below.
- Heel deformity
- Pain
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Inability to put weight on the heel
Fractures may be stable fractures, displaced fractures, open fractures, closed fractures, and comminuted fractures. Of these, comminuted fractures are often considered the most serious, as they are very unstable and are characterized by the bone shattering into three or more pieces.
Treatment Options for Calcaneus Fractures
The treatment applied to a calcaneus fracture is dependent upon the type and severity of the fracture. When the fracture is not severe, nonsurgical treatment options may be considered. Nonsurgical options include casting or other forms of immobilization, as well as physical therapy and the use of pain medications.
When a calcaneus fracture is severe, though, surgery may be necessary. There are two primary types of surgery used to correct a calcaneus fracture: open reduction and internal fixation, and percutaneous screw fixation surgery. Both require rehabilitation therapy following surgery.
Complications from a Calcaneus Fracture
Unfortunately, calcaneus fractures don’t always heal as they should, and in some cases further complications may arise. Some complications of a calcaneus fracture, according to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society are complications related to surgery listed below.
- Infection
- Damage to nerve and blood vessels
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Complications in skin healing
- Nerve stretch
- Chronic pain
- Joint stiffness
- Tendon irritation
- Nerve irritation
Contact an Attorney for Legal Help after a Car Accident in Iowa
Most car accidents are caused by preventable driver errors. If you’ve been in a car accident that occurred because another driver made an error, and if you’ve sustained a calcaneus fracture injury as a result, speak with an attorney about your financial recovery options.
At Walker, Billingsley & Bair, our car accident attorneys can help you file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and even pain and suffering damages related to your accident and calcaneus fracture. To speak with an attorney, get in touch with us at (888) 435-9886 or via our online contact form.
