Calcaneus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Heel bone)

Gray's anatomy image 268
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Gray's anatomy image 269
Calcaneus Fracture
Left Calcaneus animation03
Ospied-en
Calcaneus
Calcaneus
   Animation of the calcaneus bone
Animation of the calcaneus bone
Latin Calcaneus
Articulations Talus bone, Cuboid bone


The calcaneus or heel bone is a large bone that forms the foundation of the rear part of the foot. The calcaneus connects with the talus bone and the cuboid bone. The connection between the talus and calcaneus forms the subtalar joint, which is essential for the normal function of the foot.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The calcaneus is the largest of the tarsal bones in the foot. It is situated at the lower and back part of the foot, forming the heel. The bone has several important features, including the calcaneal tuberosity, which is the large, posterior, weight-bearing prominence, and the sustentaculum tali, a horizontal shelf that projects from the medial side of the bone.

Articulations[edit | edit source]

The calcaneus articulates with two bones:

Function[edit | edit source]

The calcaneus serves as the foundation for the rear part of the foot. It plays a crucial role in normal foot function, including:

  • Supporting the weight of the body when standing and during movement.
  • Acting as a lever arm for the Achilles tendon, which attaches to the posterior surface of the calcaneus.
  • Facilitating the movement of the foot through its articulations with the talus and cuboid bones.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Injuries to the calcaneus can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Common injuries include:

Related pages[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]




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