Dr. Abhinav Singhal is a highly skilled Orthopedic Surgeon in Ghaziabad with over 10 years of experience, specializing in joint arthroscopy, joint replacement, and complex trauma care.
The calcaneus (heel bone) is the largest tarsal bone and forms the foundation of the rearfoot. Fractures are often intra-articular (involving the subtalar joint).
Fall from height (landing on feet)
High-energy trauma (MVA)
Severe heel pain, swelling, bruising
Inability to walk or bear weight
Widened heel, flattened arch
X-rays: Look for Bohler’s angle
CT scan: Crucial for surgical planning
MRI if soft tissue or other bone involvement suspected
Non-displaced: Cast and non-weight bearing
Displaced intra-articular: ORIF surgery
Soft tissue swelling must subside before surgery
8–12 weeks non-weight bearing
High risk of post-traumatic arthritis, heel deformity, chronic pain
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries often present with immediate pain and swelling in the knee joint. Individuals may report a popping sensation at the time of injury and have difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg. Instability in the knee, particularly during activities that involve pivoting or sudden changes in direction, is a common symptom. Additionally, bruising around the knee and limited range of motion may be present.
ACL injuries typically occur due to sudden twisting or hyperextension of the knee joint, often during sports activities like soccer, basketball, or skiing. Direct impact to the knee, improper landing from a jump, or abrupt changes in direction can also cause ACL tears. Factors such as weak or imbalanced leg muscles, poor landing mechanics, and anatomical factors may increase the risk of ACL injuries.
The talus is a critical bone in the ankle that connects the leg to the foot and plays a key role in motion at the ankle and subtalar joints.
High-energy trauma (car accidents, falls from height)
Sports injuries
Severe ankle twisting
Deep ankle pain and swelling
Inability to bear weight
Bruising, deformity
Pain with ankle movement
X-rays: AP, lateral, and Canale views
CT scan: Often needed for precise fracture mapping
MRI: To assess vascularity (risk of AVN)
Non-displaced fractures: Immobilization in a cast, non-weight bearing
Displaced fractures: ORIF (Open Reduction Internal Fixation)
Risk of Avascular Necrosis (AVN) is high due to poor blood supply
6–12 weeks non-weight bearing
Long-term risk of arthritis, stiffness, AVN
These midfoot bones help transfer weight and maintain arch stability. Injuries here can affect foot mechanics significantly.
Direct trauma
Twisting injuries
Repetitive stress (navicular stress fracture common in athletes)
Midfoot pain/swelling
Difficulty walking
Tenderness over midfoot
Possible deformity (e.g. flattening of arch)
X-rays: May be subtle or missed
CT or MRI: More sensitive for small fractures or stress injuries
Non-displaced fractures: Casting and rest
Displaced or unstable fractures: ORIF
Stress fractures: Activity modification, immobilization, gradual return to sport
6–12 weeks depending on bone & severity
Risk of non-union or chronic midfoot pain if untreated
Post-traumatic arthritis (especially subtalar joint)
Chronic pain and swelling
Stiffness and reduced mobility
Avascular necrosis (especially talus)
Malunion or nonunion
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
F&Q'sNot initially. Most cases require strict non-weight bearing for 6–12 weeks.
Surgery is often needed for displaced fractures to restore joint congruity and foot alignment.
Usually 3–6 months, but up to a year for full function—especially after talus or calcaneus fractures.
Not very, but when they occur, they tend to be serious and high-impact injuries.
Yes, but only after rehabilitation, full healing, and clearance from your orthopedic surgeon. It may take 6–12 months.