If you experience pain and swelling in your left heel after an injury, you may have a nondisplaced avulsion fracture of the tuberosity of your calcaneus. This means that a small piece of bone has been pulled away from the heel bone by a tendon or ligament, but the bone has not moved out of place. This type of fracture is common among athletes who participate in sports that require jumping and sudden stops, such as basketball and soccer.
Symptoms of a nondisplaced avulsion fracture of the tuberosity of the left calcaneus may include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may order an X-ray or MRI to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the fracture.
Treatment for a nondisplaced avulsion fracture of the tuberosity of the left calcaneus may include:
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to reattach the bone fragment to the heel bone. Your doctor will determine the best course of treatment based on the severity of your fracture and your individual needs.
If you have a nondisplaced avulsion fracture of the tuberosity of your left calcaneus, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions for treatment and rest. With proper care, most people can expect to fully recover from this type of injury within a few weeks to a few months.