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Conditions of the calcaneus in skeletally immature patients

Susan N Ishikawa1

  • 1University of Tennessee-Campbell Clinic, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Memphis, TN 38104, USA. sueish@pol.net

Foot and Ankle Clinics
|August 6, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Most pediatric calcaneus (heel bone) conditions, like apophysitis and fractures, are successfully treated nonoperatively. Surgery is reserved for symptomatic bone cysts or osteomyelitis requiring prompt intervention to avoid complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Podiatry
  • Pediatric Bone Health

Background:

  • The calcaneus, or heel bone, is susceptible to various conditions in children.
  • Understanding treatment paradigms for pediatric calcaneal pathologies is crucial for optimal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the management strategies for common calcaneal conditions in pediatric patients.
  • To differentiate between conditions requiring conservative versus surgical intervention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on pediatric calcaneal conditions.
  • Analysis of treatment outcomes for nonoperative and operative approaches.

Main Results:

  • Nonoperative management is effective for most calcaneal apophysitis and fractures in children.
  • Surgical intervention for calcaneal bone cysts is indicated only when symptomatic or fracture-risk is high.
  • Prompt recognition and treatment of calcaneal osteomyelitis are essential to prevent severe sequelae.

Conclusions:

  • Conservative treatment is the mainstay for many pediatric calcaneal issues.
  • Judicious surgical consideration is necessary for specific calcaneal bone pathologies.
  • Early diagnosis and management of calcaneal osteomyelitis are critical in pediatric care.

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