Bone
Calcaneus
Large tarsal bone forming the heel beneath the talus
High-yield
The medial sustentaculum tali is a shelf supporting part of the talus. Behind it, the large heel projection contributes to weight support and the lever used during ankle plantarflexion.
Overview
The calcaneus forms the heel and connects the hindfoot to the cuboid in front. It receives load through the talus and provides the attachment through which the Achilles tendon applies calf-muscle force to the foot.
Reference facts
- Bone type
- Short bone of the tarsus; the largest tarsal
- Key landmarks
- Posterior calcaneal tuberosity; medial sustentaculum tali; lateral fibular trochlea (peroneal tubercle)
- Articulations
- Talus above at talocalcaneal articulations and cuboid in front at the calcaneocuboid joint
Clinical correlation
A forceful landing on the feet can fracture the calcaneus and also injure the spine or other bones. Clinicians assess the wider injury pattern; a heel fracture alone does not dictate one identical imaging plan for every patient.
Frequently asked questions
What type of bone is the calcaneus?
Short bone of the tarsus; the largest tarsal.
What does the calcaneus articulate with?
The calcaneus articulates with the talus above at talocalcaneal articulations and cuboid in front at the calcaneocuboid joint.
What are the key landmarks of the calcaneus?
Posterior calcaneal tuberosity; medial sustentaculum tali; lateral fibular trochlea (peroneal tubercle).