Heel bone

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Heel Bone

The heel bone or calcaneus (pronounced: kal-KAY-nee-us) is the largest bone in the foot and forms the foundation of the rear part of the foot.

Etymology

The term "calcaneus" comes from the Latin word "calx" which means "heel".

Anatomy

The heel bone is situated at the back of the foot, below the ankle. It is responsible for supporting the weight of the body and for providing balance. The heel bone is connected to the tibia and fibula (the two bones of the lower leg) by the Achilles tendon, which allows for the movement of the foot.

Related Terms

  • Achilles tendon: A tough band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone.
  • Tibia: The inner and larger bone of the lower leg, between the knee and the ankle.
  • Fibula: The outer and smaller bone of the lower leg, between the knee and the ankle.
  • Ankle: The joint connecting the foot with the leg.

Pathology

Injuries to the heel bone can include fractures and heel spurs. A heel spur is a bony growth on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by strain on foot muscles and ligaments or repeated tearing of the membrane that covers the heel bone.

Treatment

Treatment for heel bone conditions can range from rest and physical therapy to surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

External links

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