The Musculoskeletal System
Lesson 2: Diseases and Disorders of the Feet
Section I: Skeletal and Muscular Structure of the Feet
2-8
2-8. RETROCALCANEAL SPACE PAIN
This pain occurs in the heel and is caused by a fracture of the posterior lateral tubercle of the talus. The result is injury to the plantar flexion. Those who walk on their toes have developed elongated talar tubercles and are most apt to experience this type of injury.
a. Signs/Symptoms of Retrocalcaneal Space Pain. Included are the following:
(1) Swelling behind the ankle at the retrocalcaneal space between the Achilles tendon and the calcaneus.
(2) Pain that increases on dorsiflexion (turning the foot and toes upward).
b. Treatment for Retrocalcaneal Space Pain. First, have lateral X-rays of the ankle taken to aid in diagnosis. Then, immobilize the foot in a plaster cast for four to six weeks. Corticosteroids and anesthetic combinations may be given for pain. Use surgical excision if conservative therapy is not effective.
