What Causes Swelling Of Foot, Ankle And Heel With Pain?

Posted on Mon, 23 Jun 2014

Question: My husband injured his heel two years ago. He jumped out of a swing playing with our children at the park and fractured it in 4 different places. They recommended surgery at the time however would not perform the surgery in a timely manner and did not instill much optimism in his recovery. Because of this he simply casted the heel and walked in a walking boot. The doctor cleared him and said he was good enough to go back to work. Two years later he still has much trouble walking or standing for long periods. My husband works as a mechanic and is on his feet for long periods as a result his foot, heel and ankle will often swell to twice the normal size and he often walks with much pain and a limp. What options would there be for my husband at this stage of his recovery?

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Send the x-ray picture; surgery may be the option

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for posting
After carefully going through your husband's suffering, I need to see the x-ray picture (latest) if possible to give my suggestion.
This usually happens with unreduced bone fragment into their normal anatomical position. This leads to arthritis with resultant pain and swelling. Do not lose hope. This can be made pain free by arthodesis that is the calcaneus bone (heel bone) may be fused to the bone above the heel and this surgical procedure should allow a stable foot for walking.
Meanwhile device (arch support) will help manage the pain and swelling.

Hope this information suffices. I shall be glad to answer any further query.
Take care
Dr.chugh, Orthopaedic surgeon

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar