Return to work after Calcaneal Fracture

A calcaneal fracture is a break in the heel bone. It is a relatively common injury, particularly in people who play high-impact sports such as football, rugby, and basketball. A calcaneal fracture can range from a small crack to a complete break. The severity of the injury will determine the treatment and the length of time it takes to recover.

Most people with a calcaneal fracture will need four to six weeks off work to recover. However, this will depend on the type of work you do and the severity of the fracture. If your fracture is more severe, you may need to take 12 weeks off work. Your employer should be able to give you more information about what to expect.

Once your doctor has cleared you to return to work, it is important to take things slowly at first. You may need to ease back into your usual work schedule and tasks. If you do any physical activity at work, warm-up up and stretch first. And, if you start to feel any pain, stop and rest.

 Returning to work after a calcaneal fracture can be a gradual process, but eventually, you will be back to your usual routine.

How long does it take to walk after a calcaneal fracture?

It generally takes six to eight weeks to walk after a calcaneal fracture. This time frame may be shorter or longer depending on the severity of the fracture and the individual’s response to treatment. In some cases, surgery may be required to stabilize the bones and allow for a quicker recovery. 

Most people can walk with little to no pain after the initial healing period. However, some may experience long-term pain and discomfort in the foot and ankle and require additional treatments such as physiotherapy or injections.

What to wear when returning to work after a calcaneal fracture?

Assuming your calcaneal fracture has healed: 

If you’re returning to a desk job, you might be able to get away with wearing comfortable shoes with low heels. If you have to be on your feet more, you’ll want to choose shoes that give your heel and arch some extra support. A good pair of shoes would be an athletic shoe with built-in arch support. 

If you’re returning to a job that requires you to be on your feet a lot, you might consider wearing a boot or a shoe with built-in arch support and a higher heel. 

You should avoid wearing shoes that don’t offer any support, such as flip-flops or high heels. 

You might also consider wearing a brace or orthotic device to help support your foot and prevent further injury. 

If you have any questions about what kind of shoes or orthotic devices would be best for you, you should consult your doctor or orthopedic specialist.

What are the best types of shoes to wear after a calcaneal fracture?

A few different types of shoes can be beneficial after a calcaneal fracture, depending on the specific injury. A walking boot or a shoe with a stiff sole can help protect the foot and allow some movement. A cast or splint may also be necessary for more serious fractures. 

Some people: may need to wear a custom orthotic or shoe insert after a calcaneal fracture. This can help support the foot and prevent further injury. It is important to consult with a doctor or physical therapist to determine the best type of shoe or support for your individual needs. 

In general, it is important to avoid high heels or shoes with a lot of padding. These can put extra pressure on the foot and heel and may delay healing. It is also important to avoid shoes that are too tight, as this can also put pressure on the foot and heel. Instead, choose comfortable shoes, provide support, and allow some movement.

Some Exercises for Return to work after a Calcaneal Fracture

There are some specific exercises and stretches that you can do to help with your return to work after a calcaneal fracture. These exercises and stretches will help to improve your range of motion, flexibility, and strength. 

Some specific exercises that you can do include: ankle pumps, calf raises, and heel drops. These exercises will help to improve your range of motion and flexibility. In addition, you should also do some strengthening exercises such as toe raises, ankle weights, and Thera-Band exercises. These exercises will help to improve your strength and stability. 

You should also make sure to stretch your calf muscles and Achilles tendon. These stretches will help to improve your range of motion and flexibility.

Conclusions

A calcaneal fracture is a break in the heel bone. This type of injury is usually caused by a high-impact force, such as a fall from a height or a car accident. Treatment for a calcaneal fracture typically involves wearing a cast or boot for several weeks to allow the bone to heal. Once the bone has healed, you may need physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in your foot and ankle. Depending on the severity of the fracture, you may be able to return to work within a few weeks. However, if you have a more serious fracture, it may take several months to recover fully.