calcaneal

Calcaneal is an anatomical term relating to the calcaneus, the heel bone. The calcaneus is the largest of the seven tarsal bones and forms the foundation of the hindfoot, bearing much of the body's weight during standing and locomotion. The term derives from Latin calx, calcis, meaning heel.

Anatomy and relations: The calcaneus is a thick, irregular bone with a broad posterior aspect and a prominent posterior tuberosity for tendon attachment. Its superior surface features articular facets that form the subtalar joint with the talus, allowing inversion and eversion of the foot. Medially, the sustentaculum tali projects to support the talus. The distal aspect articulates with the cuboid bone, creating the calcaneocuboid joint. The calcaneal tuberosity on the posterior aspect provides a strong attachment site for the Achilles tendon and, on its plantar surface, for the plantar fascia. The bone receives blood supply primarily from branches of the posterior tibial and peroneal arteries, and innervation is via nearby nerves that accompany these vessels.

Clinical relevance: The calcaneus can be involved in fractures, often resulting from axial loads such as falls from height. Calcaneal fractures can affect the subtalar joint and surrounding structures, sometimes requiring imaging with X-ray or CT for characterization. Other calcaneal conditions include plantar fasciitis with heel spurs, Haglund deformity at the postero-superior tuberosity, and various enthesopathies where the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia attaches.

See also: calcaneus; Achilles tendon; plantar fascia.