Calcaneus Fracture — ORIF

University of Colorado Anschutz (CU) · Dept. of Orthopedic Surgery, Foot & Ankle

Weight-Bearing

NWB on surgical foot until at least 12 wks post-op; progressive WB starting at 12 wks (start 20 lbs, increase 20 lbs every 2-3 days over 1 month); joint depression fracture: hold at 40 lbs x 1 month before progressing; FWB with good gait by wks 16-17

Key Restrictions

Leg elevated 8-10 inches from bed-level; bulky Jones splint post-op; foot in neutral at rest; limit time with extremity dependent throughout; swimming OK at 6 wks but no walking in water and no aggressive kicking; NO dead lift/clean and jerk weight lifting after 6 months; if increased pain/swelling: back off WB and rebuild gradually; joint depression fracture type is more conservative

Timeline & Phases

6 phases: Pre-op, Post-op (0-2 wks), 2-6 wks, 6-12 wks, 12 wks (WB begins), 4-6 months; pre-op PT visit required for red flag screening (bilateral, prior failure, age >65, UE injury, comorbidities)

Notes

.edu site; includes mandatory pre-op PT assessment; red flag screening criteria listed; POD 1 toe and intrinsic ROM; STJ A/PROM begins at 2-3 wk visit; grade 1-2 joint mobs at 6-7 wks; OTC orthotics (Spenco/Superfeet) at 12 wks; balance and proprioception when FWB; functional assessment at 6 months (timed SL stance, heel raise, squats, step-ups)

Surgeon / Author

Dept. of Orthopedic Surgery, Foot & Ankle