The calcaneus is the large bone forming the heel of the foot. It articulates with two other tarsal bones - the cuboid bone and talus.

There are several important parts and landmarks to identify on the calcaneus, such as the following:

Body of the calcaneus, which features a groove for the tendon of flexor hallucis longus;
Tuber calcanei (or calcaneal tuberosity) - the posterior thickened part of the calcaneus. The plantar surface of the calcaneal tuberosity projects two processes - a larger medial process and a smaller lateral process;
Fibular tubercle (or peroneal tubercle) - on the lateral aspect of the calcaneus, the tendons of the peroneus (fibularis) brevis and longus muscles pass above and below it, respectively;
Calcaneal sulcus - a groove between the superior articular surfaces of the calcaneus. The calcaneus sinus together with the sulcus tali form the tarsal sinus;
Sustentaculum tali - a horizontal shelf-like bony extension of the calcaneus, directed medially and supporting the talus. It gives attachment to the plantar calcaneonavicular ligament, tibiocalcaneal ligament, and medial talocalcaneal ligament.

Articular surfaces of the calcaneus include:

Three superior articular surfaces (anterior, middle, posterior talar articular surfaces) - three facets on the upper aspect of the calcaneus, articulating with the talus;
Cuboidal articular surface - an anterior facet for articulation with the cuboid bone.

Unlock with Premium

Calcaneus