A hematoma extending to the sole of the foot is called "Mondor Sign", and is pathognomonic for calcaneal fracture.

[6][7] Skin blisters may become infected if medical attention is delayed, which can lead to necrotizing fasciitis or osteomyelitis, causing permanent damage to muscle or bone.

[8] A trauma-focused clinical approach should be implemented; tibial, knee, femur, hip, and head injuries should be ruled out by means of history and physical exam.

[citation needed] Calcaneal fractures are often attributed to shearing stress adjoined with compressive forces combined with a rotary direction (Soeur, 1975[7]).

[citation needed] Unfortunately, the prevention of falls and automobile accidents is limited and applies to unique circumstances that should be avoided.

The risk of muscular stress fractures can be reduced through stretching and weight-bearing exercise, such as strength training.

A 2012 study conducted by Salzler[9] showed that the increasing trend toward minimalist footwear or running barefoot can lead to a variety of stress fractures including that of the calcaneus.

A study by Cheng et al. in 1997,[10] showed that greater bone density indicated less risk for fractures in the calcaneus.

The diabetic population is more susceptible to the risks of fracture and potential healing complications and infection that may lead to limb amputation.

[13] Axial and coronal views are obtained for proper visualization of the calcaneus, subtalar, calcaneocuboid and talonavicular joints.

[citation needed] Calcaneal fractures are categorized as intra-articular or extra-articular on the basis of subtalar joint involvement.

Recommendations include no weight-bearing for a few weeks followed by range-of-motion exercises and progressive weight bearing for a period of 2–3 months.

[17] Currently, open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) is usually the preferred surgical approach when dealing with displaced intra-articular fractures.

[19] With the growing prevalence of minimally invasive surgeries further studies are needed to better determine if these newer surgical interventions offer improved outcomes.

Exercises that allow slight to full body weight to be used in the final phases include stepping forward then back, side-stepping, and leg stand.

[citation needed] The first phase of the rehabilitation after surgery includes keeping the foot elevated and iced for the first 2 days after the operation.