The human foot has many bones. The talus is one of those bones which is located between the heel bone and the two bones that make up the lower leg. The talus itself is oddly shaped with the bones of the lower leg sitting on top and covering the sides which forms the ankle joint.
The talus serves as the connection between the foot and the rest of the leg. This helps to keep pressure and weight transferred sufficiently across the ankle joint. However, too much pressure can cause the talus to become fractured. Typically, auto accidents are the most common cause of this type of fracture but many talus fractures have also been the result of a fall from a great height.
After an auto accident or other on the job injury, you may deduce you have a fractured talus if you experience acute pain just below the ankle region. You also will not be able to bear any pressure or weight on the foot and will notice substantial swelling. The area may also be tender to the touch. It is necessary to see your medical provider or make a trip to the hospital emergency room for a proper x-ray, examination, and diagnosis.
Your medical provider will want to make sure there is no additional damage to the surrounding nerves and that blood flow has not been interrupted. Surgery will be required for many fractured talus situations because weight will make the bones shift. Surgery is necessary to realign bones properly so they can heal. If left untreated, a talus fracture can result in an improperly healed bone, cause chronic pain, and may limit mobility in the future.
After surgery, a cast will be necessary for a period of 8 weeks or more. No weight will be allowed on the repaired foot for up to three months to allow the bones to heal correctly.
