Bone bruise of the calcaneus. A case report.

A bone bruise to both calcanei after axial overloading is reported. Because radiographs were normal and weightbearing was not possible, magnetic resonance imaging was performed and showed characteristic findings for a bone bruise of the calcaneus more extended on the left side than the right side. Resolution of pain was within the first 2 weeks after trauma on the right side, whereas partial weightbearing was necessary for 4 months on the left side. Six months after trauma, complete resolution of magnetic resonance signal changes was evident. Bone bruises should be considered when radiographs are normal. Because bone bruises pose a potential risk for chondrolysis and stress fracture, mobilization and weightbearing should be increased gradually.