Calcaneum definitions
| Word backwards | muenaclac |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The word "calcaneum" is a noun. |
| Syllabic division | cal-ca-ne-um |
| Plural | The plural of calcaneum is calcanea. |
| Total letters | 9 |
| Vogais (3) | a,e,u |
| Consonants (4) | c,l,n,m |
The calcaneum, also known as the heel bone, is the largest tarsal bone in the human foot, located beneath the talus and cuboid bones. It plays a crucial role in weight-bearing and walking, as it helps to distribute the body's weight evenly across the foot.
Structure of the Calcaneum
The calcaneum is a dense, strong bone that is shaped like a cube, with a slightly curved undersurface. It has several bony protrusions and grooves that serve as attachment sites for various muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These structures help to stabilize the foot and facilitate movement.
Functions of the Heel Bone
The calcaneum is primarily responsible for providing support and stability to the foot, especially during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. It also acts as a lever arm for the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) during plantar flexion of the ankle, allowing for push-off with each step.
Common Injuries to the Calcaneum
Due to its location and the amount of weight it bears, the calcaneum is prone to various injuries, such as fractures, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis. These injuries can be caused by overuse, trauma, or improper footwear, among other factors.
Bone density plays a crucial role in determining the strength and resilience of the calcaneum, as denser bones are less likely to fracture under stress. Similarly, maintaining proper foot alignment and using supportive footwear can help prevent injuries to the heel bone.
Overall, the calcaneum is a vital component of the human foot, providing structural support, stability, and mobility for various activities. Understanding its anatomy and function can help individuals take better care of their feet and prevent or address issues related to this important bone.
Calcaneum Examples
- He suffered a fracture in his calcaneum during the soccer game.
- The doctor explained that the calcaneum is also known as the heel bone.
- The podiatrist recommended exercises to strengthen the muscles around the calcaneum.
- She felt a sharp pain in her calcaneum when she landed awkwardly after jumping.
- The athlete underwent surgery to repair a torn ligament in his calcaneum.
- The X-ray revealed a small bone spur on the calcaneum.
- Physical therapy helped improve the range of motion in his calcaneum.
- The elderly patient complained of tenderness in her calcaneum when walking.
- The orthopedic surgeon recommended wearing supportive shoes to protect the calcaneum.
- The calcaneum is an important bone for weight-bearing activities like standing and walking.