Senators Defenseman Erik Karlsson is Playing with Heel Fractures

Karlsson is an all star defenseman and a key cog in the Senators roster if they hope to advance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Karlsson suffered an injury to his left heel on March 28 when he blocked a shot. The heel bone, also known as the calcaneus is a very delicate bone with most analogies comparing it to an egg, a hard shell with a soft interior.

The majority of fractures to the heel are sustained after a fall from a height and require a long period of immobilization or even surgical intervention depending on the severity of the injury. However, stress fractures can also occur in the calcaneus due to repetitive stress. In order to continue to compete in the games, Karlsson has been receiving shots to combat the pain. This is quite the commitment to his team considering the long term repercussions including a more severe fracture and subsequent surgery. Due to the fact that Karlsson has been able to play with these fractures, his long term outlook is bright, most likely only needing 6-8 weeks of immobilization.

Because of how hard it is to get into the Stanley Cup playoffs, you can’t blame Karlsson for wanting to continue to play. Hopefully for him it doesn’t lead to long term problems.

If you or a family member have injured your heel, call us at Healthy Feet Podiatry to get you back on your feet!

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