The Calcaneus (Heel Bone) Explained

In brief: The calcaneus is the large bone that forms the heel and the foundation of the rearfoot. It is the first bone to take load in a heel strike and anchors the Achilles tendon. Its size and the fat pad over it make the heel a key shock-absorbing point.

What is the calcaneus?

The calcaneus is the largest bone in the foot and forms the heel. It sits at the back and underside of the rearfoot, creating the solid base you land on and providing the attachment point for the Achilles tendon at its rear.

Why it matters

For many runners the calcaneus is the first bone to take load at footstrike, especially heel strikers. It works with a thick fat pad and the surrounding joints to absorb the initial impact and pass it up through the foot and leg.

How it works

When the heel lands, the calcaneus and its fat pad spread the impact, while the joint between it and the bone above helps control how the foot rolls. At push-off, the Achilles pulls on the calcaneus to lift the heel.

What to look for

Cushioning under the heel and a secure heel fit help the calcaneus do its job comfortably. A shoe that holds the heel steady reduces unwanted movement and keeps landings controlled.

The calcaneus and your running kit at OD's

Heel cushioning and a locked-in heel fit make a real difference. The team in St Helens can show you shoes with a secure rearfoot, and we offer next-day delivery and free click and collect.