Biomechanics as a basis for management of intra-articular fractures of the calcaneus.

This article presents a critical examination of biomechanics studies in the literature that could shed light on or contribute to the development of methods of managing intra-articular calcaneal fractures. An appreciation and understanding of such studies is predicated on a sound knowledge of a number of germane topics: the anatomy of the normal calcaneus, the pathomechanics of the calcaneus, fracture-classification schemes, and fracture-management methods. The first part of this review presents overviews of these topics. The biomechanics studies are then reviewed in detail. The article concludes with a description of research areas that might close the gaps identified in these studies.