The Calcaneal Squeeze Test is test to compress the sides of the calcaneus and is helpful as part of the assessment for calcaneal apophysitis or a calcaneal stress fracture.
Technique
- Patient position: Usually sitting or lying with the foot hanging freely.
- Examiner’s hands: The clinician grasps the heel with one hand on each side, placing fingers along the medial and lateral aspects of the calcaneus.
- Action: Apply a firm mediolateral compression to the heel.
- Observation: Ask if the patient feels pain and note where and how it’s felt.
Interpretation
- Positive test: Pain elicited deep in the calcaneus during squeezing — especially if localized — suggests:
- Calcaneal stress fracture (most common reason)
- Less commonly, severe bone bruise or osteomyelitis
- Negative test: No significant pain, which makes a calcaneal fracture less likely (but doesn’t completely rule it out).