I shattered my calcaneous (heel bone). Surgery 3 weeks ago with plates, pins and screws. Any ideas how long before a normal life can resume after this? This is the worst pain I have ever encountered in my life. Unrelenting and overwhelming. My doctor is impossible to get hold of. How much longer does this agony last?

Dear John,
Sorry to hear the bad news...Unfortunately, calcaneal fractures have a very long road to recovery. The literature actually states that even a minor displacement of 1mm within the subtalar joint (talus/calcaueus) can result in arthritis in the future...Normally bones require approximately 4-6 weeks to heal however, with the trauma that you described it may take longer....espesially if they had to fuse any of the joints. Remodelling of bone may take up to 1-2 years.
It really depends on your personal progress...stay off your foot as much as possible, use either crutch or wheel chair. Swelling is uaually a common complaint and that may take up to one year to fully resolve maybe even longer. Keep your leg elevated, anti-inflammmatories may also help.
You will probably only be able to walk once you show radiographic evidence of healing. Your doctor will have to decide when it will be appropriate to start Physical therapy, take advantage of all your visits.

Good luck
SBarlizo