Postoperative Korean Medical Treatment Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Calcaneal Fracture: A Case Report

Calcaneal fractures are difficult to manage because of the heel’s complex anatomy and the risk of chronic pain and joint dysfunction. Although open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is the standard treatment, postoperative pain, swelling, stiffness, and sensory disturbances often hinder recovery. We report a case of a 60-year-old male patient who underwent ORIF for a calcaneal fracture, followed by Integrated Korean Medicine (IKM) treatment, including electroacupuncture, herbal medicine, moxibustion, physiotherapy, and therapeutic exercise. Over 67 days, the patient showed marked improvement in ankle pain, edema, range of motion, and sensory symptoms, progressing from wheelchair dependence to independent ambulation. Subjective symptoms, such as swelling, heat sensation, and hyposensitivity, improved. Functional recovery was assessed using the improved Korean version of the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score. This case illustrates that IKM may effectively complement conventional rehabilitation after ORIF for calcaneal fractures by relieving pain, reducing edema, restoring sensation, and improving function.