Which bone is commonly known as the heel bone?

The bone commonly referred to as the heel bone is the calcaneus. This large bone is located at the back of the foot and forms the posterior part of the tarsus. It plays a critical role in weight-bearing and locomotion because it supports the body’s weight while standing and during activities such as walking and running.

The calcaneus provides attachment points for important structures, including the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, facilitating movements like pushing off when walking or running. Additionally, its positioning allows for a proper alignment of the foot, contributing to balance and stability.

In the context of the choices provided, the cuboid, navicular, and talus are all bones within the foot but serve different functions and do not refer to the heel bone. The cuboid is located on the lateral side of the foot, the navicular is situated between the talus and the cuneiform bones, and the talus is the bone that sits above the calcaneus, forming the ankle joint. The distinction between these bones emphasizes the unique role of the calcaneus in foot mechanics.