Haglund's Deformity | Carriero Foot & Ankle

Haglund’s deformity, also known as “pump bump,” is a condition that affects the heel of the foot. It involves the formation of a bony enlargement on the back of the heel, typically at the point where the Achilles tendon attaches.

This condition can cause pain, inflammation, and discomfort, especially when walking or wearing certain types of shoes. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what Haglund’s deformity is, its causes, common symptoms, and various treatment options available.

What is Haglund’s Deformity?

Haglund’s deformity is a bony protrusion at the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. It often appears as a large bump on the upper back of the heel. This bump can irritate and inflame nearby tissues.

This condition is called a “pump bump” because it’s common in people who wear tight, rigid shoes like high-heeled pumps. These shoes put pressure on the area.

Causes of Haglund’s Deformity

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

Repetitive Stress and Pressure
Structural Abnormalities
Tight Achilles Tendon
Genetics

Symptoms of Haglund’s Deformity

Haglund’s deformity often presents with a combination of the following symptoms:

Pain and Tenderness
Swelling and Redness
Warmth
Difficulty Walking
Visible Bump on the back of the heel

Treatment Options for Haglund’s Deformity

Fortunately, there are various treatment options available for managing and alleviating symptoms. The appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying causes.

Conservative Treatments:

Rest
Ice Therapy
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Heel Pads or Cushions
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Proper Shoes
Orthotics
Physical Therapy

Surgical Intervention:

If conservative treatments fail to provide relief and the deformity is causing significant pain or difficulty walking, surgery may be considered.

Surgical options typically involve removing the bony prominence from the heel or repairing any damage to the Achilles tendon.

Recovery from surgery may take several months, and physical therapy is usually required afterward to regain full function.

Conclusion

Haglund’s deformity can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, it is possible to manage the symptoms and regain comfort. Early intervention and conservative measures can often prevent the need for more invasive treatments, helping you stay active and pain-free.

If you’ve had experience with Haglund’s deformity, we’d love to hear your thoughts or any treatments that worked for you! Leave a comment below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can steroid injections be performed?

Generally, a steroid injection is not recommended. Schedule an appointment to learn more.

Are orthotics beneficial?

Orthotics can greatly help improve symptoms/foot health. Our doctors can give recommendations on OTC versus custom.

Can Haglund’s deformity go away on its own?

It’s unlikely that Haglund’s deformity will resolve completely without intervention. However, symptoms can be managed with conservative treatments, and some people may experience relief over time.

What happens if Haglund’s deformity is left untreated?

The condition can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, tendon damage, and difficulty with movement. In severe cases, it can result in tendonitis or bursitis, both of which can cause long-term issues.

Is surgery always necessary for Haglund’s deformity?

Surgery is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatments don’t provide relief, or if there’s significant damage to the Achilles tendon or surrounding structures. Most cases are managed without surgery.

Have additional questions?

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