What is Haglund’s Deformity?
Haglund’s Deformity is described as a bony bump on the back of the heel. This deformity has historically been dubbed the “pump bump.”
Causes and Symptoms of Haglund’s Deformity:
Haglund’s Deformity is often caused by ill-fitting footwear, like shoes that rub against the back of the heel (i.e., high heels and shoes with a rigid back). The repetitive rubbing and irritation on the heel can lead to inflammation on the bursa, a fluid-filled sac, which lies between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. This causes pain and swelling.
Risk Factors for Haglund’s Deformity:
Haglund’s Deformity can affect anyone, but those more likely to develop this condition are people who wear tight or narrow shoes, women, and people with a direct family member that has experienced Haglund’s Deformity.
Diagnosing Haglund’s Deformity:
To best diagnose Haglund’s Deformity, your provider will conduct a physical exam and likely follow that up with imaging tests. Expect to discuss your symptoms and have your doctor feel the bump on your heel. An x-ray will likely provide a better picture of the bony growth to see if there are any other issues in the foot or ankle present. Prior to surgery, if needed, an MRI may be ordered to further assess the area.
Treatment for Haglund’s Deformity:
Treatment for a Haglund’s Deformity is often quite simple, involving wearing shoes with a softer back and using cushions or heel pads to bolster the area between the shoe and the back of the heel. Physical therapy is often recommended, too. It’s rate to need surgery to treat Haglund’s deformity, but not unheard of. Your provider will likely only resort to this if severe symptoms persist after other treatments. In surgical procedures to correct Haglund’s Deformity, your surgeon will remove the growth of bone and any inflamed tissue around it. This typically takes a few months to fully recover from.
Managing Haglund’s Deformity:
The best way to manage Haglund’s deformity and associated symptoms is to avoid shoes or activities that trigger symptoms.