Haglund’s Deformity

What is a Haglund’s Deformity?

Here in Frisco, Texas podiatrists see a variety of foot and ankle conditions.  One of the conditions we often see is called a Haglund’s deformity.  A Haglund’s deformity is a prominent bony enlargement located at the back of the heel at the area where the Achilles tendon attaches.  As the bony prominence enlarges, this can cause irritation to the Achilles tendon or bursitis (inflammation of a fluid filled sac between the tendon and the bone).

What causes a Haglund’s Deformity?

A Haglund’s Deformity is often referred to as a “pump bump” as it is commonly seen in females who wear pump like style high heels.  Haglund’s deformities are also seen more commonly in those with very tight Achilles tendons and in those with high arches.

What are the symptoms of a Haglund’s deformity?

• Prominent bump located at the back of the heel
• Pain at the site of the bump to touch and with certain shoe gear
• Swelling at the site of the bump
• Tightness in Achilles tendon

How to treat a Haglund’s deformity?

At Star Foot & Ankle Specialists, the podiatrists always start with conservative treatment options.  For a Haglund’s deformity the following are conservative treatment options:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Icing the affected area
• Resting the affected foot
• Stretching the Achilles tendon
• Adding a heel lift to the shoe to alleviate pressure on the heel
• Custom orthotics to help provide biomechanical control
• Physical Therapy

If conservative treatment options fail, we then consider surgical treatment options which include shaving the prominent bone.

If you are in Frisco, Plano, or Little Elm and are experiencing pain in the back of your heel, please give us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Heredia or Dr. Zellers or click HERE.