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Professional Plaza III
104 Delaware Avenue, Suite 240
Uniontown, PA 15401 US
(724) 550-4312

What Is Haglund's Deformity?
HaglundHaglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel. The soft tissue near the Achilles tendon becomes irritated when the bony enlargement rubs against shoes.  This often leads to painful bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac between the tendon and bone).

 

Causes
Haglund’s deformity is often called “pump bump” because the rigid backs of pump-style shoes can create pressure that aggravates the enlargement when walking. In fact, any shoes with a rigid back, such as ice skates, men’s dress shoes, or women’s pumps, can cause this irritation.

To some extent, heredity plays a role in Haglund’s deformity. Inherited foot structures that can make one prone to developing this condition include:

  • A high-arched foot
  • A tight Achilles tendon
  • A tendency to walk on the outside of the heel.

Symptoms
Haglund’s deformity can occur in one or both feet. The symptoms include:

  • A noticeable bump on the back of the heel
  • Pain in the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel
  • Swelling in the back of the heel
  • Redness near the inflamed tissue

Diagnosis
After evaluating the patient’s symptoms, the foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot. In addition, x-rays will be ordered to help the surgeon evaluate the structure of the heel bone.

Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment of Haglund’s deformity is aimed at reducing the inflammation of the bursa. While these approaches can resolve the pain and inflammation, they will not shrink the bony protrusion. Non-surgical treatment can include one or more of the following:

  • Medication. Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to reduce the pain and inflammation.
  • Ice. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the inflamed area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.
  • Exercises. Stretching exercises help relieve tension from the Achilles tendon. These exercises are especially important for the patient who has a tight heel cord.
  • Heel lifts. Patients with high arches may find that heel lifts placed inside the shoe decrease the pressure on the heel.
  • Heel pads. Pads placed inside the shoe cushion the heel and may help reduce irritation when walking.
  • Shoe modification. Backless or soft backed shoes help avoid or minimize irritation.
  • Physical therapy. Physical therapy modalities, such as ultrasound, can help to reduce inflammation.
  • Orthotic devices. Custom arch supports control the motion in the foot.
  • Immobilization. In some cases, casting may be necessary.

When Is Surgery Needed?
If non-surgical treatment fails to provide adequate pain relief, surgery may be needed. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the procedure that is best suited to your case. It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for post-surgical care.

Prevention
A recurrence of Haglund’s deformity may be prevented by:

  • Wearing appropriate shoes; avoid shoes with a rigid heel back
  • Using arch supports or orthotic devices
  • Performing stretching exercises to prevent the Achilles tendon from tightening
  • Avoiding running on hard surfaces and running uphill.

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8:30 am-11:30 am

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Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Us

  • "This was my first time there all the staff was super nice and friendly and Dr Chip Morris has such a great bed-side manner he made me feel so comfortable as did his staff I would definitely recommend him! Thanks again guys!"
    Tiffany Smithburger
  • "Dr. Morris is absolutely amazing!!! He always puts his patients first and gives top notch care! He truly cares about his patients and will always treat you right! My husband and I don't trust anyone else with our feet!!"
    Regina Berish
  • "Dr. Morris is fantastic! I'm so glad I found this podiatrist. The care is exceptional and the whole staff is fantastic. Cannot recommend enough!"
    Peggy Culley-Abell
  • "Dr. Chip is the best!!! He is mindful of all of his patients needs and does his best with each one!!! I highly recommend this Dr. for any podiatry needs!!!!!"
    Vicki Bortz
  • "Dr. Morris is #1 in Fayette County, for Podiatry needs. If you want the best .... Look no further!"
    Paul Bortz Sr.