Haglund Deformity (also known as "pump bump" or "retrocalcaneal bursitis") is a painful enlargement of the back of the heel bone that becomes irritated by shoes.
It normally appears as a red, painful, and swollen area in the back of the heel bone. Women tend to develop the condition more than men because of the irritation from rigid heel counters of shoes rubbing up and down on the back of the heel bone.
Changing shoes, soaking feet, and anti-inflammatory medications often mitigate the symptoms of this problem.
Dr. Young will evaluate the way you are walking to determine why you developed this bump.
1. Sometimes the corner of the heel bone (calcaneus) is prominent. The shoe counter rubs against it and irritates the soft tissues and causes swelling.
2. Overpronation or under pronation will cause a rocking of the normal shaped heel bone. Treatments include ultrasound treatments, padding, change of shoe styles, orthotics and, rarely, surgery.
3. Lastly, some people develop actual spurs, which can be very large, at the insertion of the Achilles tendon. Wearing clogs or shoes without backs is the only relief. They should have a thicker heel to lift and cause less tension on the heel cord. Surgery to remove the spur is usually recommended in this case.
Dr. Williams will evaluate your heel bump and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
