Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement of the back of the heel bone and usually referred to as a “pump bump” since it’s common among patients who wears heels. The primary symptoms of this deformity are a bony prominence on the back of the heel, which may lead to heel pain and/or blisters as a result of your shoes rubbing against the bump.
While many place the blame on the type of shoe you’re wearing, Haglund’s deformity can also develop if you have high arches, a tight Achilles tendon, or a tendency to walk on the outside of your feet.
Heel pads placed in the backs of your shoes may relieve and redistribute some of the pressure and applying ice to the area after removing your shoes may also ease some of the pain and discomfort. If the pain persists, however, or if the bump continues to enlarge, it’s time to see a podiatrist. A podiatrist can carefully evaluate your feet and create a treatment plan tailored to you, including:
- Shoe modifications
- Heel pads/lifts
- Custom orthotics
- Anti-inflammatories
- Surgery (If none of the non-surgical methods provide adequate relief, your podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the deformity)
To learn more about Haglund’s deformity or to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, please feel free to contact our office at (248)348-5300 or schedule an appointment online!