Haglund’s deformity is a bony growth/enlargement of the back of the heel bone.  It can be painful and cause swelling and inflammation of the back of the heel.  This is also known as “pump bump” as it is common in women who wear pumps.

There are various causes of Haglund’s deformity.  These include a high arch, tight Achilles tendon, and walking on the outside of your feet.  Wearing shoes with a firm rigid back can also contribute to a Haglund’s deformity.  The most common types of footwear include pumps and hockey/figure skates.

The most common symptom of Haglund’s deformity is the enlarged bone growth on the back of the heel.  It can also cause blistering of the heels from the shoes rubbing against the bump.  In cases of extreme rubbing against the bump, the back of the heel can become red, inflamed, and tender to touch.

There are multiple treatment options for Haglund’s deformity.  These include:

• Orthotics– Custom made orthotics can be prescribed to change the position of the foot that will help reduce the amount of rubbing of the shoes against the back of the heel.
• Footwear– Footwear that does not have a rigid back can help reduce the amount of friction on the back of the heel.  Also, shoes that have a wider heel counter to accommodate the enlarged bone.
• Immobilization-If the area is really inflamed, a walking boot or soft cast can be used to immobilize the area until it heals.
• Surgery-If no conservative treatments are effective then surgical options are available.

Prevention of Haglund’s deformity includes wearing shoes that have a soft heel counter, wearing custom-made orthotics to correct foot type that could lead to a Haglund’s deformity, and stretching of the Achilles tendon.

For more information on Haglund’s deformity, or to book an assessment, contact Ontario Foot and Orthotics at (905)878-6479 or visit us online at www.ontariofoot.ca.