Do you have "Pump Bump"

Haglund’s Deformity is a protrusion of bony growth off of the top of the calcaneus, or heel bone.  This can often lead to a painful swelling of the bursa between the calcaneus and the Achilles tendon, also known as bursitis.  The bursitis is caused by the Haglund’s Deformity rubbing up against the soft tissues of the back of the ankle, usually from a pair of poorly-fitting shoes.  In fact, Haglund’s Deformity is sometimes called a “Pump Bump”, because women’s pump-style shoes will often irritate the soft tissues.  Young women that wear this style of shoe make up the largest group of patients with bursitis due to Haglund’s Deformity. 

Symptoms of Haglund’s Deformity include inflammation and redness of the back of the heel, swelling in the area that the Achilles tendon attaches to the calcaneus, and a noticeable bump on the back of the heel.  This bump is the bursa sac between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone that has become inflamed.  These symptoms can be seen on either or both heels.  Your foot and ankle specialist may diagnose Haglund’s Deformity by taking x-rays of the effected area to rule out other possible causes. 

Haglund’s Deformity, to a certain extent, can be attributed to heredity.  A person with high arches will have a heel that is tipped backwards towards the Achilles tendon, which predisposes the person to excessive rubbing of the heel against the bursa.  Other factors include the types of shoes that people wear, such as tight fitting pumps or high heels.  Pain from Haglund’s Deformity is also frequently seen in runner’s, especially those with poorly-fitting running shoes that put extra pressure on the back of the heel.

Once your doctor diagnoses Haglund’s Deformity, there are several non-surgical options of treatment that may be suggested.  Medication, such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and ice may help in alleviating the pain and inflammation.  Certain exercises that strengthen the muscles of the leg will help to alleviate some of the tension on the Achilles tendon, and physical therapy may help as well.  Your foot and ankle specialist may suggest heel pads, heel lifts, or orthotics to help prevent the rubbing.

Of course, the option of surgery may be suggested if the non-surgical methods of treatment fail to relieve the pain.  Surgery on Haglund’s Deformity involves removing the piece of the bone that is rubbing against the bursa sac and the Achilles tendon.

Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center, LLC
101 6th Street N.W.
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Phone: 863-299-4551
http://www.FLFootandAnkle.com