Haglund's Deformity
Reducing Heel Pain and Inflammation
Understanding and Treating Haglund’s Deformity (“Pump Bump”)
Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement at the back of the heel that becomes irritated or inflamed — often caused by pressure from shoes. Commonly known as the “pump bump,” this condition frequently affects women who wear rigid-backed or high-heeled shoes, though it can develop in anyone. Over time, the constant friction can cause swelling, redness, and pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone.
Causes
Haglund’s deformity develops when repeated pressure or friction irritates the soft tissue at the back of the heel. Contributing factors include:
- Wearing stiff-backed or high-heeled shoes
- High arches or tight Achilles tendons
- Inherited foot shape that increases heel contact
- Abnormal walking patterns, such as rolling the foot outward
These factors cause the heel bone to rub against shoes, leading to inflammation and sometimes calcium buildup that worsens the bump.
Symptoms
Signs of Haglund’s deformity may include:
- A visible bump on the back of the heel
- Redness and swelling around the Achilles tendon
- Heel pain that worsens with tight shoes
- Stiffness and tenderness when walking
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the level of pain. Most patients improve with non-surgical care focused on reducing pressure and inflammation.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Apply ice for 15–20 minutes to reduce swelling
- Take anti-inflammatory medication as directed
- Use heel lifts or soft pads in shoes
- Switch to backless or cushioned footwear
- Stretch the Achilles tendon to reduce strain
Surgical Options
If conservative treatment fails, surgery may be recommended to remove the bony prominence and relieve pressure on the tendon.
Prevention
Prevent recurrence by wearing properly fitted shoes, using supportive inserts, and stretching regularly to maintain Achilles flexibility.
If you notice a painful bump or swelling on the back of your heel, schedule an appointment with our podiatry team. Early treatment can prevent chronic irritation and help you get back to walking comfortably.
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