Haglund’s deformity also known as a “pump bump” or retrocalcaneal bursitis is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel. This causes irritation to the soft tissue surrounding the bony enlargement. The achilles tendon may get inflamed, along with the bursa (fluid filled sac between the tendon and bone). Patients feel pain when wearing closed back shoes which rubs on the bony prominence.
Haglund's Deformity (Pump Bump)
Causes
Foot deformity- Patient with high arches and those that walk on the outside of the foot tend to have higher rates of haglunds.
Tight achilles tendon- Tight calf muscles can lead to extra strain which causes the bone to enlarge and get irritated
Shoe gear- patient that wear high heel causes the bony enlargement due to constant rubbing at the back of the heel
Arthritis- This can lead to decrease in range of motion of the joints cause the extra strain and enlargement at the bone.
Symptoms
Noticeable bump at the insertion of achilles or back of the heel
Redness and irritation at the back of the heel
Pain with range of motion of the ankle joint
Restricted range of motion and tight calf musculature
Treatment
X-ray/MRI/Ultrasound imaging may be performed to visualize the injury the bony and soft tissue
Conservative Treatment
Most patient respond very well to conservative treatment, This may include
-
- Rest, Ice, Elevation, Compression
- Oral Anti-inflammatory
- Topical compound pain medication
- Physical therapy
- Heel lift
- Custom molded orthotics
- Immobilization use a Cam walker
- Amniotics cell therapy- this contains growth factors and stems cells that can help regenerate the damaged tissue
Surgical Intervention
For those patients that have failed conservative treatment surgical intervention may be required. Multiple surgical procedures are available. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the correct procedure suited for each patient. The surgeon may perform a gastrocnemius lengthening for tight calf musculature and the bony prominence resection. Here at Premier Foot and Ankle Center, we can use a minimally invasive technique for a faster recovery. Call to see if this approach is right for you.
