Haglund’s Deformity, not to be confused with Achilles tendon problems, is a boney prominence over the back of the heel bone. It is also known as pump bump deformity where discomfort is mainly noted over the back of the heel bone from rubbing with the heel counter of a shoe. Redness and blistering may occur in this area from shoe irritation. This may occur in one or both feet. Patients who have excessive motion or instability during gait are more likely to develop symptoms due to increase shearing forces between the heel and the shoe. Haglund’s deformity is a congenital condition and not all Haglund’s are symptomatic. Occasionally, a bursa, which is a benign soft tissue mass can form underneath the skin and over the boney prominence as a result of chronic irritation from shoes.

15 year old patient with Haglund’s Deformity before surgery.

Please visit the Haglund’s Deformity page for more information regarding conservative treatment for this problem.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is recommended if patient fails to relieve pain with conservative options. Selecting comfortable footwear and performing activities may continue to be painful and difficult. Surgery then should be considered in this scenario. During your surgical consultation with our foot surgeon, Dr. Wang will examine this boney prominence and order X-rays. Due to its close proximity to the Achilles Tendon, the largest tendon in our body, this tendon will also be evaluated to make sure it is functioning properly. Dr. Wang will discuss the surgery in detail. Typically, surgery involves removal of the boney prominence. In some cases, the Achilles tendon may need to be temporarily detached in order to remove the entire Haglund’s Deformity. In this case, following bone removal, the Achilles tendon will be reattached to the heel bone using a bone anchor.

Following surgical removal of Haglund’s Deformity.

Following surgery, your foot and leg will be protected in a cast for a few weeks then advance to weight bearing in a fracture boot. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation is initiated as early as 3 to 4 weeks after surgery.

Don’t let Haglund’s Deformity affect your lifestyle. If you have exhausted various conservative treatment for this problem, contact our office for a consultation with our doctor today.