Haglunds Deformity

What is Haglund's Deformity?

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement or lump on the back of the heel bone (calcaneus), where the Achilles tendon attaches to the foot area. When that bony enlargement rubs against the heel counter of a shoe, the soft tissue near the Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, often leading to bursitis .

People suffering with Haglund's deformity complain of a rubbing pain which makes them limp when they put their foot to the floor, in shoes. They have a noticeable bump on the back of the heel, which is swollen and inflamed. It is relieved when walking barefoot.

The calcaneum, or the heel bone, is shaped differently on different people and those with a prominent bump are more likely to develop Haglund's deformity.

As with many foot disorders, Haglund’s deformity may be due to inherited foot structures. These  include

A prominent heel bump squeezing the tissues between the shoe counter and the heel.

A high-arched foot

A tight Achilles tendon

A tendency to walk on the outside of the heel.

Treatment of Haglund’s deformity is generally conservative, aimed at reducing the inflammation of the bursa. While these approaches can resolve the pain and inflammation, they will not shrink the bony protrusion. Your podiatrist will be able to advise on the best treatment options for you, but for immediate relief, ice may reduce the swelling of the inflamed area. Wearing shoes with modified heel counters or open-backed shoes will take pressure off the bump, as will walking barefoot.

Longer term, placing pads or cushions inside the heels of shoes can help take pressure off the back of the heel and orthotics may help to stabilise and control the motion of the foot. Some people find that wearing padded socks can also help take pressure off the back of the heel.

Whereas the bony protrusion will not change with conservative treatment, the thickened soft tissues may shrink back to normal size in time, once the pressure is removed.

Anyone who has suffered from Haglund's deformity will want to prevent it happening again. Logical steps to take include:

Wearing appropriate shoes - avoid shoes with a rigid heel back

Performing stretching exercises to prevent the Achilles tendon from tightening

Avoiding running on hard surfaces and running uphill  

Using orthotic devices as prescribed by your podiatrist

As ever, please don't suffer in silence. Call in to see us and ask for our help.