Haglund's deformity is an enlargement of the bony prominence on the back of the heel bone (calcaneus). When this rigid bump rubs against the backs of stiff shoes, it irritates the overlying soft tissues and retrocalcaneal bursa, causing painful bursitis and redness at the insertion of the Achilles tendon.
Common Symptoms
A visible, hard bony bump on the back of the heel · Sharp heel pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the bone · Redness, swelling, and tenderness at the back of the heel · Blisters or calluses forming over the heel bump due to shoe friction
Our Treatment Approach
Digital heel radiography → shoe modification advice (open-back shoes or soft heel counters) → custom orthotic heel lifts to elevate the heel and reduce tendon pressure → topical anti-inflammatory therapy → surgical exostectomy (removing the bony bump) for persistent cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Haglund's deformity called a "pump bump"?
It earned the nickname because rigid heel counters on women's pump shoes frequently press against the heel bone, aggravating inflammation over the bump.
Can a bony heel bump be reduced without surgery?
Non-surgical options cannot shrink the bone itself, but they can completely eliminate the pain, redness, and bursitis so you can walk comfortably.
Book Haglund’s Deformity (“Pump Bump”)
Most patients are seen within 48 hours. A care coordinator will call you to confirm.
