Haglund’s deformity, or “pump bump, is a hard, bony enlargement on the back of the heel. Also called retrocalcaneal bursitis, Haglund’s deformity causes pain when footwear rubs against the protruding bone growth, irritating and inflaming the surrounding soft tissue. Bursitis can develop as a result of Haglund’s deformity and irritation to the area. Rigid-backed footwear, including workboots, high-heeled shoes, dress shoes, and even ice skates can irritate the area, resulting in swelling, redness, and discomfort. Women are more prone to this deformity than men due to the stiff contour of pumps and dress shoes.
Treatment for Haglund’s deformity includes inserting heel pads or lifts into shoes to reduce rubbing and pressure to the area, wearing shoes with soft or no backs, icing the area to reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications on a temporary basis to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling (ask your doctor first).
