Say Goodbye to the Bump: Beat Haglund Disease Heel Pain

Heel pain slowing you down? You’re not alone; around 20% of individuals in India deal with constant foot or ankle pain. One lesser-known but common culprit is Haglund disease, often called the “pump bump.” It happens when a bony growth develops at the back of your heel, rubbing painfully against your tendons or shoes. If left untreated, it can turn every step into a struggle. But the good news? Early recognition and proper care can make a huge difference.

In this blog, let’s uncover what Haglund’s disease really is, its warning signs, causes, and the best ways to treat it.

Haglund Disease: A Brief Introduction

Haglund deformity is a foot condition where the back section of the calcaneus (heel bone) has an irregular bony enlargement at its upper rear section. This particular bump rubs against the tendon and soft tissues that attach to the heel (Achilles tendon). 

The pressure and rubbing cause swelling, pain, and at times, inflammation of the surrounding bursa (fluid-filled sac) and the tendon. Since the heel bump usually takes place where the tendon attaches and where the heel counters or rigid shoes might press, Haglund’s deformity can interfere with your day-to-day sports, standing, or walking.

What Causes Haglund’s Disease to Take Place?

There are several causes of Haglund’s deformity, and some of the primary ones are listed below:

• Anatomical Bone Shape: Some people have an inherently high “posterosuperior” prominence of the heel bone, which predisposes them to the issue. 
• Tight Achilles Tendon: When the Achilles tendon becomes tighter, there is more pressure or traction at its insertion, which increases the irritation. 
• High-Arched Foot: These biomechanical problems can change the way forces are applied to the heel.
• Wearing Shoes with Rigid Backs: When the shoe presses the back side of the heel bump, it increases the irritation.
• Repetitive or Overuse Heel Trauma: Those who stand for long hours, runners, and people who walk a lot might be at a much higher risk of developing this condition.

The Types of Symptoms You’ll Notice

When you have Haglund disease, you might experience the following symptoms:

• A visible enlargement or bump at the back of the heel, usually just above where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel.
• Pain in the back section of the heel, particularly when you take the first step after resting/sitting, when you wear rigid shoes, or when you work out or walk.
• Redness, swelling, and at times local warmth or a feeling of pressure or rubbing when the shoes touch the heel
• Reduced mobility of the heel region/ankle, or experiencing discomfort when conducting activities, such as rising on toes, using the stairs, or jumping. 

Diagnoses of Haglund Deformity

When it comes to the diagnosis of Haglund disease, it typically involves imaging and a thorough clinical examination:

• The physician examines the bump on your heel, checks for signs of bursitis, tenderness, Achilles involvement, or swelling.
• X-rays of the heel (the lateral view of the heel bone) can help assess the enlargement and angles that show the deformity. One study showed that assessment of certain parameters via the Haglund syndrome radiology method was helpful.
• MRI or Ultrasound might be used in more complex cases to assess the soft-tissue involvement, bursa, and tendon.

Available Treatment Options for Haglund’s Disease

You will come across several non-surgical Haglund’s deformity treatment options that aim to lower the irritation, give relief from mechanical stress, and promote healing:

• Changing the Footwear: Picking shoes that have soft backs, heel counters that don’t press the bump, orthotic inserts to lower the traction, or using heel lifts.
• Strengthening and Stretching: Enhancing the flexibility of the calf and Achilles tendon, opting for eccentric Haglund deformity exercises for the tendon, and addressing the foot biomechanics can help.
• Anti-inflammatory Measures: You can use non-steroidal medications (under the physician’s direction), apply ice to the heel, and take rest after aggravating activities. 

When Surgery is Needed

When a conservative route fails (usually after 6 months) and the symptoms keep occurring, Haglund’s deformity surgery might be considered. The operation involves reshaping or removing the bony bump, excising the inflamed bursa, and, at times, decompressing the Achilles insertion.

Tips, Prevention, and Lifestyle Advice for Haglund Disease

The tips below can help you prevent the condition from taking place:

• Wear shoes with open heels or soft backs to avoid the rigid heel bump pressure. 
• Try not to walk barefoot for too long on hard surfaces when you have a high arch or feel the heel rubbing.
• Stretch the Achilles tendon and calf muscles periodically to lower tension on the heel.
• Do not ignore the constant heel pain. Visit a foot specialist to check the bump early.
• Older adults must schedule periodic foot check-ups and address heel discomfort before it becomes much worse.

Conclusion

Haglund’s deformity is a structural foot condition where a bony enlargement at the back of the heel causes constant pain. This particular case takes place due to a tight Achilles tendon, biomechanical problems, aggravated by shoes. You can lower the heel pain by changing the footwear, doing proper workouts, and taking rest. Surgery becomes the only option when the condition doesn’t improve. Staying well-aware and acting early can help save you from severe discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Haglund Disease