What Is Haglund’s Deformity?

Haglund’s Deformity, commonly referred to as a β€œPump Bump,” is a bony enlargement that develops at the back of the heel bone. This condition often occurs when repeated friction and pressure from footwear irritate the heel, causing the bone to enlarge over time. It is commonly associated with rigid-backed shoes such as pumps, dress shoes, skates, and certain athletic footwear.

As the bump becomes more prominent, the surrounding soft tissue may become inflamed and painful, making walking and wearing shoes increasingly uncomfortable. Haglund’s Deformity may also contribute to irritation of the Achilles tendon and surrounding bursae, leading to additional pain and swelling.

Haglund’s Deformity Treatment Options

At our New York foot clinic, we carefully evaluate the severity of the deformity, footwear habits, gait mechanics, and overall foot structure to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and irritation at the back of the heel while relieving pain and inflammation. Conservative care is often effective and may include shoe modifications, anti-inflammatory therapy, custom orthotics, heel lifts, and icing.

For patients whose symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended to remove the painful bony prominence and restore comfort.

Conservative treatment is often successful in reducing pain, inflammation, and irritation caused by Haglund’s Deformity. Patients who continue to experience persistent discomfort may achieve significant long-term relief through minimally invasive surgical correction.

With proper treatment and supportive footwear, most patients are able to return to comfortable daily activities and improved mobility.

TREATMENT OPTIONS
Shoe Modifications & Pressure Relief

Avoiding shoes that rub against the back of the heel is one of the most important aspects of treatment. Patients may benefit from footwear with softer heel counters or open-back designs to reduce irritation and pressure on the bump.

NSAIDs & Anti-Inflammatory Therapy

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen may help reduce swelling, inflammation, and discomfort associated with Haglund’s Deformity.

Ice Therapy & Pain Management

Applying ice to the affected heel may help decrease inflammation and relieve pain, particularly after prolonged standing or activity.

Minimally Invasive Surgery (Tenex Procedure)

If conservative treatment does not provide adequate relief, minimally invasive procedures such as Tenex may be recommended. This procedure uses ultrasonic energy delivered through a tiny incision to break down and remove damaged tissue and the painful bump while minimizing recovery time and surgical trauma.

Treatment Duration & Recovery

Many patients experience symptom relief within several weeks after beginning conservative treatment and making footwear modifications. Long-term management may include continued use of orthotics and supportive footwear to prevent recurrence.

Patients undergoing minimally invasive procedures often experience shorter recovery times and less postoperative discomfort compared to traditional surgery. Recovery varies depending on the severity of the condition and the specific procedure performed.

Say Goodbye to Foot Pain With Our Customized Foot Treatments

If you’re suffering from the uncomfortable symptoms of a Pump Bump, or you have another foot/ankle injury, our NYC foot doctors can get you back on your feet quickly!

Serving the Downtown and Midtown Manhattan areas of NYC, we help you get back to healthy and happy living. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes scar tissue builds up in a tendon and causes the tendon to lose its elasticity. At that point, chronic Achilles tendinitis can be treated by removing the scar tissue using a minimally invasive procedure like Tenex. This uses a wand that transmits ultrasonic energy to break through the scar tissue leaving healthy tissue behind. Downtime is minimal and return to normal activity is about a week.

Warm-up before and cool down after your workout routine. Slowly increase the intensity of your exercise over a period of time. If you’re using equipment at the gym, make sure you know how to use it safely and also with the form and posture. If unsure, always ask!
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Grab a resistance band (or even a stretchy t-shirt)! Place the band or shirt around the ball of your foot. Pull the two ends of the band or shirt towards you until you feel a nice stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds, and relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this 5-10 times for both legs!

Achilles tendonitis rarely requires surgery. However, if treatment is delayed or neglected, there could be further damage such as a tendon tear. This would require surgical repair, and although we can do this with minimally invasive techniques, it is better to prevent damage when possible. Don’t ignore your pain. See your podiatrist as soon as possible.

RELATED SERVICES

By accurately diagnosing, treating, and preventing lower leg, foot, and ankle conditions and ailments, we get you on your way back to healthy feet!Β  We use conservative care and only activate surgeries when absolutely necessary.Β  Here are some of the foot and ankle conditions we treat. Get that peace of mind, and reach out and book an appointment with us today!

ANKLE SPRAIN

BUNION/HALLUX VALGUS

MORTON'S NEUROMA

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

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