Dr. Abhinav Singhal is a highly skilled Orthopedic Surgeon in Ghaziabad with over 10 years of experience, specializing in joint arthroscopy, joint replacement, and complex trauma care.
Haglund deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. It can cause irritation, pain, and swelling—especially when wearing tight or stiff shoes.
Also known as :-
“Pump bump” (common in people wearing rigid-backed shoes)
Often confused with Achilles tendonitis or bursitis
Repetitive friction or pressure from footwear
High arches (alter the angle of Achilles pull)
Tight Achilles tendon
Genetic foot structure
Improper footwear (stiff heel cups, high heels)
Pain at the back of the heel, especially after activity
Redness, swelling, and warmth near the heel
Noticeable bump above the heel bone
Pain worsens with shoes that rub the area
Physical exam: Tender, swollen bump at back of heel
X-rays: Show bony prominence
MRI or ultrasound: To assess for Achilles tendon involvement or bursitis
Heel lifts or pads: Reduce friction in shoes
Backless or soft-heeled shoes
Icing & NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) for inflammation
Stretching: Achilles and calf muscles
Physical therapy: Especially for tight Achilles
Orthotics: For foot mechanics correction
Corticosteroid injections: Used carefully to reduce inflammation
🟢 Many people find significant relief with conservative care.
Surgery may be needed if :-
Pain persists for 6+ months
Large bony bump interferes with daily activities
Achilles tendon shows signs of degeneration
Procedures may include:
Excision of the bony prominence
Bursectomy (removing inflamed bursa)
Debridement or repair of the Achilles tendon if involved
Recurrence of symptoms
Stiffness or tight Achilles tendon
Wound healing issues (especially with surgery near Achilles)
Injury to surrounding nerves
Post-op Achilles weakness
F&Q'sHaglund deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. It can cause irritation, pain, and swelling—especially when wearing tight or stiff shoes.
Yes, many cases improve with conservative care like shoe modifications and stretching.
No. Some people have the deformity without symptoms—pain arises with inflammation or irritation.
The bony bump won’t go away, but pain and inflammation can be managed or reduced.
Soft backs or open-heeled shoes
Avoid rigid heel counters
Cushioned soles and arch support
Full recovery may take 3–6 months, longer if the Achilles is involved.