When a simple bump on the back of the heel is referred to as Mulholland Deformity, Pump Bump and Haglund’s Deformity, one should realize that this painful bump means business! This condition develops when the bony section of the heel – where the Achilles tendon is located – becomes enlarged and inflamed and if not treated can often lead to bursitis.

Causes:

• heredity often plays a role as types of inherited foot structures such as high arches, a tight Achilles tendon or walking on the outside of the heel, make people prone to Haglund’s Deformity
• muscle tightness in the calves
• the tendency to walk on the outside of ones feet
• wearing pumps with a rigid back for a long period of time contributes to this condition, hence the term ‘pump bump’.

Symptoms:

• an inflamed bony prominence on the back of the heel
• blisters due to rubbing of the shoes on the bump
• redness and swelling in the back of the heel
• pain in the area where the Achilles tendon is joined to the heel

Treatment:

• wearing backless shoes or walking barefoot – which removes all pressure on the affected area – is one of the best ways to treat it
• the application of a bag of ice – encased in a thin towel – to the swelling
• stretching exercises to relieve the tension from the Achilles tendon
• anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain
• heel lifts to decrease the pressure on the heel
• heel and cushion pads to reduce pressure from the shoes
• ultrasound treatments
• custom orthotic supports
• in severe cases where symptoms persist, surgery may be required

Haglund’s Deformity may not sound very serious but if not treated, can make walking painful. At Syracuse Podiatry, you will receive the best and latest treatment to rid you of your pain and get you back on your feet. For this, an experienced podiatrist is a must, and who better than our board certified Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, DPM, a specialist in foot & ankle surgery serving the community of Fayetteville, NY.