HAGLUND’S DEFORMITY
WHAT IS HAGLUND’S DEFORMITY?
Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel. The soft tissue near the Achilles tendon becomes irritated when the bony enlargement rubs against shoes. This often leads to painful bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac between the tendon and bone). Any shoes with a rigid back, such as ice skates, men’s dress shoes or women’s pumps, can cause this irritation. To some extent, heredity plays a role in Haglund’s deformity.
TREATMENT:
Nonsurgical treatment of Haglund’s deformity is aimed at reducing the inflammation of the bursa. While these approaches can resolve the pain and inflammation, they will not shrink the bony protrusion. Nonsurgical treatment can include one or more of the following: oral anti-inflammatories, aggressive stretching, heel lifts, heel pads, shoe modifications, physical therapy, orthotic devices, and immobilization. If nonsurgical treatment fails to provide adequate pain relief, surgery may be needed. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the procedure that is best suited to your case. It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for postsurgical care.
