Pump Bumps (Haglund’s Deformity)

​Pump Bumps, or Haglund’s Deformity is a condition wherein a bony bump or enlargement on the back of the heel forms. This may lead to pain and irritation if the area rubs up against any type of footwear. The name “pump bump” comes from the common occurrence of wearing “pump” style shoes that many women wear; therefore women who wear this type of shoe are the most common sufferers of this condition.
Causes:
Most causes of pump bumps are structural.  They can be inherited at birth and cause problems. Other factors may include injuries, weight increase, and various activities; especially sports. Any type of commonly-worn footwear that has a rigid back and/or footwear that creates constant friction against the back of the heel with frequent wear may lead to Haglund’s Deformity.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of Haglund’s deformity can include, but are not limited to:

• A bony bump or protrusion on the back of the heel
• Inflamed tissue or swelling at the location of the bump
• Tightness/stiffness in the Achilles tendon
• Severe Achilles tendon/heel pain

Treatment:
There are many types of treatments for pump bumps, including preventative and non-invasive measures as well as surgical removal.
Some non-invasive treatment include:

• The RICE method can be used to both treat and prevent symptoms of Haglund’s Deformity. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Typically, inflammation is the first symptom that people suffering from pump bumps notice.  Start treating inflammation in the early stages, using the RICE method and/or by taking anti-inflammatory medication.
• Try to stop doing the activity or wearing the shoe that is causing the pain.
• Wear different shoes that will not cause constant friction or pressure to the back of the heel.
• See a foot care specialist for therapeutic treatment(s) such as ultrasound, laser or massage.
• Wear a heel pad or invest in custom-made orthotics to help manage the deformity.

In more severe cases, invasive measures may be used. Injections for pain relief or surgical removal/treatment may be discussed on a case-to-case basis with a foot specialist. In most cases Haglund’s Deformity can be prevented or resolved without the interference of invasive procedures.
 
If you, or anyone you know might be suffering from pump bumps, schedule an appointment with us! We would love to help you!  If you have any additional problems, questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at (519) 884-3668 or info@waterloofootclinic.com