haglund's deformity in Scottsdale, AZ
Have you ever heard the term “pump bump”? If you have, it refers to Haglund’s deformity, which is a condition that causes the bone section of your heel to become enlarged or inflamed. This bony section of your heel is commonly known as the Achilles tendon, and wearing shoes that place too much pressure on the back of the heel is the most common cause of Haglund’s deformity in Scottsdale and other areas.

Untreated Haglund’s deformity can lead to bursitis, which is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac that separates the tendon from the bone. When the heel becomes inflamed, it can calcify the heel bone, causing a bump to become more prominent–and quite painful. As the condition goes untreated, the pain can become more noticeable while affecting basic foot function.

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What are the Causes of Haglund’s Deformity?

The rigid backs of “pump-style” shoes typically cause Haglund’s deformity in Scottsdale, AZ. This is because the shoes create pressure that aggravates the growth during normal activities, like walking. While poor shoe choice can lead to Haglund’s deformity, some other factors can also contribute to the formation, such as:

  • Having a high-arched foot
  • Having a tight Achilles tendon
  • Poor walking mechanics

Haglund’s Deformity Symptoms

Haglund’s deformity is typically very painful—especially in the area where the growth is located on the heel. Some of the other common symptoms of Haglund’s deformity include:

  • Noticeable bump on the back of the heel
  • Severe pain in the heel
  • Swelling in the heel
  • Redness or tenderness near the inflamed area

Pay attention to these symptoms, and contact Dr. Mark Forman, our podiatrist in Scottsdale, for further care.

Diagnosis & Treatment Options in Scottsdale for Haglund’s Deformity

Haglund’s deformity symptoms are so similar to those of other common foot conditions it can often be difficult to diagnose. Dr. Forman, our foot doctor in Scottsdale, may be able to diagnose this condition based on the appearance of your heel. However, some cases require further diagnostic and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treating Haglund’s deformity in Scottsdale involves relieving pressure from the heel bone. This can be accomplished surgically or non-surgically but will be determined by the severity of your symptoms. For mild to moderate Haglund’s deformity, the following non-surgical treatments may be performed:

  • Shoe changes
  • NSAID pain relievers
  • Soft-tissue massage
  • Custom orthotics
  • Heel pads or cushions
  • Anti-inflammatory injections

If non-surgical options are ineffective, our podiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ, Dr. Forman, may recommend a surgical procedure to relieve pressure from the heel bone. This can be done by removing excess bone from the heel or smoothing existing bone. These procedures are very effective in relieving pressure from the bone and surrounding soft tissues.

Contact Dr. Mark Forman at Put Your Feet First in Scottsdale, AZ for Haglund’s deformity information and treatment options.