WHAT IS IT?
Haglunds deformity is an abnormality of the foot that occurs on the back of the heel. It forms at that point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. It is the soft tissue near this tendon that becomes irritated (usually when wearing tightly fitting shoes) causing inflammation at the site, leading to the pain that is felt. As inflammation is aroused due to continuous friction, the body naturally creates layers of bone, called bone spurs, as a defense mechanism. This bony prominence places excessive pressure on the nearby bursa, which can in turn, lead to bursitis.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
Genetics – Persons born with naturally high foot arches have a foot structure that tends to increase pressure near the Achilles region.
Footwear – Enclosed shoes with rigid backs are by far the most common cause of Haglunds deformity. In particular, high heels place excessive pressure at the back of the heel leading to bone spur formation.
Stride/walking pattern – Any unnatural walking position causes the realignment of the heel bone. Walking on the outside of your feet can result in undue friction under the Achilles tendon leading to bony spurs.
Muscle tightness – A tight calf muscle can place pressure on the Achilles tendon causing pressure on the bursa. Excessive pressure is the leading cause of Haglunds deformity.
SYMPTOMS
- By far the main symptom is a visible bump at the back of the heel that has developed over time.
- It is accompanied by noticeable swelling and redness around the heel.
- This redness is caused by the inflammation of the bursa.
- Localized heel pain around the Achilles tendon and sometimes blisters may occur where the bump rubs against shoes.
A doctor can easily identify this deformity by observation of your feet.
TREATMENT
Non-surgical conservative treatments will be discussed at first with your doctor. Some of these may include:
- Changing the type of shoes worn, non-rigid backed shoes.
- Placement of heel lifts or heel pads placed as shoe inserts.
- Stretching exercises to relieve tight Achilles tendons.
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Physical therapy.
Surgical treatments involve removing the bony heel spur as well as tendon repair if severely damaged. Orthopaedic surgeons can perform a wide variety of operations to correct Haglunds Deformity.