What is it?

Haglund’s Deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel(s). To some extent, hereditary plays a role in Haglund’s Deformity as inherited foot structures can make one prone to developing this condition such as:

• A high arched foot
• A tight Achilles tendon
• A tendency to walk on the outside of the foot

The bony deformity of often not painful, however the soft tissues near the Achilles tendon become irritated when these bony enlargements rub against shoes. This often leads to painful bursitis, or tendonitis. Rigid shoes such as ice skates, rollerblades, men’s dress shoes or women’s pumps are more problematic.

4 Life Podiatry

Treatment for Haglund’s Deformity is almost always non-surgical and our Podiatrists are experts in managing this condition. A range of treatment options are available depending upon the presentation, including:

• Heel lifts to reduce the pressures on the heel
• Custom Orthotics to control the motion of the foot
• Modification to shoes to minimise irritation
• Exercises to relieve tension in the Achilles tendon
• Physical therapy to reduce inflammation
• Immobilisation in severe cases.

Prevention & Home Management Strategies

Where Haglund’s Deformity has resulted in inflammation to the soft tissues, such as bursitis, apply RICE:

• Rest the affected area
• Ice for 20 minutes up to every two hours, but at least twice daily
• Compression stockings and bandages can assist to reduce inflammation
• Elevation of the foot above the heart when resting