Treat Haglund Deformity With The Expertise Of Our Podiatrists
If you are suffering from the pain and discomfort of a Haglund deformity, look no further than Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney for the treatment you need. Our experienced podiatrists have the expertise and training to properly assess and diagnose your condition, as well as provide you with the most effective treatments available. Our podiatrists can provide you with the highest quality of care, whether you need conservative treatments, such as orthotics and shoe modification, or more advanced treatments such as surgery.
What You Need To Know About Haglund Deformity
Haglunds deformity is a condition that affects the back of the heel bone (calcaneus), causing it to become enlarged and sticks out abnormally. This deformity feels like a bony bump on the back of your heel and can show signs of redness, tenderness, and swelling. This deformity usually results from repetitive motion or trauma to the back of the heel, usually from wearing tight or stiff-backed shoes. Symptoms of this condition can include:
- A bump on the back of the heel, near the Achilles tendon
- Pain and tenderness at the back of the heel
- Pain and difficulty when wearing shoes, especially ones with a hard or rigid back
- Redness and warmth on the back of the heel
- Swelling in the area of the bump
- Pain and difficulty walking
- Blisters and callouses may develop on or around the bump
When left untreated, this condition can develop into bursitis, which is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that normally provides cushion for the tendons, bones, and muscles in order to reduce friction and act as a shock absorber. As the Haglund deformity increases in size, the bursa located between the Achilles tendon and heel bone will rapidly become irritated and inflamed.
What Are The Risk Factors For Haglund Deformity?
The exact cause of Haglund deformity is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of several factors. Possible risk factors include:
- A genetic predisposition or family history of Haglund deformity
- Certain foot structures, such as a high arch or a tight Achilles tendon
- Wearing stiff-back shoes, such as pumps, dress shoes, ice skates, or work boots
It is possible to reduce the risk of developing Haglund deformity by wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes with adequate cushioning and to avoid placing excessive pressure on the heel bone. Additionally, stretching and strengthening the calf muscles can help keep the Achilles tendon flexible and reduce the risk of Haglund deformity.
Our Board-Certified Podiatrists Can Treat Your Haglund Deformity
Treatment for Haglund deformity typically involves reducing the inflammation and pain around the affected area. This can be accomplished through a combination of stretching exercises, shoe modifications, and wearing inserts or orthotics. In moderate to severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the extra bone in order to reduce the pain.
Haglund deformity can be painful and uncomfortable, but with the right treatment, the pain and swelling can be managed. Conservative treatment plans for Haglund deformity typically include:
- Resting and icing your foot
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Stretching exercises
- Physical therapy
- Heel pads to reduce irritation
- Heel lifts to decrease pressure on the bone for people with high arches
- Backless or soft-backed shoes
- Night splints
- Cast or soft boot to immobilize your foot