Pump Bump (Haglund’s Deformity/Bony Heel)

A bony enlargement at the back of the heel is commonly called a “pump bump.” This bony bump on the heel is named a pump bump after high-heels or pumps, which are frequently to blame for this condition. 

What causes a bump on the back of the heel?

Haglund’s deformity tends to run in families. Likewise, individuals who have high arches, or walk on the outside of the heel are more likely to develop this bony protrusion. However, it is believed that tight, rigid footwear is most often the culprit.

This bony heel forms where your Achilles tendon attaches to your heel. When the Achilles tendon becomes irritated and inflamed, it may lead to bursitis. Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sac between the tendon and bone becomes inflamed. This can cause calcium to build up in your heel bone creating the protrusion.

Do I need to see a doctor for a pump bump?

If a pump bump isn’t causing you any pain, you don’t need to see a podiatrist. However, without treatment, this condition tends to become painful and may even make walking difficult. If you are experiencing pain from a pump bump, schedule an appointment with Ohio Foot and Ankle specialists.  Many times, pain from Haglund’s deformity can be treated without surgery.

Does Haglund’s deformity go away?

Without treatment, the bump on your heel likely will not go away.  However, conservative, non-surgical treatment will help most people. They won’t make the bump go away, but they can reduce the pain associated with Haglund’s deformity. 

How do you treat pump bumps?

At Ohio Foot and Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists treat all foot and ankle conditions with non-surgical methods, wherever possible. It is only when non-surgical treatments fail, that our expert podiatrists will recommend surgery.

Non-surgical treatment of Haglund’s deformity includes:

• Change in footwear
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Icing
• Rest/reducing activity
• Custom orthotics
• Heel pads
• Ultrasound treatment

If surgery is needed, our top Ohio podiatrists will utilize the latest surgical techniques for treating pump bump. The excess bone will be removed to relieve pressure on the bursa and soft tissue.