Dealing with Pump Bump
Fashions change with the seasons, and if you find that wearing pumps to go with your fall wardrobe is causing pain to the back of your heel, you may be experiencing Haglund’s deformity—more commonly known as “Pump Bump.” At Pasco Hernando Foot & Ankle, this is a condition that we see and treat often.
Causes
Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement at the back of the heel. Wearing pumps, and other high, stiff-backed shoe styles or short boots can cause this irritation. There are other underlying hereditary structural foot issues; however, that can make you more prone to Haglund’s deformity. These include:
Tight Achilles tendon
High arches
Tendency to walk on the outside of your heel
This deformity may occur in one or both feet. In addition to a noticeable bump at the back of your heel, you may experience pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel, along with swelling and redness. In some cases, the soft tissue at the base of the tendon becomes so irritated that it also results in bursitis.
Getting Relief
If you are suffering from the back of the heel pain, contact our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799 and come to see our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales. Fortunately, several non-invasive treatment options can reduce your discomfort, such as:
Pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and icing the back of the heel may be recommended to decrease pain and swelling.
Choosing different shoes. Look for styles with lower or no backs. Picking shoes made of soft, flexible fabrics will also help.
Heel lifts and pads. Lifts can decrease heel pressure in high-arched patients. Strategically placed pads can protect the vulnerable area and reduce pressure on the protrusion. Custom orthotics may also help reposition the foot.
Exercises and physical therapy. These can help to stretch the Achilles tendon.
Immobilization. In some cases, this is necessary to allow healing to occur.
Although these treatments will not shrink the bony protrusion, they can relieve the inflammation that is the source of much pain.
Don’t suffer needlessly. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Haglund’s deformity, contact us today.