What is HAGLUND’S DEFORMITY?

It is an abnormality of the bone and soft tissues in the foot. An enlargement of the bony section of the heel where the achilles tendon is inserted triggers this condition. The soft tissue near the back of the heel can become irritated when the large, bony lump rubs against rigid shoes. Haglund’s deformity is a symptomatic osseous prominence of the posterolateral corner of the calcaneus resulting in posterior heel pain and swelling around the insertion of the Achilles Tendon.

 

                                  

CAUSES

• High arch- With high arches, the heel is tilted backward into the Achilles Tendon (due to the insertion on the calcaneus). A bony protrusion develops and the bursa becomes inflamed due to the constant irritation of the back of the heel bone to rub against the tendon.

• Obesity - There is higher chance of developing Haglund's in people who are overweight. More commonly people will develop a Haglund's deformity in both heels.

• Frequent pressure on back of heel - Haglund's deformity occurs when there's frequent pressure on the backs of your heels.

•  Wearing tight shoes - It may be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or stiff in the heel. 

 

TREATMENT

Applying ice or a cold pack over the heel every 1–2 hours for 15 minutes time.

• Back heel pad- Heel cushion protects the heels by relieving excess heel pressure from ulcers and pressure sores and also helps with recovery from injuries

Heel raise- This exercise helps strengthen your calves as well as stretching your Achilles tendon. 

Calf stretch- Stretching your Achilles tendon helps reduce pressure on tender parts of your ankle near the Haglund’s bump.

Authors

Dr . P. Senthil Selvam, PhD
Professor & HOD, School of Physiotherapy, VISTAS, Chennai.

Dr .D. Hepzibah Rubella, MPT (Ortho)
Research Scholar, School of Physiotherapy, VISTAS, Chennai.

Vels Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)