Haglunds
What is it?
Haglunds deformity is a condition occurring at the back of the heel, from an enlargement of the heel bone.
The heel bone (calcaneus) attaches to the Achilles tendon. Between the bone and tendon is a sac of fluid called a bursa. When this bursa becomes inflamed it will cause pain in the back of the heel.
Causes
- Irritation of the bursa occurs when the bony enlargement rubs against the shoe
- Shoes with a rigid back, (for example, pumps, Mens dress shoes, or court shoes) can increase pressure on the heel which aggravates the heel.
- Foot shape can also increase risk of haglunds. (High arched foot or tight achilles)
Symptoms
- Pain at the back of the heel
- Callus may also form over time
- Bursa can also become inflamed causing bursitis
Treatment
- We are fortunate in our clinic to partner with YouNext Healthcare and exclusively offer customised 3d printed Haglunds Protector to reduced the pressure on the back of the heel. See the video below for more information.
- Footwear advice- wear backless shoes or shoes with a soft back
- Laser therapy for any inflammation may help
- Heel lifts to lift foot in the shoe and relieve pressure
- Exercises for Achilles tendon if the Achilles is tight
- If these treatments do not help then surgery may be considered