What Is a Pump Bump?
A “pump bump” – medically known as Haglund’s deformity or retrocalcaneal exostosis – is a bony enlargement at the back of the heel bone (the calcaneus) where the Achilles tendon inserts. This heel bump often leads to painful inflammation of nearby tissues, especially the bursa, resulting in a commonly associated condition referred to as Haglund’s syndrome.
What Causes a Pump Bump?
Several factors may contribute to the development of Haglund’s deformity:
- Foot anatomy and genetics: A high arch or inherited foot structure can tilt your heel bone in a way that increases pressure at the back of the heel.
- Tight Achilles tendon: When tight, the tendon pulls heavily at its attachment site, promoting bone growth and inflammation.
- Foot mechanics: Walking on the outside edge of your heel (varus heel) changes tendon alignment, which increases rubbing and irritation.
- Rubbing from footwear: Shoes with stiff or rigid heel backs like pumps, dress shoes, ice skates, or work boots, can irritate the area and contribute to the condition.
Symptoms to Watch For
Signs that you may be dealing with a pump bump include:
- A visible or palpable bump at the back of the heel
- Pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the area; especially after wearing shoes or standing/walking
- Formation of calluses due to repetitive friction with footwear
Diagnosis: What to Expect
Dr. Yeargain will begin with a clinical examination, assessing your foot structure and watching your gait. Imaging tests like X-rays (and possibly diagnostic ultrasound) may be used to confirm the bony enlargement and look for any associated bursitis or tendon irritation.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
The goal of conservative treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation, though the bony bump generally remains unchanged:
- Footwear adjustments: Choose shoes with a soft, flexible heel counter that doesn’t rub the bump.
- Orthotics and heel lifts: Custom inserts or heel lifts help reduce pressure on the area.
- Anti-inflammatory measures: Use of NSAIDs, ice, stretching (especially for the Achilles tendon), and heel pads or cushions can ease symptoms.
- Physical therapy: Targeted stretches and strengthening exercises help reduce recurrence of bursitis.
- Topical treatments: At Yeargain Foot & Ankle, patients may also be offered topical sports creams such as CBD formulations to ease local inflammation.
When Surgery May Be Needed
If conservative care doesn’t bring relief after several months, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Yeargain’s surgical approach involves:
- Temporarily detaching the Achilles tendon
- Shaving down the bony prominence
- Reattaching the tendon using absorbable bone anchors
- Occasionally, lengthening the Achilles tendon to prevent future recurrence
Why Choose Dr. Yeargain in Dallas?
At Yeargain Foot & Ankle, Dr. Yeargain combines expert podiatric care with an aesthetic sensibility, thanks to his training with the University of Pittsburgh plastic surgery department. Conveniently located near downtown Dallas, the clinic offers tailored treatment plans, from conservative management to advanced surgical interventions for pump bump sufferers.
Bottom Line
Pump bump (Haglund’s deformity) can cause significant heel pain, but with early diagnosis and thoughtful care, most patients achieve relief. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or swelling at the back of your heel, book an appointment with Yeargain Foot & Ankle in Dallas. Dr. Yeargain and his team are here to help you step into comfort again.
