Haglund’s deformity is a painful bump on the back of the heel. This has been referred to as a "pump bump", as high heel shoes irritate this bump causing much pain. This may also medically be referred to as a retrocalcaneal exostosis. Retro means behind and calcaneal refers to the bone it involves, the calcaneous (heel bone).

Symptoms of Haglund’s deformity begin with a noticably enlarged bone prominence on the back of the heel. This may be more on one side or directly in the back. This is more commonly seen at the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to your heel. The bump may be painful especially when tight shoes are worn against the area. It may be red and swollen, or form a bursa which can become inflammed to become a bursitis.

Causes of a Haglund’s deformity are usually structural in origin. Foot structure is due to hereditary for the most part, meaning it was the way you were born. Other factors such as increase in weight, injury, improper shoes, or different activities may change the way your foot functions as well. Tight shoes or wearing shoes with a low heel counter will not cause the bump, but may cause symptoms to occur. With constant friction a bursitis may occur.

Diagnosis for a Haglund’s deformity is a very common reason for having heel pain in the back of the heel. Heel pain may be due to other types of conditions such as tendonitis, Stress Fracture, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, or low back problems. A more common condition in children is Sever’s Disease. The diagnosis is usually made with a combination of x-ray examination and symptoms.

Prevention of Haglund’s deformity may be best by finding a good supportive shoe. Wearing shoes or padding to reduce the friction in the area of the bump may decrease symptoms. Ice may work well at the times of severe pain. For a chronic pain, or longer lasting heat therapy and massage may improve the condition.