• Red area at the back of heel
• A noticeable bump on the back of heel.
• Pain in the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel.
• Swelling in the back of the heel.

Treatment of Haglund’s deformity can be divided into nonsurgical treatment and surgical treatment. In the vast majority of cases, treatment usually begins with nonsurgical measures. In mild cases, this inflammation and projection of bone at the back of the heel can be relieved with ice, compression, change of shoe gear, Achilles Heel pads, heel grip pads and tortoise. Non-surgical treatment of Haglund’s deformity is aimed at reducing the inflammation of the bursa. In many cases where the bone is enlarged surgical excision is required. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine the procedure that is best suited to your case. Cortisone injections can also help relieve the pain. Many surgeons simply remove the bump. This procedure is done through a small incision on the back of the heel. Another way to accomplish the same thing is to take out a wedge of bone from the calcaneus, shortening it. This is referred to by surgeons as a wedge osteotomy.

The patient may require crutches for a few days after surgery. A physical therapist or nurse may teach you how to properly use your crutches. A recurrence of Haglund’s deformity may be prevented by performing stretching exercises to prevent the Achilles tendon from tightening, wearing appropriate shoes; avoid pumps and high-heeled shoes and voiding running on hard surfaces and running uphill.

Stress fractures that don’t heal properly can develop into complete breaks of the bone and can become a chronic problem; therefore, it is better to prevent them in the first place. Here’s what you can do:

* Slowly increase any new sports activity. Gradually increase time, speed and distance; a 10 percent increase per week is fine.
* Maintain a healthful diet. Eat calcium and vitamin D-rich foods to help build bone strength.
* Alternate your activities. For example, you can alternate jogging with swimming or cycling.
* If pain or swelling returns, stop the activity. Rest for a few days. If pain continues, see an orthopaedist.
* Strength training can help prevent early muscle fatigue and prevent the loss of bone density that comes with aging.