Short answer: A painful bump on the back of your heel may be a bone spur, commonly known as Haglund’s deformity or a pump bump. This condition often results from pressure and can lead to inflammation. It frequently affects women due to shoe styles. Custom orthotics and sometimes surgery are treatment options.
What Causes a Bone Spur on the Heel?
A bone spur on the back of the heel, often called a Haglund’s deformity or pump bump, occurs when the heel bone is subjected to excessive pressure or friction, usually from shoes. Shoes with hard backs or tight fits may repeatedly irritate the heel bone, leading to inflammation and a bony growth. Initially, this bump may appear as a slight protrusion but can grow larger over time. While anyone can be affected, women are at a higher risk due to certain shoe styles like high heels that add pressure to the heel and Achilles tendon. The condition can result in redness, swelling, and tenderness at the back of the heel.
Home Care for Heel Pain
If you’re dealing with a painful bump on the back of your heel, there are steps you can take at home to relieve the discomfort. First, switch to shoes with more cushioning or open backs to reduce pressure on the affected area. If you continue to use shoes that rub against your heel, consider applying heel pads inside the shoe to protect your heel. Icing the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Elevating your foot can also reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to manage the pain. You can also perform gentle stretching exercises to loosen a tight Achilles tendon, which may be contributing to the pressure on the heel bone.
Professional Treatments for Haglund’s Deformity
When home remedies aren’t providing sufficient relief, professional treatment may be necessary. A podiatrist will assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Custom orthotic devices are often recommended to support the foot and alleviate pressure on the heel. These are tailored to your specific foot shape to ensure they are effective. Shockwave therapy is another non-invasive treatment that may be offered to promote healing by stimulating blood flow to the affected area. If conservative treatments fail to relieve pain, minimally invasive foot surgery may be required to remove the bone spur and provide long-term relief. At DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center, our experienced team is capable of diagnosing and treating multiple foot and ankle conditions, including Haglund’s deformity.
When to See a Podiatrist
Persistent pain or swelling at the back of the heel that doesn’t improve with home care.
Difficulty walking or engaging in daily activities due to heel pain.
No improvement in symptoms after several weeks of home treatment.
Signs of an infection, such as redness, warmth, pus, or increased swelling.
If you have diabetes or poor circulation and notice any foot pain or skin changes.
If you have heel pain or notice a bump that is not improving, consulting a podiatrist can help identify the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Our team in the Houston and Cypress areas is equipped to address your foot health needs and ensure you get the care needed for lasting relief. For more information on managing foot pain, visit our Foot Pain Relief Houston page.
