Haglund’s Deformity

Anatomy

A Haglund’s Deformity is a bony protrusion that develops on the back of the heel bone (Calcaneus). Sitting between the Calcaneus and the Achilles Tendon, as this bone growth develops, it can begin to rub off the back of the Achilles Tendon. It can lead to pain and inflammation in the tendon and the back of the ankle bone.

Symptoms

Haglund’s Deformity can cause pain and swelling on the back of the ankle when walking or if there is pressure directly on the deformity.

Patients report a burning and sharp sensation of pain that can be worse when walking uphill or running, while the most commonly observed symptom is pain when walking after rest.

A Haglund’s Deformity in isolation does not cause a typical pattern of stiffness in the morning that is associated with Achilles Tendonitis. Still, it is common to have both a Haglund’s Deformity and Achilles Tendonitis simultaneously.

Treatment

Home Treatment

• Icing for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily
• Take anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen
• Wear cushioned shoes with a heel raise
• Rest from uphill and impact activity
• Reduce step count as much as possible

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is the best form of treatment for Haglund’s Deformity. Following a physical examination, muscular imbalances that may be exacerbating your symptoms will be identified. A Therapist can create a thorough rehabilitation programme of stretches, strengthening and stability exercises to improve your foot and ankle control. This is essential for pain relief and reducing the risk of further symptom deterioration.

Orthotics and insoles are effective treatment methods for Haglund’s Deformity. Depending on your foot position and control, an off-the-shelf insole may be sufficient, or a custom-made insole may be required.

A conversation with your Physical Therapist about footwear options is an essential aspect of treatment, and a clinician who regularly treats foot and ankle conditions should be able to provide numerous footwear options.

Injections and Surgery

An injection can be a suitable alternative in cases that fail to settle with Physical Therapy. A corticosteroid injection that is ultrasound guided is effective in reducing inflammation and pain levels. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, a period of 1-2 weeks in a walker boot may be recommended before recommencing Physical Therapy.

Surgery may be recommended if you try 6 months of conservative treatment and symptoms continue to impact your quality of life. Surgery can be in the form of an osteotomy or Gastrocnemius lengthening.

Can you run with Haglund’s Deformity?

Yes, you can run with Haglund’s Deformity, as you likely have had the condition for a very long time. If you have Haglund’s Deformity without symptoms, you do not need to modify your running routine.

If you have mild symptoms during or after running, you should take steps to manage it with our suggested home treatment.

If you have severe symptoms, you can still run, but consider taking longer breaks between runs of up to 3 days, avoiding hill training and cross-training with cycling and swimming.

Physiotherapy with James McCormack

This article is written by James McCormack, a Lower Limb Specialist who is an expert in treating Haglund’s Deformity.

This is not medical advice. We recommend a consultation with a medical professional such as James McCormack if you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this article. James offers Online Physiotherapy Appointments weekly and face-to-face appointments in his London clinic.