Haglund’s Deformity
Haglund’s Deformity (also known as “pump bump” or “retrocalcaneal bursitis”) is a painful enlargement of the back of the heel bone that becomes irritated by shoes.
It normally appears as a red, painful, and swollen area in the back of the heel bone. Women tend to develop the condition more than men because of the irritation from rigid heel counters of shoes rubbing up and down on the back of the heel bone.
Changing shoes, soaking feet, and anti-inflammatory medications often mitigate the symptoms of this problem. Consult with your physician before taking any medications.
Heel Callus
Heel calluses, also called plantar calluses, develop when one metatarsal bone is longer or lower than the others and it hits the ground with more force than it is equipped to handle-at every step. As a result, the skin under this bone thickens like a rock in your shoe. The callus causes irritation and pain.
Heel Fissures
Heel fissures, or cracking of the skin of the heels, is an often painful condition that can cause bleeding. Open-backed sandals or shoes, which allow more slippage around the heel while walking, are often the culprits. The skin thickens as a result of the friction. Skin lotions can help with reducing the dryness associated with the condition.
Plantar Fasciitis (heel spur)
Plantar fasciitis (or heel pain) is commonly traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. Our practice can evaluate arch pain, and may prescribe customized shoe inserts called orthoses to help alleviate the pain.
Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Also called “heel spur syndrome,” the condition can usually be successfully treated with conservative measures such as use of anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. In some cases where these conservative measures fail, endoscopic surgical release of the ligament is preformed through a tiny incision in the heel.