Pump bump or referred to as Haglund’s Deformity is a common condition affecting people, mainly the female population. It is a condition that features benign, bony growth at the back of the heel hitting the top-most portion of the shoes when one walks. One of the common reasons for a pump bump is the ill-fitted pump-style shoes.
Symptoms of a pump bump
Some of the common symptoms of the condition are as follows:
- Redness of the heel
- Swelling and inflammation at the rear side of the heel
- Pain in the intersection of the heel and Achilles
Causes of a pump bump
Individuals who are more frequently wearing high heels tend to suffer from the condition more than others. Furthermore, it also occurs wearing shoes that are stiff or hard in the back, and are ill-fitted. Even a sneaker that is tight and puts pressure on the heel can result in the lump formation and eventually gives rise to Haglund’s Deformity. People who are more prone to suffer from the condition might have the following problems:
- Tight Achilles tendon
- High foot arch
The pump bump is also common among people who wear boots, and runners, both professional and casual. Regardless of the profession, anyone can suffer from the condition. The good news is that if diagnosed rightly on time, it can be managed easily.
Diagnosis
Getting a pump dump diagnosed is challenging since the symptoms are similar to other conditions, especially with Achilles Tendonitis. Doctors diagnose the condition with the help of X-ray scans. The X-ray scans can help to determine whether there is a large bony growth that confirms the case of a pump bump. The doctors might prescribe a personalized orthotic providing relief against heel pain and swelling and thereby stabilize the foot.
Different treatment options
A pump bump occurs mainly as a result of structural problems in the foot. Henceforth, the majority of the treatment choices are focused on changing the foot position and relieving pain. Some of the beneficial treatment options are mentioned below:
- Icing is a vital treatment option especially when the bump is sore. The patient can apply ice for 20 minutes to 40 minutes. This can help the swelling significantly.
- Doctors might prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs depending on the severity.
- Heel pads have gained immense popularity in recent years. The pads incorporate an extra cushioning layer, eliminating irritation and pain.
- Personalized orthotic device wear can help redistribute the body pressure away from the heel and also change the foot motion.
- Heel lifts can be beneficial as well by counteracting the high arches.
- When the cause is a tight Achilles Tendon, including exercises can help hand a pump bump.
- When the inflammation due to the condition is severe, a soft walking cast is recommended as it gives comfort and also allows healing gradually.
- Surgery is the last resort when all other treatment options and measures fail to provide any relief.
Conclusion
If one is careful with the choice of shoes, and by paying attention to the heel discomfort and pain, a pump bump can be avoided. Seeking immediate medical attention is recommended before the condition becomes serious and surgery remains the only treatment option.
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