Haglund's Syndrome

Symptoms

Achilles bursitis:

• Pain at the back of the heels especially when running uphill or on soft surfaces.
• Tenderness and swelling which might make it difficult to wear certain shoes on the feet.
• When pressing fingers in both sides of the heel a spongy resistance may be felt.

Achilles tendinitis:

• Pain in the achiiles tendon at the back of the ankle.
• Pain at the onset of exercise which fades as the exercise progresses.
• Tenderness on palpation.

Haglund's Deformity

Retrocalcaneus bursitis is inflammation of the bursa at the back of the heel bone and Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon.

Over time a bony growth can appear at the back of the heel bone. This growth is called an exostosis (a benign cartilaginous growth) and is known as Haglund's deformity.

Treatment

• Involves treating both injuries or conditions.
• See achilles tendinitis and retrocalcaneus bursitis for more information.
• An initial period of rest, cold therapy and anti-inflammatory medications is usually recommended.
• Gently stretching the calf muscles should help.
• Wearing a calf raise on a temporary basis can help ease the strain on the tendon.