Haglund

Hagl is a surname of Swedish origin. In medical terminology, Haglund's deformity refers to a bony enlargement at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. It is also known as retrocalcaneal exostosis or a pump bump.

The deformity results in a prominent bony spur on the posterior calcaneus that can irritate surrounding soft tissues, leading to pain and inflammation, particularly with shoe pressure. It often presents with swelling and tenderness at the back of the heel, and may be associated with bursitis or insertional Achilles tendinopathy.

Causes and risk factors include wearing rigid or poorly fitted footwear with stiff heel counters, repetitive stress from athletic activities, and tight calf muscles. These factors can contribute to the development of the bony prominence and surrounding soft tissue irritation.

Symptoms typically include posterior heel pain that worsens with shoe wear, swelling, warmth, and a visible or palpable prominence at the heel. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and imaging. X-rays assess the size and location of the bony prominence; ultrasound or MRI can evaluate soft tissue involvement such as bursitis or tendinopathy.

Treatment usually begins with conservative measures. These include footwear modification, use of heel lifts or padding, ice, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy to improve ankle flexibility and Achilles tendon conditioning. If symptoms persist despite nonoperative treatment or there is significant deformity, surgery may be considered to remove the bony prominence and address surrounding tissue. Surgical options range from exostectomy to decompression or repair as indicated.

Prognosis varies with the severity of deformity and soft tissue involvement. Many patients improve with conservative care, while surgical outcomes depend on proper patient selection and postoperative rehabilitation.