Summary
- It is a condition where there is bony enlargement on the back of the heel due to irritation if rubs against the shoes. Symptoms include a noticeable bump on the back of the heel, pain in the area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel, swelling in the back of the heel, and redness near the inflamed tissue.
How did I get this?
- Any shoes with a rigid back, such as ice skates, men’s dress shoes, or women’s pumps can cause this irritation.
What can I do about it?
- Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be taken to reduce the pain and inflammation.
- Apply an ice pack to the inflamed area for reducing the inflammation.
- Stretching exercises help relieve tension from the Achilles tendon. Heel lifts placed inside the shoe to decrease the pressure on the heel.
- Heel pads placed inside the back of the shoe to cushion the heel may help reduce irritation when walking.
- Shoe modification (Backless or soft backed shoes help avoid or minimize irritation).
What help can I get for this?
- Podiatrist may prescribe orthotics to control the motion in the foot.
- Foot and ankle surgeon if non-surgical treatment fails to provide adequate pain relief.
When will it get better?
- Nonsurgical approach control symptoms if treated early but will not shrink the bony protrusion.
- Surgical recovery time depends greatly on which procedure your surgeon performed.
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