Women: Still think high heels are worth it?

It’s not what fashion-conscious women want to hear: Another warning about high heels.

Pump-style shoes often cause significant pain by irritating a common bony deformity on the back of the heel called ‘pump bump.’ In many cases, it can lead to bursitis or Achilles tendonitis if left untreated.

'Pump bump' is common in young women who wear high heels almost every day. The rigid back of a pump-style shoe can create pressure that aggravates the heel bone when walking. The bump or bony protrusion is a hereditary deformity that can cause Achilles tendonitis or bursitis due to constant irritation from pump-style shoes. Those with high arches or tight Achilles tendons are especially vulnerable to developing pump bump if they work in high heels.

The medical term for this disorder is Haglund’s deformity. In addition to the noticeable bump, symptoms include pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel, swelling in the back of the heel and redness to the area.

In most women, doctors can prescribe medications to reduce the pain and inflammation and/or dispense stretching exercises to alleviate the tension in the Achilles tendon. This does not, however, get rid of the bony protrusion. Long-term, it’s best to avoid wearing high heels, if possible.

When the dress code requires high heels, heel lifts to decrease pressure on the heel is recommended or dress shoes with soft backs or are backless would be recommended.

Women with foot pain can contact the office at 440-946-5858 for more information on "pump bump" and/or other foot and ankle conditions.