Stop Living with Chronic Heel Pain

When Heel Pain Becomes a Surgical Problem

Haglund’s deformity and Achilles tendon enthesopathy frequently occur together and are a common cause of chronic posterior heel pain. Patients often describe persistent pain at the back of the heel that worsens with walking, exercise, work, or wearing closed-back shoes—symptoms that can significantly affect daily life.

In many cases, these conditions respond to conservative care. However, when non-surgical treatments fail, the underlying mechanical problem must be addressed.

Understanding the Problem: Bone Meets Tendon

Haglund’s deformity refers to a bony enlargement on the back of the heel bone. This prominence places constant pressure on the Achilles tendon insertion, leading to chronic inflammation, degeneration, and pain—known as Achilles tendon enthesopathy.

As long as the bony impingement remains, symptoms often persist despite physical therapy, stretching, injections, orthotics, or shoe modification.

When Conservative Treatment Fails

Patients are typically considered for surgery only after exhausting appropriate non-operative options, including:

• Activity modification

• Physical therapy

• Immobilization

• Anti-inflammatory treatment

• Orthotics and footwear changes

When these measures fail to provide lasting relief, surgery may be the only option that directly corrects the cause of pain.

The Advantage of Minimally Invasive Haglund’s Surgery

Traditional open Haglund’s surgery often requires large incisions and significant soft-tissue dissection in an area known for wound-healing challenges.

Minimally invasive Haglund’s resection offers a modern alternative:

• Small, precise incisions at the back of the heel

• Minimal disruption to the Achilles tendon and surrounding tissue

• Lower risk of wound complications compared with open surgery

• Less postoperative pain related to smaller incisions

• Faster functional recovery and earlier return to work and activity for appropriately selected patients

This approach focuses on correcting the bony impingement while preserving tendon integrity whenever possible.

Specialized Expertise Matters

Minimally invasive Haglund’s surgery is technically demanding and requires advanced training, experience, and careful patient selection. Outcomes depend heavily on surgical expertise and a deep understanding of Achilles tendon biomechanics.

At River Podiatry, minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery is a core focus of board certified surgeon, Dr. Han. We routinely evaluate and treat complex heel and Achilles conditions and are recognized as one of the leading centers in the area for minimally invasive Haglund’s correction for many years.

Is Surgery Right for You?

You may be a candidate for minimally invasive Haglund’s surgery if:

• Heel pain has persisted despite months of conservative care

• Pain limits work, exercise, or daily activity

• Imaging confirms a symptomatic Haglund’s deformity with Achilles involvement

• You are seeking a surgical option that prioritizes recovery and function

Each patient is evaluated individually to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.

Take the Next Step

Chronic heel pain is not something you have to live with once conservative care has failed. A minimally invasive surgical approach may provide lasting relief and help you return to the activities that matter most.

Schedule a consultation today to determine whether minimally invasive Haglund’s surgery is right for you.