What is it?
Insertional Achilles tendinopathy affects the point where the tendon attaches to the back of the heel bone. It is often linked to a bony bump called a Haglund's deformity and an inflamed fluid sac (bursa) between the tendon and the bone.
What causes it?
- A prominent bump on the back of the heel bone.
- A tight calf.
- Overuse.
- Pressure from the back of shoes.
Common symptoms
- Pain and tenderness at the back of the heel.
- A visible bump that rubs on shoes.
- Swelling, and pain after rest or with activity.
How is it diagnosed?
Your surgeon will examine the heel, and X-rays show bony bumps or spurs. Ultrasound or MRI shows the condition of the tendon and bursa.
Things you can do now
- Wear shoes with a soft or open back to avoid pressure on the bump
- Use a heel lift in both shoes
- Do heel-raise exercises on flat ground rather than off a step
- Avoid hill running for a while
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include shoes with soft or open backs, heel lifts, adapted physiotherapy exercises, shockwave therapy and surgery to remove the bump and inflamed tissue and repair the tendon.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pain where the Achilles meets the heel lasts more than three months
- A bony lump at the back of the heel keeps rubbing
- Everyday walking is painful
What to expect
Non-surgical treatment helps many people. When it doesn't, surgery to remove the bony bump and repair the tendon is effective, although recovery takes several months.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about insertional Achilles pain & Haglund's deformity in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with insertional Achilles pain & Haglund's deformity at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.