Prof Lyndon Mason
Prof Lyndon Mason
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Haglund's Deformity Excision (excision of Heel bone spur)

What is a Haglund's deformity and why is surgery required some of the time?

Haglund’s deformity is a bony prominence at the back of the heel where the Achilles tendon attaches. It can cause pain, swelling and irritation, particularly with shoes that rub the back of the heel or when it irritates the Achilles tendon, especially when going uphill. When symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment, Haglund’s excision may be recommended to remove the bony prominence and relieve pressure on the tendon and surrounding tissues.

What does the operation involve?

  • The procedure is usually performed as a day-case under general or regional anaesthetic.
     
  • An incision is made at the back or side of the heel.
     
  • The prominent bone (Haglund’s deformity) is carefully removed.
     
  • If the Achilles tendon is inflamed or partially degenerated, this may be addressed at the same time.
     
  • In some cases, a small part of the tendon is temporarily lifted and then securely reattached using anchors.
     
  • The wound is closed and a protective dressing or boot applied.
     

Your surgeon will explain whether your procedure involves bone excision alone or bone excision with Achilles tendon repair, as this influences recovery time.



haglund's excision Consent Information

Consent Form Haglands Excision (docx)

Download

Post Surgical Recovery

Immediate post operative period (0-2 weeks)

  • The foot is protected in a boot or cast, depending on tendon involvement.
     
  • Elevation is important to control swelling.
     
  • Weight-bearing may be limited or protected initially.
     
  • Stitches are removed around 10–14 days.

2-6 weeks after surgery

  • Gradual progression of weight-bearing in the boot as advised.
     
  • Swelling and stiffness are common and expected.
     
  • Gentle range-of-motion exercises may begin if appropriate.

6-12 weeks after surgery

  • Transition from boot to normal footwear as comfort allows.
     
  • Physiotherapy focuses on strength, flexibility and gait.
     
  • Walking distances gradually increase.

Longer term (3-6 months and beyond)

  • Continued improvement in pain and swelling.
     
  • Return to low-impact exercise such as cycling or swimming.
     
  • Heel comfort in shoes continues to improve.
     
  • Return to higher-impact activities or sport once strength and tendon comfort allow after 6 months.
     

Recovery is longer if Achilles tendon repair is required, and your surgeon will tailor advice to your procedure.

Outcomes

Before Surgery

  • Pain and swelling at the back of the heel
  • Difficulty wearing shoes that rub the heel
  • Pain with walking, especially uphill or after activity
  • Achilles tendon irritation

After Surgery

  • Reduced heel pain and pressure
  • Improved comfort in footwear
  • Less Achilles irritation
  • Improved walking tolerance
  • Long-term symptom improvement in most patients

Long term success

  • Most patients experience lasting relief once healing is complete.
  • Recovery can take several months, especially if the Achilles tendon was involved.
  • Supportive footwear and gradual return to activity improve long-term outcomes.

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Contact to arrange an appointment

Prof Mason has clinics at Spire Liverpool (weekly) and in Douglas, Isle of Man (every 3 months)


Cost - 

Initial consultation - £250

Follow-up - £150

Prof Lyndon Mason

Spire Liverpool Hospital, 57 Greenbank Rd, Liverpool L18 1HQ, UK

Patient Liaison - Clare van de Waal Telephone - 07717580737 E-mail - CVDWclerical@outlook.com Website - <<https://liverpoolfootandankle.com/<<

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