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Pump Bumps

It is an abnormality which affects the heel bone and the soft tissue around it. Its predominant sign is an enlarged bony section at the outer aspect of the back of the heel, which leads to the soft tissue on the heel becoming irritated due to the rubbing of skin against the inside of shoes.

When the sac – which contains lubricating fluid between the tendon and bone – becomes irritated, this problem can lead to bursitis.

Causes

It is thought to be caused by the shape of some people’s heel bone which over time can lead to symptoms described above.

Symptoms

Pump bumps can develop in just one foot or both feet. The predominant symptoms are; a bony bump at the back of the heel on the outside; redness where tissue is inflamed; swelling of the bursa; and pain.

Treatment

In some cases, pump bumps can be diagnosed via a physical examination, which looks at the appearance of the heel. But because pump bump symptoms can also be present in other foot conditions, sometimes imaging tests such as x-ray can be used as part of the diagnostic process.

There is a wide range of non-surgical treatment options for pump bumps, including; indirect, daily ice treatment; changing to looser or open back shoes; soft tissue massage; wearing a boost or cast; ultrasound treatment; and customised orthotics which have the ability to stabilise the feet and reduce pressure. Over the counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can relieve pain. A silicon heel sock can be cheaply purchased online which helps some people.

Surgery can be advisable when non-invasive treatments have proven ineffective. Procedures are usually focused on the removal of excess bone from the outer part of the heel. This achieves the reduction of pressure on the bursa and soft tissue. Stitches following these procedures are typically removed within two weeks before a gradual resumption of normal activity can commence.

As with all foot surgery, it is normal for swelling to persist for some months after surgery and is completely normal. This swelling will eventually completely subside with time and can take up to 12 months but often goes well before this.

As with all foot surgery, it is common for swelling to persist for some months after surgery and is completely normal. This swelling will eventually completely subside with time and can take up to 12 months but often goes well before this.

Ankle pain can be distressing, especially if you're not sure what options are open to you. If you're wondering if surgery could help you, book an appointment.

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Mr Ajis is a great surgeon, he listens to any concern you may have and explains what is going to happen also gives great care... He suggested a fairly new procedure that wasn't available on the NHS but he pushed me through and he and his team have worked wonders, I am now healing very well and pain-free in my ankle after 6 years!

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Written by a patient at BMI Goring Hall Hospital

I saw Mr Ajis after sustaining a fracture of my 5th metatarsal which had not healed after a year. The pain was unbearable. He saw me promptly and took the time to explain my condition with the help of x-ray images with assurances that he could fix the problem. I was advised by other clinicians to be patient and wait for the fracture to heal on its own. Mr Ajis said that healing would be highly unlikely without intervention. After numerous emails and 'phone calls to him he constantly...

...spent the time reassuring me and patiently going over the intended procedure. To date after seeking advice and guidance from Mr Ajis, his secretary and the Physio Team and the insertion of a plate my fracture has united I walk well, without pain and I have joined a walking group.