Why Do I Have a Painful Lump on My Heel?

A painful lump on your heel can interfere with your ability to walk, exercise, or even stand comfortably. If you’ve noticed swelling, tenderness, or a hard bump forming behind your heel, it could be more than just irritation — it may be a sign of an underlying foot condition that requires professional care.

At the NYC practice of Stuart J. Mogul, DPM, FACFAS, we understand that foot and ankle pain can quickly impact your quality of life. With over 25 years of experience in foot and ankle surgery, Dr. Mogul is a trusted specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions that cause heel pain, swelling, and mobility limitations.

Common Causes of a Lump on the Heel

Several issues can cause a noticeable lump or pain near the back of the heel. Understanding the root of the problem is key to getting the right treatment.

1. Haglund’s Deformity (Pump Bump)

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon attaches. It often develops from repetitive pressure, especially in people who wear stiff-backed shoes or high heels. It can lead to inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues and a visible bump.

2. Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects your calf muscle to your heel. Overuse or stress on this tendon can cause it to become inflamed, resulting in pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling or a lump near its insertion point. Without treatment, Achilles tendonitis can worsen and lead to partial tearing.

3. Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

There’s a small fluid-filled sac (bursa) between your Achilles tendon and the heel bone. When irritated, it can become inflamed — a condition called retrocalcaneal bursitis — causing pain and swelling behind the heel.

4. Heel Spurs

A heel spur is a calcium deposit that forms on the heel bone, often due to long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. While commonly associated with plantar fasciitis, spurs can also develop at the back of the heel and contribute to pain and swelling in that area.

5. Cysts or Soft Tissue Masses

Occasionally, lumps behind the heel may be caused by ganglion cysts or other benign growths. These are typically soft but can cause discomfort depending on their size and location.

When to See a Foot Specialist

Pain in your foot or ankle — especially if it limits your movement or interferes with daily activities — should not be ignored. Left untreated, conditions like Achilles tendonitis or bone deformities can worsen and lead to chronic problems or more invasive treatment later.

You should seek care from a foot and ankle specialist if you experience:

• A painful or hard lump behind the heel
• Swelling or redness around the back of the ankle
• Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot
• Pain that worsens with activity or doesn’t improve with rest

Expert Heel Pain Treatment in NYC

Dr. Stuart J. Mogul is a board-certified foot surgeon who provides minimally invasive surgical procedures and personalized treatment plans. Whether you’re an athlete with overuse injuries or simply someone looking for lasting relief from heel pain, Dr. Mogul offers advanced diagnostics and surgical expertise to restore your mobility.

He also performs cosmetic foot surgeries to address deformities that may affect both appearance and function. Patients from across NYC and beyond choose Dr. Mogul for his precision techniques, reduced recovery times, and outstanding outcomes.

Get Relief from Heel Pain Today

Don’t let a painful lump on your heel keep you from living your life. If you’re dealing with discomfort, swelling, or a visible bump behind your heel, contact the office of Dr. Stuart Mogul in New York City today. Get the expert evaluation and treatment you need — and take your first step toward pain-free movement.