Abstract

Introduction. Haglund’s deformity is an inflammation of the bursa in the posterior calcaneus, posing a significant challenge in orthopedic care. This study examines the effectiveness of combining laser therapy with either eccentric or concentric exercises in managing Haglund’s deformity, a bony enlargement on the heel that causes pain and discomfort. Eccentric and concentric exercises are commonly used in rehabilitation to improve tendon function and reduce symptoms.

Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of eccentric exercises with laser therapy versus concentric exercises with laser therapy in reducing pain and enhancing functionality in people with Haglund’s deformity.

Materials and methods. A total of 30 subjects with Haglund’s deformity were randomly selected for this study. Inclusion criteria: participants aged 20 to 35 years of both genders diagnosed with Haglund’s deformity. Exclusion criteria: history of foot fractures, open wounds in the hindfoot area, or non-cooperative behavior. Participants were divided into two groups: Group A (laser therapy with eccentric exercises) and Group B (laser therapy with concentric exercises), with 15 individuals in each group. For both groups, pre-test results from the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Score (AOFAS) and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) were documented. Treatment intervention consisted of 3 weeks of exercises (3 sets per session, 15 reps per set, 5 days a week).

Results. The post-treatment mean NPRS value for Group A was 4.87, whereas it was 6.53 for Group B. The post-treatment mean AOFAS for Group A was 79.33, whereas it was 63.33 for Group B. It was discovered that Group A was more effective in reducing discomfort and enhancing function in individuals with Haglund’s deformity.

Conclusion. The study concluded that the combination of laser therapy with eccentric exercises was more successful than laser therapy with concentric exercises in reducing pain and improving functionality for Haglund’s deformity.

Key words

concentric exercises, eccentric exercises, Haglund’s deformity, laser therapy, pain management