Final answer:
The athlete's symptoms—a bump on the back of the heel that is red, swollen, and painful—are indicative of Haglund's deformity, commonly aggravated by certain types of footwear.
Step-by-step explanation:
The athlete is likely experiencing symptoms consistent with Haglund's deformity, which is also known as "pump bump." This condition is characterized by a bony enlargement on the back of the heel that becomes red, swollen, and painful, particularly when certain types of footwear, such as stiff shoes, apply pressure to the area.
The symptoms described by the athlete—redness, swelling, and pain aggravated by new shoes—typify the irritation that footwear can cause to this bony protrusion. Treatment often includes wearing open-backed shoes to relieve pressure, applying ice to reduce swelling, taking over-the-counter pain relievers for comfort, and in some cases, seeking physical therapy. If the condition persists, the athlete may need to consult an orthopedic specialist for further evaluation and potential intervention.