Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where one of the key nerves running along the inside of your leg and ankle, called the posterior tibial nerve, becomes trapped and compressed, leading to painful symptoms.
The tarsal tunnel, named after the tarsal bones surrounding your ankle, is a narrow passage between the bones on the inside of your ankle and the soft tissues that support it. This tunnel houses the posterior tibial nerve, which branches off to provide sensation to parts of your feet. When the tunnel narrows, the nerve becomes pinched and compressed, resulting in tarsal tunnel syndrome.
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Who Is At Risk Of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome & Why?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome has many potential causes, similar to how various factors can lead to a sore stomach. Anyone can develop this condition, and the causes range from ankle injuries and swelling pressing on the nerve to the development of cysts or foot posture issues. Sports activities that put strain on the ankle can also lead to swelling, damage, or bone spurs. Medical conditions like arthritis, which cause inflammation in the ankle joints, can also contribute. In some cases, no specific cause is found.
Since the compression affects a nerve, symptoms include pain along with neural sensations like tingling, burning, pins and needles, and numbness in the heel and bottom of the foot. Symptoms may vary depending on foot and ankle positioning, as this affects the space in the tunnel. Reducing swelling can help lessen the severity of symptoms.
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Treating Tarsal Tunnel Pain
First Steps
To treat tarsal tunnel pain effectively, it’s important to address the underlying cause. While ice, compression, elevation, and anti-inflammatory medications can provide temporary relief for inflammation, they won’t help if a cyst or bone spur is present in the tunnel. Start by resting your foot and avoiding activities that trigger the pain.
See Your Podiatrist
Proper care for tarsal tunnel pain is crucial to prevent long-term nerve damage. At Priority Podiatry Clinic, we begin with a comprehensive biomechanical assessment to identify the cause of the nerve compression and determine the best treatment approach. This may involve custom foot orthotics to help open the tunnel and address any structural or functional issues, such as flat feet, contributing to the compression.
If swelling from an injury around the ankle is causing the pressure, we’ll manage this injury while relieving the nerve compression symptoms. Our goal is to help you feel better now and reduce the risk of the issue recurring in the future.
We’ll also ensure your footwear supports your recovery and doesn’t aggravate your symptoms. Once you’re ready, we may recommend stretching, strengthening, or gait retraining if muscle weakness, tightness, or gait issues have contributed to the problem.
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