Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow section within the ankle, surrounded by bone and soft tissue. The posterior tibial nerve passes through the tunnel, and under normal circumstances, it can glide within it smoothly, without any inhibitions.

However, certain situations can cause the posterior tibial nerve to become entrapped or compressed within the tarsal tunnel, causing irritation and inflammation.

What Does Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Feel Like?

The symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome may differ in certain ways from patient to patient. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Pain in the feet, ankles, or lower leg that can range from mild to severe
• Tingling sensations
• Electric sensations, as if being shocked
• Burning sensations
• A feeling of numbness or a loss of sensation in the foot, ankle, or toes

Please note that not all of the above symptoms must be present in every case of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

In most cases, symptoms are more likely to manifest or worsen during or after physical activity. In more severe cases, however, symptoms may still be significant while sitting or lying down.

Whatever symptoms you may be experiencing, never delay in scheduling an appointment with us if you suspect nerve-related pain or discomfort.

What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

There are several different reasons why tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur. Among the more common are repetitive stresses or injuries (often caused by physical activities or work) that place excess pressure on the posterior tibial nerve, which can cause it or surrounding tissue to swell and entrap the nerve.

Other potential factors that may contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome include:

• Being overweight
• Having past foot or ankle injuries, such as sprains or fractures
• Having flat feet, high arches, or other abnormalities in foot structure
• Having scar tissue, cysts, tumors, or other masses that can press on the nerve
• Neuropathy caused by diabetes or other disorders