Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Specialist

What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in your wrist. But with tarsal tunnel syndrome, it’s your posterior tibial nerve, that runs through the small tunnel in your ankle, rather than your median nerve, that becomes compressed. You can develop tarsal tunnel syndrome due to:

• Having flat feet
• Developing arthritic conditions
• Having chronic health issues, like diabetes
• Suffering from an injury, like an ankle sprain

Your risk of struggling with tarsal tunnel syndrome is also high if you have abnormal growths or structures in or around your ankle, including ganglion cysts or bone spurs. 

When should I see a podiatrist for tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to pain and discomfort on the inside of your ankle, down your calf, or along the bottom of your foot. The podiatry team at The Foot Specialty Practice encourage you to come in for a tarsal tunnel evaluation at the first sign of symptoms, which may also include:

• Tingling
• Burning  
• Shooting pains 
• Electrical sensations

It’s important to come into the clinic right away if you’re experiencing tarsal tunnel-related symptoms that are so severe, they’re starting to affect your work, hobbies, or exercise routine. 

How is tarsal tunnel syndrome treated?

Resolving tarsal tunnel syndrome begins with staying off your affected foot and icing it regularly to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. After going through a comprehensive evaluation at The Foot Specialty Practice and determining the severity of your case of tarsal tunnel syndrome, you can get started on treatment, which may involve:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Immobilization with a cast or brace
• Corticosteroid injections
• Custom orthotics
• Physical therapy 

If conservative therapies aren’t providing relief, your podiatrist at The Foot Specialty Practice could recommend surgery. Tarsal tunnel syndrome surgery can include cutting into surrounding structures to make more room for your inflamed nerve, removing any abnormal growths (like cysts), or making any other essential repairs to help you get the relief you need.

If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, schedule a tarsal tunnel syndrome evaluation at The Foot Specialty Practice today. Request an appointment online or call the office directly.