Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

What Is the Tarsal Tunnel?

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that is located on the inside of the ankle. The tunnel is covered by a ligament (the flexor retinaculum) that maintains and protects the structures contained within the tunnel—tendons, nerves, arteries and veins. One of the mentioned structures is the posterior tibial nerve, which is the nerve affected in cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a compression or entrapment of the posterior tibial nerve that produces sometimes painful symptoms at any point along the path of the nerve. This usually runs from the inside (medial) of the ankle into the foot.

Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be caused by multiple factors. Anything that produces compression on the posterior tibial nerve can contribute. Some examples include flat feet (pes planus), previous ankle sprain, systemic diseases such as arthritis and abnormal structures in the tarsal tunnel e.g ganglion cysts.

Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain, often random and shooting in nature
• Tingling or numbness
• Burning or a sensation similar to an electrical shock

Symptoms can occur suddenly and are typically felt on the inside of the ankle or on the bottom of the foot. In some cases, symptoms may occur in just one spot. In other cases, they may extend to the heel, arch, toes and even the calf.

Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome can be often confused with other conditions so proper assessment from a health professional is essential so that a correct diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment be initiated.

How can we help?

Our Melbourne Podiatrists can assess the foot and ankle to arrive at a diagnosis and determine your needs. During this examination the podiatrist will assess any structural concerns and palpate areas of the foot and ankle to assist in diagnosis. We can then assess your foot posture, footwear and gait biomechanics using our video analysis software. This can give us vital information in diagnosing a cause for your symptoms.

How to treat Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome conservatively

There are many treatment options available to manage tarsal tunnel syndrome. These include:

• Rest. Staying off the foot prevents further injury and encourages healing.
• Ice packs
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can assist in reducing the pain and inflammation.
• Ultrasound therapy – this is available at Melbourne Podiatrists and Orthotics
• Exercises – stretching and strengthening prescribed by your podiatrist
• Custom orthotics – Custom orthotics can be prescribed to help maintain the arch and limit excessive motion that can cause compression of the nerve.
• Shoes

If the above information sounds like you, come in and see us at Melbourne Podiatrists and Orthotics. We can help you get back to your best.

Do you suffer from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in diagnosis and treatment of painful foot conditions including tarsal tunnel syndrome.

So if you suffer from undiagnosed numbness or burning pain in your feet book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!