Experiencing pain in the foot or ankle is often frustrating and debilitating. After all, these are two of the most used parts of the body for daily activities. It’s almost impossible to get through a day without putting weight on your feet or moving your ankles, so any discomfort in these areas can significantly impact your quality of life. Many different conditions can cause foot or ankle pain; one such condition is tarsal tunnel syndrome.
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space in the ankle through which the posterior tibial nerve passes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when this nerve becomes compressed or pinched within the tunnel, leading to discomfort and pain in the foot and ankle. This condition can affect mobility and significantly impact daily activities. Essentially, tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression disorder. It requires proper diagnosis and management to alleviate pain and restore normal function.
Symptoms Of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause various symptoms, including:
- Pain: The most common symptom is pain in the foot and ankle, ranging from mild to severe.
- Burning or tingling sensations: Some may experience a burning or tingling sensation, similar to pins and needles, due to nerve compression affecting sensation.
- Numbness: As the condition progresses, numbness in the foot and toes may occur because the nerve cannot properly send signals to the brain.
- Abnormal sensations: In addition to tingling, some may experience tightness or cramping in the foot or pain similar to an electric shock.
- Radiating pain: The pain can radiate to other areas, such as the arch or heel, and may also travel up the leg. This pain often worsens with activity and may improve with rest.
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Why Does Nerve Compression Occur In The Ankle?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:
- Flat feet or fallen arches: Individuals with flat feet or fallen arches are more prone to developing tarsal tunnel syndrome because this foot structure places extra strain on the posterior tibial nerve.
- Repeated pressure: Activities or occupations involving prolonged standing, walking, or running can put pressure on the posterior tibial nerve, leading to tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- Entrapment or compression: Conditions or injuries that put pressure on the posterior tibial nerve, such as cysts or varicose veins, can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- Injuries and trauma: Direct injuries to the ankle or foot, like fractures or sprains, can cause inflammation and compression of the posterior tibial nerve.
- Damage to the tibial nerve: Conditions like diabetes or arthritis can damage the tibial nerve, making it more prone to compression, which can lead to tarsal tunnel syndrome.
How To Diagnose Ankle Nerve Disorders
If you’re experiencing symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, your doctor may do the following to diagnose the condition:
- Physical examination and history: Your doctor will examine your foot and ankle for signs of swelling, tenderness, or abnormalities. They will also ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any activities or injuries that may have contributed to the condition.
- Nerve conduction tests: These tests measure the speed and strength of nerve signals to determine if there is compression or damage to the posterior tibial nerve.
Conventional Treatment Options
Conventional treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome may include:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) therapy: Your doctor may recommend RICE therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Rest helps give the nerve time to heal, while ice reduces inflammation, and compression helps reduce swelling. Elevating your foot above heart level can also help improve blood flow, which will help reduce swelling.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body.
- Orthotics or shoes with added arch support: If your flat feet or fallen arches are causing tarsal tunnel syndrome, wearing orthotic inserts or supportive shoes can help improve the alignment of your feet and reduce pressure on the posterior tibial nerve.
- Corticosteroid injections: In severe cases, your doctor may recommend injecting a corticosteroid medication into the tarsal tunnel to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the nerve.
- Surgery (in extreme cases): If conservative treatment options fail to provide relief, your doctor may recommend surgery to release the compressed nerve and relieve pressure in the tarsal tunnel.
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