Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

By Matt Paulus, MS, ATC, LAT

What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is when an individual may feel pain or numbness/tingling in their foot. Either compression or irritation causes this condition to the posterior tibial nerve, a nerve that branches off the sciatic nerve and is located near the ankle. The tarsal tunnel is a small pathway made up of bone and other soft tissues that the posterior tibial nerve travels through (along with blood vessels). If this pathway’s space decreases or causes irritation to the nerve, it can lead to this condition. Pain in the foot will tend to worsen with standing, walking, and running due to increased pressure to the tibial nerve.

Image of a man with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Individuals with tarsal tunnel syndrome may feel pain along the path of the tibial nerve (inside the ankle) and experience pain around their heel or the bottom of their foot. This condition can create problems with day-to-day activities, including walking and standing. It can also limit athletes and prevent them from participating in their specific events or game. Symptoms can vary but may include:

Burning.
Sharp pains.
Numbness/tingling.
Pins and needles.

Potential Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Chronic issues can cause this condition over time or from traumatic injury. Some of these causes may include:

Osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis.
Postural deviations.
Cyst formation.
Ankle sprain or other trauma to the ankle.
Diabetes.
Foot deformities.
Poorly fitting shoes.
Obesity.
Jobs that require an individual to stand for long periods of time.

How can Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome be Diagnosed?

Your doctor will obtain a subjective history and perform a physical exam, looking at strength, range of motion, and foot positioning. Other diagnostic tests that can confirm tarsal tunnel syndrome may include:

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging).
X-Ray.
Nerve conduction.
Electromyography

Treatment options for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

If you suspect that you may be dealing with tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor can help you identify the cause and provide treatment options. Some treatment options may include:

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatories).
Ice.
Physical Therapy.
Steroid injections.
Surgery.
Braces / Splints.

Physical Therapy as a Treatment Option

Physical therapy may include stretching and strengthening exercises and activities to address the underlying cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome and pain control with modalities (ultrasound, E-Stim, ice, and massage). Balance exercises to improve foot strength is also something that your physical therapist might incorporate into treatment. Many people respond positively to physical therapy and other conservative treatments. Physical therapy or other conservative routes are recommended before having surgery. To schedule for physical therapy at a JOI Rehab Center, please call 904-858-7045.

If you suspect that you may be dealing with this condition, it is important to see a healthcare provider. More severe cases of cases left untreated can cause permanent damage. This condition is often treated by our Doctors and Physical Therapists here at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute. Come in and see one of our Doctors for an evaluation today!

JOI and JOI Rehab

JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.

You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.

To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

Author: Matt Paulus, MS, ATC, LAT

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