If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, you may be wondering if you have tarsal tunnel syndrome. This is a painful foot and ankle condition that should not go untreated, though it’s important to start with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Dr. Benjamin Weaver at Central Kansas Podiatry explains common symptoms and treatments for tarsal tunnel syndrome and shares key signs indicating that you should go to a podiatrist for an individualized evaluation.
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What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a painful foot and ankle condition similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, which commonly affects people who use their wrists and hands frequently. However, tarsal tunnel syndrome involves the ankles and feet, while carpal tunnel syndrome involves the wrists and hands.
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space located on the inside of the ankle, near the ankle bone. It is covered by a thick ligament known as the flexor retinaculum, which protects and maintains the structures contained within the tunnel, including nerves, tendons, and blood vessels.
TTS is caused by the compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. When this nerve is compressed, it affects the surrounding blood vessels, nerves, and tendons, making it both difficult and painful for a person who has this condition to move their ankle and flex their foot.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
There are several indicators that you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms include shooting pain, numbness, tingling, and burning sensations on the inside or bottom of your foot. In some people, discomfort may be isolated to one specific spot, whereas in others, it could extend beyond the foot into the ankle and calf.
What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
TTS is common in individuals with chronically swollen feet due to conditions such as arthritis-related foot pain or diabetes nerve compression. These conditions cause nerve compression, which can affect the nerves and ligaments in your feet and ankles. However, others can also be affected by TTS. Individuals with the following conditions also tend to be susceptive to TTS:
- Flat feet
- Fallen arches
- Varicose veins
- Structural abnormalities, such as bone spurs
- Swollen or inflamed tendons in the tarsal tunnel
- Swelling or inflammation due to an injury or trauma, like a sprained ankle
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Options
There are a number of treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome. At Central Kansas Podiatry, treatment recommendations are based on the underlying cause and severity of your condition. Common treatment options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications. You may be prescribed anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation around the tibial nerve and help relieve pain associated with TTS.
- Orthotics. Foot orthotics, including braces, splints, or specialized footwear, may be recommended to relieve pressure on the nerve and improve foot mechanics.
- Rest. Limiting activities that aggravate your symptoms can give irritated nerves and surrounding tissues time to heal.
- Immobilization. In some cases, immobilization with a boot or cast may be necessary to reduce stress on the affected area and promote healing.
- Shockwave therapy. Shockwave therapy uses acoustic energy to stimulate healing, improve circulation, and help reduce pain and inflammation associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- Remy laser therapy. Remy laser therapy may be used to decrease inflammation, improve blood flow, and provide pain relief while supporting the body's natural healing process.
- DPMX therapy. DPMX therapy may be incorporated into your personalized treatment plan to help reduce discomfort and support recovery.
- Liposana treatment. Liposana may be recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to reducing nerve irritation and promoting healing of affected tissues.
- Surgery. Central Kansas Podiatry prioritizes conservative, non-surgical treatment whenever possible. However, if symptoms persist despite conservative care or severe nerve compression is present, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the tibial nerve.
When To See a Podiatrist
If you are having foot or ankle problems, it’s essential to be evaluated by a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You should see a podiatrist as soon as you notice symptoms that may indicate TTS or another foot or ankle issue. Signs that it’s time to discuss your foot and ankle pain with a foot doctor include:
- Difficulty walking or standing. If it becomes difficult for you to walk or stand, it’s important that you see treatment from a podiatrist as soon as possible.
- Pain that won’t go away. If your pain isn’t going away on its own or after trying home remedies, such as ice or over-the-counter pain medication, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist.
- Pain or discomfort with no clear cause. If there is no clear reason for the pain or discomfort you are experiencing, you should seek podiatric attention immediately.
- Numbness. If you experience numbness in either of your feet or ankles, it’s important to get the area checked out by a qualified podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you are in the Wichita area, request an appointment with Central Kansas Podiatry today. At your appointment, Dr. Weaver will physically examine the affected area, review your medical history, perform any necessary imaging tests to determine the extent of your condition, and determine the most effective treatment option. He’ll explain your options in detail and make sure you know what to expect as you begin the treatment process.
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