Footnotes / Blog
What is the Tarsal Tunnel?
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the inside of the ankle. It is covered by a thick ligament that protects various important structures, including the arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves. One of the critical nerves in this tunnel is the posterior tibial nerve, which is affected in Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed or squeezed within the tarsal tunnel. This compression can cause symptoms along the nerve’s pathway from the inner ankle into the foot. TTS is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects the wrist; both conditions result from nerve compression in a confined space.
Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Several factors can lead to compression of the posterior tibial nerve, including:
- Flat Feet (Pes Planus): The outward tilting of the heel due to fallen arches can strain and compress the nerve.
- Space-Occupying Lesions: These can include varicose veins, ganglion cysts, swollen tendons, or arthritic bone spurs.
- Injury: An ankle sprain or other injury can cause swelling and inflammation that leads to nerve compression.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes and arthritis can cause swelling, which further compresses the nerve.
Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Patients with TTS may experience:
- Tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electrical shock.
- Numbness in the foot or ankle.
- Pain, sometimes described as shooting or radiating pain.
The symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, and they may come and go. The discomfort can range from mild to severe and may affect the foot and ankle.
Diagnosis of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
To diagnose TTS, one of the experienced podiatrists at Innovative Foot & Ankle will perform a thorough examination, including:
- Physical Exam: The doctor will check for any loss of sensation or tenderness along the nerve pathway.
- Tapping Test: The foot will be positioned, and the doctor will tap on the nerve to see if the symptoms are triggered.
- Pressing on the area to detect any potential masses or swelling.
If needed, the doctor may recommend electromyography and nerve conduction velocity tests (EMG/NCV) to evaluate nerve function and confirm the diagnosis.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Many cases of TTS can be managed without surgery through a combination of treatments:
- Rest and Ice to reduce inflammation.
- Oral Medications to manage pain and swelling.
- Immobilization to prevent further irritation.
- Physical Therapy to strengthen the foot and ankle.
- Injection Therapy (e.g., corticosteroid injections) for reducing inflammation.
- Orthotics to support the foot and relieve pressure on the nerve.
When is Surgery Needed?
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary. A foot and ankle surgeon will assess the situation and determine the best course of action, which may involve releasing the nerve from compression or addressing the underlying cause of the condition.
Visit Innovative Foot & Ankle for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
The podiatrists at Innovative Foot & Ankle are highly trained in both non-surgical and surgical treatments for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. If you’re experiencing symptoms of TTS, don’t wait to get the care you need. We have four office locations in Northern New Jersey: Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry, and Montclair.