Do you experience tingling, burning, or shooting pains on the inside of your ankle or the bottom of your foot? You may have a condition called tarsal tunnel syndrome. This condition is caused by the compression, or squeezing, of the posterior tibial nerve that runs from the inside of the ankle into the foot.
There are several causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome, including flat feet, enlarged or abnormal structures in the tarsal tunnel, injuries, and systemic diseases such as diabetes or arthritis. Patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome may experience one or more of the following symptoms: tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electrical shock, numbness, pain, or shooting pain. Symptoms are typically felt on the inside of the ankle and/or on the bottom of the foot.
It is important to seek early treatment if you experience any of these symptoms. If left untreated, the condition can progress and result in permanent nerve damage. Proper evaluation is also essential to ensure a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A foot and ankle surgeon will examine the affected foot and may use advanced imaging studies or nerve conduction velocity (NCV) tests to evaluate nerve problems if non-surgical treatment does not improve the symptoms.
Non-surgical treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome may include rest, ice, oral medications, immobilization (“casting” or bracing), physical therapy, injection therapy, custom orthotic devices, supportive shoes, and bracing. The treatment plan will depend on the cause and severity of the condition. Surgery may also be an option in some cases.
If you are experiencing symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, seeking early evaluation and treatment is critical. Dr. Gilbert Huang DPM can provide expert care to help you manage and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. Don’t let the condition progress and cause permanent damage—make an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist today.