What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome has been defined as an extrinsic or intrinsic compression neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve or one of its branches. There are some very tight structures in this area, so there is very little room for expansion if any of these structures become inflamed or enlarged. This inflammation or enlargement of the nerve in this area causes the entrapment.
The posterior tibial nerve becomes impinged as it passes under the deep fascia of the leg and the abductor hallucis muscle. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to the carpal tunnel syndrome seen in the wrist but is far less common.
What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
There are an array of causes that have been associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome, resulting in the constriction of the posterior tibial nerve or one of its branches within the tarsal canal. Space-occupying lesions as a causative factor of tarsal tunnel syndrome are well documented. These lesions may be the result of post-traumatic, neoplastic or inflammatory factors. Post-traumatic factors include bone fractures resulting in tibial nerve compression.
Half of the patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome have a history of a previous sprain, ankle fracture, crash injury, flat foot or fracture-dislocation about the foot or ankle.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
An array of symptoms described as insidious in onset have been documented; these include longitudinal arch pain, plantar anaesthesia or paraesthesia or a sharp electric shock type of pain. The pain may radiate from the ball of the foot to the posterior aspect of the leg or may be localised to the heel area. The pain may be present at rest, but often, the patient describes a pain that is exacerbated with activity or post-prolonged ambulation.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment at Galleria Podiatry
The podiatric practitioner may implement conservative measures in the initial treatment stages of a suspect tarsal tunnel syndrome case and later seek a referral for surgical intervention if symptoms persist.
Non-surgical treatment includes orthotic therapy, physical therapy modalities, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, and corticosteroid injections.
Additional Therapy
Ice therapy and wearing wider shoes to allow the metatarsals to spread. Intrinsic forefoot exercises may also be helpful.
Pain of this type may also benefit from the use of pain-relieving gels or LIFESOLES, which can be found in our shop.
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Ready to fix your Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Pain?
For Tarsal Tunnel Syndrom pain, consult Galleria Podiatry for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. If you’re located in Morley and near Bayswater, Galleria Podiatry provides specialised care for foot and ankle issues for all patients in the City of Bayswater.
Your tarsal tunnel syndrome Questions Answered
What is tarsal tunnel syndrome and how does it compare to carpal tunnel syndrome?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is defined as an extrinsic or intrinsic compression neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve or one of its branches. The posterior tibial nerve becomes impinged as it passes under the deep fascia of the leg and the abductor hallucis muscle. It is similar to the carpal tunnel syndrome seen in the wrist but is far less common. The condition is rare and often not diagnosed correctly.
What are the main symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome?
Symptoms are described as insidious in onset and include longitudinal arch pain, plantar anaesthesia or paraesthesia, or a sharp electric shock type of pain. The pain may radiate from the ball of the foot to the posterior aspect of the leg or may be localised to the heel area. Tingling or burning pain, hyperaesthesia, and sensory impairment are usually experienced on the plantar surface of the ankle and foot. The pain may be present at rest, but often patients describe pain that is exacerbated with activity or after prolonged walking.
What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome to develop?
here are numerous causes associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome. Space-occupying lesions may result from post-traumatic, neoplastic or inflammatory factors. Post-traumatic factors include bone fractures resulting in tibial nerve compression. Half of the patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome have a history of a previous sprain, ankle fracture, crash injury, flat foot or fracture-dislocation about the foot or ankle. The tight structures in the tarsal canal area mean there is very little room for expansion if any of these structures become inflamed or enlarged.
What conservative treatments are available for tarsal tunnel syndrome?
The podiatric practitioner may implement conservative measures in the initial treatment stages. Non-surgical treatment includes orthotic therapy, physical therapy modalities, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Additional therapy includes ice therapy and wearing wider shoes to allow the metatarsals to spread. Intrinsic forefoot exercises may also be helpful. Pain-relieving gels or LIFESOLES orthotics are also available and can provide relief.
When is surgical intervention considered for tarsal tunnel syndrome?
If conservative treatment measures fail to provide relief and symptoms persist, the podiatric practitioner may seek a referral for surgical intervention. Surgery is typically considered after initial conservative treatments have been attempted without success. At Galleria Podiatry, your podiatrist will implement conservative measures first and monitor your progress before considering surgical options.
