Fact Checked
Tarsal tunnel syndrome causes squeezing or compression on the tibial nerves that result to pain and other symptoms on the nerve path to the inside of the ankle and into the foot. This condition is the same as carpal tunnel syndrome which affects the wrist and both are due to crushing of a nerve in a narrowed space.
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that is located inside the ankle next to the bones. The tunnel is covered with ligament which protects and maintains the structures within that includes tendons, arteries, veins and nerves. One of the structures is the posterior tibial nerve that causes tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome
- An enlarged or abnormal structure within the tunnel that compresses the nerve. These structures include a ganglion cyst, varicose vein, inflamed tendon or bone spur.
- An individual with flat feet is at higher risk to develop the condition due to outward slanting of the heel.
- An ankle sprain can cause inflammation and swelling near the tunnel
- Conditions such as arthritis and diabetes.
Symptoms
- Numbness
- Tingling, burning sensation the strikingly resembles an electric shock
- Shooting pain due to prolonged standing, exercising, walking and starting a new exercise program
Treatment
- Take plenty of rest. Avoid performing activities that causes pain to prevent further damage and for fast healing of the condition.
- Apply an ice pack on the affected area for 20 minutes and take a rest for 40 minutes before reapplying again. Avoid applying the pack directly on the skin to prevent further damage that can worsen the condition.
- Take the prescribed oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to lessen the pain and inflammation.
- Wear a cast on the affected ankle to prevent unnecessary movement and for fast healing of the condition.
- Seek the help of a physical therapist for some rehabilitation exercises that aims on restoring the range of motion and lessen the symptoms.
- Wear the prescribed shoe inserts to maintain the arch and lessen movement that result to the compression of the nerve.
- A flat-footed person should wear braces to lessen the pressure placed on the foot.
Tips
- Wear footwear that gives adequate support
- Avoid sudden increase in high-impact activities such as running
- Rest the leg between long hours of standing or walking.
- Performing proper warm up before starting strenuous workouts to prevent injuries around the nerve and lessen compression of the affected area.
- Use wraps or braces while performing athletic activities especially on uneven surfaces or if there are sudden changes in direction to lessen the risk of ankle injury.
FACT CHECK
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarsal_tunnel_syndrome
https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/tarsal-tunnel-syndrome