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Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the foot and ankle. Similar to carpal tunnel, this foot disorder occurs when there are issues within the tarsal pathway surrounding the posterior tibial nerve, which runs from the ankle into the foot. While a podiatrist must evaluate the symptoms affecting health and comfort for an accurate diagnosis, this guide explains a few important basics. 

What Are the Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Compression of the posterior tibial nerve can result in numbness and tingling, which is often described as a “pins and needles” feeling. If the nerve is irritated, a person might also experience shooting pains. While the discomfort is mostly felt on the inside of the ankle or bottom of the foot, it can also extend up into the leg. 

Physical activity, such as walking or standing for long periods, can inflame symptoms. Over time, symptoms may also occur when you're at rest, such as when lying in bed at night. 

Why Does It Occur?

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Tarsal tunnel syndrome usually results from medical conditions affecting the feet and ankles. An ankle sprain may cause swelling around the posterior tibial nerve, which can trigger pain and numbness. People with flattened arches are also at risk of experiencing symptoms, as flat feet cause the nerve to extend unnaturally. 

Growths around the nerve also cause issues. This includes swollen tendons, varicose veins, or lipomas, which are benign growths composed of fatty tissue. A foot specialist is required to make an accurate diagnosis, as symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome mimic many other foot disorders. 

How Can It Be Prevented & Treated?

If you experience the effects of flat feet, talk with a podiatrist about having custom orthotics made to support foot health. You should always follow up with medical after a foot or ankle injury, especially if symptoms persist for a week or longer. 

Timely treatment is required to prevent worsening symptoms or even nerve damage, so be sure to have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome assessed right away. Mild symptoms are treated with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Steroid injections are administered by podiatrists to reduce swelling within the nerve pathway. Braces and splints are useful for stabilizing the foot, which prevents nerve compression and irritation. 

For severe, lasting cases, surgery is recommended. Surgical procedures focus on the ligament surrounding the tarsal tunnel, which can be incised to release tension. Minimally invasive procedures entail very small incisions, which makes for a faster recovery.

 

Never delay when experiencing foot pain and discomfort. If you have questions about foot health, Dr. Eric D. Trattner is backed by more than 30 years of professional experience. His clinic uses state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and treat numerous foot conditions. They also offer many solutions, from custom orthotics to minimally invasive surgery. Call (440) 333-5350 to schedule a free consultation with this Cleveland, OH-based foot specialist or visit the website for more information on their services. 

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