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Overview

●       Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a condition that occurs when you have a damaged or compressed tibial nerve. The tibial nerve is a nerve in your ankle. It runs through your tarsal tunnel, a passage in your ankle made up of bones and ligaments.

●       People who have TTS may have pain, tingling, numbness or weakness in their feet. You might develop TTS because of overuse of your foot and ankle. You’re more likely to develop TTS if you exercise strenuously or frequently, especially if you have a very flat foot.

Causes

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when something damages your tibial nerve. Causes of tibial nerve damage can include:

●      Flat feet

●      High arches.

●      Injuries, such as an ankle sprain or fracture .

●      Irregular growths, such as ganglion cysts, bone spurs or varicose veins.

●      Masses such as lipomas or tumors near your tibial nerve.

●      Body-wide (systemic) conditions, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or arthritis.

For many people who develop tarsal tunnel syndrome, TTS is part of an overuse injury. More than 2 in 5 people with tarsal tunnel syndrome have a history of injuries such as ankle sprains. A sprained ankle is an injury to your ankle ligaments

Symptoms

Tarsal tunnel syndrome causes signs of nerve pain. TTS usually causes pain in the inside of your ankle or the bottom of your feet. You may also experience:

●      Burning sensations.

●      Numbness.

●      Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations.

●      Weakness in your foot muscles.

Often, symptoms worsen during or after physical activity. If TTS is severe or long-lasting, you may experience symptoms all the time.

Diagnosis/Test

To diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome, your healthcare provider will ask you to describe your symptoms. They may examine your ankle or look for injuries, as well.

Your healthcare provider may also use:

●      Tinel’s test: Your healthcare provider gently taps your tibial nerve. If you experience pain or tingling that reproduces your symptoms, it may point to TTS.

●      Electromyogram (EMG): This two-part test uses an electrical impulse to measure your nerve and muscle function.

●      MRI: MRIs use magnets and radio waves to take detailed images of soft tissue and bones inside of your body. Your healthcare provider may order an MRI to evaluate an injury or nerve damage or a mass putting pressure on your tibial nerve.

Treatment

Many people can manage tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms with at-home or over-the-counter treatments. You might try:

●      Rest: Staying off of your foot for a few days or weeks can promote healing and prevent further injury.

●      Ice: Use ice packs for up to 20 minutes, a few times a day. Icing your foot can reduce swelling and pain.

●      Compression and elevation: You may wear a supportive elastic bandage or brace around your ankle. Elevating your foot above your heart whenever possible can reduce inflammation.

●      Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen may decrease pain and inflammation.

How can I prevent tarsal tunnel syndrome?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent tarsal tunnel syndrome. You can lower your risk of developing TTS if you:

●      Rest between workouts to avoid overuse injuries.

●      Stretch your feet and ankles regularly.

●      Warm up before exercise.

●      Wear proper-fitting, supportive footwear.

Are there long-term effects from tarsal tunnel syndrome?

●       Without treatment, TTS can lead to nerve damage. If you develop nerve damage, it can be permanent and irreversible. You may have difficulty walking, exercising or performing your daily activities.

●       Thankfully, treatment can help you manage TTS symptoms. For the best results, it’s important to get treatment as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. Depending on the cause of TTS, treatment may even cure the condition.

Our expert providers are experienced and skilled at treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and are your source for expert treatment of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome in Westminster and Denver Colorado. Not only are we the premier treatment for spine injuries and chiropractic in Westminster and Denver Colorado, but we also specialize in many other advanced treatment techniques such as shockwave, cold laser, graston technique, KT Taping, activator, instrument aided spinal alignments, drop table, toggle, in house rehab services, and on site digital xrays. We are your Premier destination for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Westminster Colorado and Denver Colorado Chiropractor.