Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain along the inside of your ankle or bottom of your foot may be related to nerve compression.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve or its branches become compressed or irritated as they travel through a narrow space near the inside of the ankle.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we evaluate nerve-related foot and ankle symptoms to help identify their source.
Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms vary from person to person and may occur in the ankle, heel, arch, or sole of the foot.
They may include:
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Burning sensations
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Tingling
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Numbness
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Shooting or electric-like pain
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Pain around the inside of the ankle
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Symptoms extending into the bottom of the foot
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Discomfort that worsens with prolonged standing or activity
What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Anything that reduces space or increases pressure around the nerve may potentially contribute.
Possible factors include swelling, injury, certain foot structures, masses or cysts, varicose veins, or other conditions affecting the area.
Nerve symptoms can also originate elsewhere, so burning or numbness in the feet does not automatically mean tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Getting the Right Diagnosis
Your provider will evaluate where symptoms occur, what triggers them, and whether weakness or sensory changes are present.
Your foot structure, medical history, and previous injuries may also be considered. Imaging, nerve testing, or additional evaluation may be recommended depending on your symptoms.
Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment is based on the suspected cause of the nerve compression and severity of symptoms.
Conservative options may include activity modification, immobilization, orthotics, medications, physical therapy, injections, or other approaches.
When significant nerve compression persists despite conservative treatment, surgery may be considered for appropriate patients.
When Should You Seek Care?
Persistent numbness, burning, tingling, or shooting pain deserves evaluation, particularly when symptoms are worsening or accompanied by weakness.
Find the Source of Your Foot Nerve Pain
Nerve-related symptoms can be frustrating, especially when you're unsure why they're happening.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we'll evaluate your symptoms and help determine the appropriate next steps.
Schedule an appointment today for persistent burning, tingling, or numbness in your foot or ankle.
