Robert Moghim MD
Anchor Healthcare
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
1746874620
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) occurs when the tibial nerve, also known as the posterior tibial nerve, becomes compressed or pinched within the ankle. Think of it like a narrow tunnel through which the nerve passes, and sometimes bones or other tissues press on it. This can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in your foot.
This condition can affect anyone but is more common in women and athletes. Foot abnormalities, such as flat feet or high arches, can increase the risk of nerve compression. Ankle injuries, as well as medical conditions like arthritis and diabetes, may also contribute to Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS). Additionally, previous foot or ankle surgery can lead to scarring and swelling, which may further compress the nerve.To help relieve symptoms, doctors often start with conservative treatments. This might include resting your foot, using special shoe inserts to support your arches, or doing physical therapy exercises to make your foot stronger. Medicines that reduce swelling, like N SEDS, may also help. If these treatments don’t work, doctors might suggest injections to reduce pain or even surgery to stop the nerve from being pinched. If other treatments are unsuccessful, nerve ablation—which uses heat or cold to disrupt pain signals—and peripheral nerve stimulation—an implantable device that delivers mild electrical pulses to targeted nerves—may be long-term options for pain management.
It’s important to get treated because if TTS goes on for too long without care, it might lead to permanent nerve damage. Early diagnosis and proper management are essential to help avoid long-term problems.
FAQs
How is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome treated?
Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome typically begins with conservative methods such as rest, special shoe inserts or orthotics, and physical therapy exercises to strengthen the foot. Medications like NSAIDs may be used to reduce swelling. In cases where these treatments are ineffective, doctors may suggest injections, surgery, or advanced options like nerve ablation or peripheral nerve stimulation.
What are common causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Common causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome include foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches, ankle injuries, and medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes. Previous foot or ankle surgery and space-occupying lesions, such as cysts or tumors, can also contribute to nerve compression.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS)?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a condition where the tibial nerve, located in the ankle, becomes compressed or pinched. This compression occurs in the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the ankle, and can lead to symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness in the foot.
Who is at risk for developing Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
While Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can affect anyone, it is more prevalent in women and athletes. Risk factors include repetitive stress activities, such as those involving prolonged standing or running, certain foot structures like flat feet, and systemic diseases like diabetes or arthritis.
Why is early treatment of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome important?
Early treatment of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage. If left untreated, TTS can lead to chronic pain, muscle weakness, and loss of sensation in the foot. Proper management aims to alleviate pressure on the tibial nerve and mitigate the risk of long-term complications.