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 NSAIDS, 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.