Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle.
Symptoms
- Burning or tingling in the sole
- Shooting pain
- Numbness
- Worsened by prolonged standing
Causes & Risk Factors
- Flat feet
- Ankle swelling or injury
- Diabetes
- Repetitive motion
Diagnosis
- Tinel’s sign at the tarsal tunnel
- EMG/Nerve conduction studies
- MRI to identify mass lesions
Effective Treatment Options
- Activity modification
- Orthotics to support arch
- Manual nerve gliding
- Surgery if conservative fails
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tarsal tunnel the same as carpal tunnel?
Similar mechanism, but occurs in the ankle not the wrist.
How long does recovery take?
Several weeks to months depending on severity.
