Tarsal Tunnel

What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
The Tarsal tunnel is a kind of narrow space that lies on the inside of the ankle next to ankle bones. The tunnel is protected with a thick ligament that maintains the actual structure contained within tunnel such as arteries, veins, and nerves.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is a compression, on posterior tibial nerve that produces symptoms anywhere along the path of the nerve. The posterior tibial nerve moves along the inside of the ankle in the foot. It tends to occur in the wrist. And usually arise from the compression of a nerve.

What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome? Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by anything that produces compression on posterior tibial nerve. Tarsal tunnel syndrome may occur after an injury to the foot or ankle. Common injuries and conditions that cause tarsal tunnel are: Systemic diseases such as diabetes or arthritis can cause swelling, thus compressing the nerve.

Person who is overweight may be prone to experiencing pressure on posterior tibial nerve.

Ankle sprain, may produces inflammation and swelling in the tunnel, resulting in the compression of the nerve.

Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel?
Patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome experience some of the following symptoms:

• Tingling, burning, or a sensation
• Numbness
• Pain, including shooting pain

The symptoms are usually felt on the inside of the ankle and on the bottom of the foot. In some people, symptom may be separated and may occur in just one spot. In others, it may extend to the heel, arch, toes, and even the calf.

Sometime the symptoms of the syndrome may appear without any proven reason. Often they are brought on by excess use of the foot such as prolonged standing, walking, exercising, or beginning a new exercise program.

It is very important to check with early treatment if any of the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome occur.

Treatment Options for Tarsal Tunnel?
There are several or a combination of treatments is available to treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. Some of then includes:
Physical therapy – Ultrasound therapy and exercise are the form of physical therapy may be helpful to reduce tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Surgery – Surgery is also the better option for treating tarsal tunnel syndrome. The surgeon will determine if surgery is necessary.

Orthotic devices – Custom design shoe inserts may be prescribed to help
maintain the arch and limit excessive motion that can cause compression on the nerve