Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Anatomy

On the inner aspect of the ankle joint, there is a tunnel where nerves, blood vessels and tendons pass through. The primary nerve passing through this area is the Posterior Tibial Nerve. This Sciatic nerve branch is held in the tarsal tunnel of the ankle by a piece of connective tissue called the Flexor Retinaculum.

The Posterior Tibial nerve innervates the intrinsic muscles of the feet along the side and bottom. If the nerve becomes irritated through compression, it can become painful, leading to Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome include burning, tingling and pins and needles in the foot. Symptoms are aggravated by walking on uneven surfaces, running, hopping or jumping.

Some patients report shooting-type pain; in severe cases, there may be muscle weakness when there is compression of the Posterior Tibial nerve. For people with conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, the swelling associated with these conditions can aggravate the symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

Like a lot of nerve pain, symptoms are often worse at night.

The onset of symptoms can be gradual or sudden, depending on the cause; if left untreated, symptoms often deteriorate.

Treatment

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy is the most effective form of treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. In the acute stages, treatment may involve taping, icing, a brace and anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, all of which act as a method to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.

Weakness and inadequacies in mobility and stability of the ankle are addressed with appropriate exercises that should be progressive without further irritating symptoms.

Recommendations on footwear and insoles should be provided to optimise the stability of the foot and reduce the risk of compression through the gait cycle and when standing.

Injections and Surgery

In stubborn cases, an injection may be required to reduce inflammation levels in the tarsal tunnel. Following an injection, 1-2 weeks in a boot can allow it to take maximum effect, followed by 4-6 weeks of Physical Therapy.

If symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative treatment, surgery may be required. Tarsal Tunnel Release surgery involves the splitting of a ligament in the ankle. It creates an opening in the back of the ankle, extending down to the foot’s arch to alleviate pressure from the tarsal tunnel.

How long does Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome last?

In our experience, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome lasts 2-6 weeks if a change in movement patterns causes it. However, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is often the result of a bone spur, ganglion cyst or systemic condition.

If it is not possible to resolve or manage, these symptoms can last 6-9 months or longer as surgery is often required.

What can be mistaken for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

The location of the pain in tarsal tunnel syndrome is on the inside of the ankle. Other conditions that could be mistaken for this condition are Posterior Tibial Tendonitis, Chronic Deltoid Ligament Sprain, Posterior Tibial Tendon tears and Medial Malleolus stress fractures.

Physiotherapy with James McCormack

This article is written by James McCormack, a Lower Limb Specialist who is an expert in treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

This is not medical advice. We recommend a consultation with a medical professional such as James McCormack if you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this article. James offers Online Physiotherapy Appointments weekly and face-to-face appointments in his London clinic.