Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Anatomy similar to that of the wrist and hand exists in the ankle and foot. Tarsal is a word from Latin which means ankle. When the sensory nerve that passes through the tarsal tunnel is irritated by pressure in the tunnel, numbness and tingling of the foot and toes can be felt. This condition is referred to as "tarsal tunnel syndrome."
How Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Evaluated?
Your doctor will conduct a physical exam and may order:
- Nerve conduction velocity test (NCV)
- Electromyagram (EMG)
How Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
Self Care
Follow the PRINCE treatment model:
- Protect your ankle with supportive shoes.
- Rest your ankle.
- Ice your ankle several times a day for 10 to 20 minutes..
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) help with pain relief and swelling reduction.
- Compression with an elastic compression wrap also helps reduce swelling—but it does not offer support when walking.
- Elevation. Raise your ankle above the level of your heart to reduce swelling and bruising.
Nonsurgical Treatment
- Brace or cast
- Corticosteroid injections
- Orthoses
- Physical therapy
- Ultrasound therapy
- Soft tissue massage
Surgery
Surgery is only necessary when all other treatments have failed. Using arthroscopic surgery, a minimally-invasive procedure, the surgeon cuts the ligament to release the compressed nerve. This usually can be done on an outpatient basis.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).