Burning, tingling, and pain in the ankle and foot can be caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome, which affects about 200,000 Americans per year. For relief from tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms, visit the podiatrists at Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC. With locations in Mesquite, Rockwall, Wylie, Forney, and Kaufman, Texas, you can get treatment at the office most convenient for you. To schedule an appointment, call or book online today.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which your tibial nerve is compressed inside the tarsal tunnel located in your inner ankle.
Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel syndrome involves pinching or squeezing of your tibial nerve which supplies sensation to your inner ankle and foot. When your tibial nerve is compressed, it causes:
Depending on where in your ankle your tibial nerve is compressed, you can experience symptoms in a single area or along the length of the nerve. Based on your symptoms, the team determines where the nerve is compressed and what solutions are best for your particular case.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by any condition that puts pressure on your tarsal tunnel and tibial nerve. Possible causes are:
If the condition isn’t treated, it can become progressive and cause permanent damage to your tibial nerve, which may lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
To diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome, your podiatrist begins by examining your ankle and applying pressure to different areas to try to trigger symptoms.
If necessary, your podiatrist may take X-rays or perform nerve testing like electromyography (EMG) or a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test.
Based on the results of your exam, your podiatrist explains the cause of your symptoms and outlines treatment options.
Many cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome can improve with nonsurgical treatments like:
For some cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome, surgery is recommended. Discuss your options with the team to determine which treatment plan is best for your symptoms and lifestyle.
Find out if your ankle or foot pain is caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome by calling the office or scheduling a visit online now.
