Tarsal Tunnel

Tarsal Tunnel is a common overuse injury that results in damage to the tibial nerve. The tibial nerve is a nerve that goes through the tarsal tunnel and through the bones and ligaments of the ankle. People with tarsal tunnel syndrome will most likely experience weakness in the foot, diffused pain, burning, and numbness on the bottom of the foot that can radiate to the heel or toes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is more common in people with prior ankle injuries. But not limited to those who exercise a lot or have very flat feet. Tarsal Tunnel is caused by many things like; ganglion cysts, bone spurs, any type of irregular growths in the foot, lipomas/tumors by the tibial nerve, diabetes, arthritis, pregnancy, and/or hypothyroidism. This condition can be diagnosed through a Tinel’s sign test along with numerous other clinical tests. The Tinel’s sign is where clinicians will gently tap over the tibial nerve in the foot to see if any of the signs and symptoms is produced. Tarsal Tunnel can be treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, splints, braces, boots, steroid injections, or physical therapy. If tarsal tunnel syndrome continues and is left untreated it can lead to permanent damage to the tibial nerve and surgery will become an option. Preventing tarsal tunnel syndrome involves wearing proper fitting and supportive shoes, warm up before exercise, cool down after exercise, resting frequently during exercise, and stretching your ankles and feet regularly.