Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Care

At MedStar Orthopaedic Institute, our foot and ankle specialists are all fellowship-trained in foot and ankle surgery and focus exclusively on managing problems related to the feet. When your feet or ankles are not working properly, it can significantly lower your quality of life. Our goal is to get you back on your feet and back to your regular life as quickly and painlessly as possible. We perform over a thousand foot and ankle surgeries each year, including tarsal tunnel surgery. We take the time to collaborate with other specialists that you may need during your treatment or recovery to ensure that you have the best experience possible and make a full and safe recovery.

What is the tarsal tunnel?

The tarsal tunnel is the portion of your body where the leg nerve (tibial nerve) travels down to the ankle. Many other structures are found here as well, including tendons, veins, and arteries, leaving little room for expansion.

What is tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a foot and ankle nerve disorder, which occurs when there is swelling in the tarsal tunnel, compressing the tibial nerve. Patients who are suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome often experience severe discomfort and pain in the inner foot and ankle, which may increase in sensitivity throughout the day. Walking and standing can become difficult and require constant breaks off the feet.

What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome?

There are a number of causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome, which results in compression of the tibial nerve. These include:

• Injuries, including ankle sprains
• Diseases, such as diabetes or arthritis
• Unnatural foot shape, including flat feet or fallen arches
• Enlarged or irregular foot structures, including varicose veins or bone spurs

What are the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Any of the following symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome may warrant a consultation with MedStar Orthopaedic Institute:

• Pain
• Burning
• Tingling

Sensations associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome may occur in any of these areas of the foot or ankle:

• Along the inside of the ankle
• Inner side of the heel
• Arch of the foot
• Inner sole of the foot

Symptoms tend to increase as the day progresses and are usually worsened with increased activity, such as walking or exercise. Prolonged standing in one place may also be an aggravating factor.

How is tarsal tunnel syndrome treated?

If you are suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is important to visit MedStar Orthopaedic Institute for a comprehensive evaluation. One of our skilled doctors may recommend conservative treatment when possible. This may include:

• Orthotics
• Ice
• Elevation
• Physical therapy
• Pain medication
• Cortisone injections
• Fascial stripping

In situations where conservative options are unsuccessful, your physician may recommend tarsal tunnel release surgery. Tarsal tunnel surgery is performed through a small incision behind the ankle bone on the inside of the foot and involves removing scar tissue in order to release the compressed nerve.

If you believe you may be suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome, call 202-295-0511 to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute. Our doctors have years of experience diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions and are pleased to offer comprehensive tarsal tunnel treatment in the Washington, D.C. area.