Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

What is tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a painful disorder of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel that can be found below the ankle on the inner side of the foot. If it is put under pressure or becomes damaged then it may stop working properly which can lead to pain.

Cause

It is caused by pressure on the tibial nerve in the tunnel between a sheet of connective tissue and the Achilles tendon. The most well-known cause is a sprained ankle. Thyroid disease, gout and diabetes may also cause this condition. Sudden occurrence of tarsal tunnel syndrome is sometimes seen in marathon runners and is also known as jogger's foot.

Signs and symptoms

In tarsal tunnel syndrome there is burning pain and altered sensation on the underside of the forefoot, in the toes and in the heel. The symptoms are brought on by walking.

How is tarsal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

The diagnosis can be made based on the symptoms and by exclusion of other causes. A neurological examination must always take place.

Do I need additional examinations?

  • Diagnostic examination for other non-physical factors important for your pain, have already been done by yourself trough filling out your pain questionnaires.
  • EMG.
  • diagnostic test block of this nerve can confirm the diagnosis.

What are my treatment possibilities?

Multidisciplinary Treatment

Depending on the cause of your pain, your pain specialist will decide whether or not to embark on physical treatment. Based on the results of the completed pain questionnaire, additional examinations can be carried out and, apart from physical treatment, other methods of treatment will be suggested.

Non-physical Treatments

If the results of your pain questionnaire are abnormal, your pain specialist will offer you one of the non-physical treatments listed below:

Physical Treatments

Medication

Interventional Pain Treatments

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