As computers started becoming more prevalent in workspaces and classrooms, doctors began to see an increase in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome. This particular medical issue develops in the wrist and is actually fairly similar to a problem that can arise in your ankle – tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome might not be quite as prevalent as carpal tunnel syndrome, but your painful symptoms need to be addressed, and our doctors can handle this for you any of our Austin offices.
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Why Does it Happen?
The best starting point for looking at this particular ailment is with a structure found on the inner edge of your ankle known as the tarsal tunnel.
This is a narrow space covered by a thick ligament (the flexor retinaculum) which serves to protect the anatomical structures it contains – tendons, nerves, arteries, and veins. As it relates to this condition, an important nerve found within the “tunnel” is your posterior tibial nerve.
The problem begins when there is a squeezing or compression on the posterior tibial nerve, and this is similar to the carpal tunnel syndrome that can occur in the wrist. In both cases, the root cause of pain and discomfort is compression on a nerve found in a confined space.
Down in your tarsal tunnel, the source of that compression can come from any of several different possibilities, such as arthritic bone spurs, ganglion cysts, swollen tendons, and varicose veins.
Some cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome develop in response to injury, particularly ones that cause swelling or inflammation in or near your tarsal tunnel. In other instances, a systemic disease (like arthritis or diabetes) causes the swelling.
Additionally, individuals who have flat feet also have higher risk, which can be attributed to an outward tilting of the heel as a result of the structural abnormality.
What Are Treatment Options for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
With regards to treatment for this particular condition, our hope is to use nonsurgical methods to relieve painful symptoms and provide the relief you need. These include:
- Ice. For 20 minute intervals, apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to the affected area a couple of times during the day. After an icing session, wait at least 40 minutes until repeating.
Immobilization. One of the best ways to allow the nerve and surrounding tissue to heal is by restricting the movement of the foot. This can be achieved with the use of a cast or brace. - Injection therapy. In addition to oral medication, many patients benefit from corticosteroids or local anesthetics as a means to treat inflammation in the tarsal tunnel.
Medication. You can reduce inflammation and pain with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and our doctors can provide you with appropriate dosage recommendations. - Orthotic devices or bracing. These can be used to either maintain the foot arch, which will limit the excessive motion that compresses the nerve, or reduce the amount of pressure faced by the affected foot.
Physical therapy. Physical therapy modalities, exercises, and ultrasound therapy are sometimes used to reduce painful symptoms. - Rest. Staying off the affected foot will allow the body to perform its natural healing processes, but this is also essential for preventing further injury.
Shoes. We will likely recommend supportive shoes to help improve the condition.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is just one of the various ailments that might be the source of your ankle pain, but our expert team at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help by diagnosing your condition and then providing an effective treatment plan.
We provide first-class podiatric services for patients from all across the greater Austin community, so come in and see for yourself exactly why they consistently choose us for their foot and ankle care.
Are You Looking for a Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Expert in Austin, TX?
If you are looking for tarsal tunnel syndrome care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.