Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve condition in the foot very similar to the more commonly known carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a nerve condition that affects the wrist. In both syndromes, pressure on a major nerve causes the problems of burning, numbness, pain, and tingling. In the case of the tarsal tunnel, this is the tibial nerve that passes through a hollow area in the ankle (the tarsal tunnel) along with other nerves, blood vessels, etc.… that supply your foot.
A variety of conditions and injuries can contribute to inflammation in the tarsal tunnel and surrounding area contributing to the formation of the syndrome.
4 risk factors for developing tarsal tunnel syndrome include the following:
- Having varicose veins makes nerve compression more likely
- Stress and inflammation from a poorly treated ankle injury
- A complication of systemic disease like osteoarthritis and diabetes
- Pronation and other arch abnormalities that put pressure on the tarsal tunnel area
Some of the symptoms of tarsal tunnel trouble include the following:
- Loss of feeling in the toes
- A tingling or burning sensation
- Radiating shooting pain into other areas of the foot and lower leg
If you are experiencing symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, consult with your foot care professional to help prevent any further complications. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown, PA. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.