What You Need To Know About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that lies on the inside of the ankle next to the ankle bones. The tunnel is covered with a thick ligament (the flexor retinaculum) that protects and maintains the structures contained within the tunnel—arteries, veins, tendons and nerves. One of these structures is the posterior tibial nerve, which is the focus of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a compression, or squeezing, on the posterior tibial nerve that produces symptoms anywhere along the path of the nerve running from the inside of the ankle into the foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, which occurs in the wrist. Both disorders arise from the compression of a nerve in a confined space.

4 Common Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Flat Feet

A person with flat feet is at risk for developing tarsal tunnel syndrome because the outward tilting of the heel that occurs with fallen arches can produce strain and compression on the nerve.

Injuries

Injuries, such as an ankle sprain or fracture, may produce inflammation and swelling in or near the tunnel, resulting in compression of the nerve.

Body-wide (systemic) conditions

Chronic disease, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or arthritis, which can cause swelling and inflammation leading to the compression of the nerve.

Masses or Irregular Growths

An enlarged or abnormal structure that occupies space within the tunnel can compress the nerve. Some examples include a varicose vein, ganglion cyst, swollen tendon or arthritic bone spur.

WHAT ARE YOUR NEXT STEPS FOR RELIEVING TARSAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

AT WELL THEORY, OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU CURATE A LIFE LIVED WELL

– IN A LASTING, HOLISTIC WAY.

1. aNTI-INFLAMMATORIES

You can take anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation, which may alleviate compression of the nerve. However, over the counter NSAIDs and synthetic anti-inflammatory medications can have side effects and be rough on your stomach. Try a natural alternative like the Joint Health Multi from The Well Theory that's designed to relieve joints while reducing inflammation over time with natural ingredients.

2. bRACES, sPLINTS, ORTHOTIC DEVICES

Custom shoe inserts may be prescribed to help maintain the arch and limit excessive motion that can cause compression of the nerve. Braces, splints or other orthotic devices may help reduce pressure on the foot and limit movement that could cause compression on the nerve.

3. sURGERY

In severe, long-term cases, tarsal tunnel release surgery may be required. The surgeon will make an incision from behind your ankle down to the arch of your foot, releasing the ligament and relieving the nerve.

A minimally invasive surgery in which the surgeon uses tiny instruments and much smaller incisions are made inside your ankle to stretch out the ligament. Because there’s less trauma sustained by the tissues, the risk of complications and recovery time are both reduced.

4. REST

Resting, icing, compression, and elevation, known as the RICE treatment, may also help reduce swelling and inflammation. Apply an ice pack to the affected area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again.

5. THE HEALING SOLE

While not specifically designed for Tarsal Tunnel The Healing Sole shoes incorporate a rocker bottom sole that is thought to decrease stress over the foot, knees, ankles, and back in general and also to increase the efficiency of a given muscle. We believe that there is a good chance that they will help due to general rest and recovery of the foot. However, no shoe will decompress the nerve, but The Healing Sole can allow the structures of the foot to be less stressed and more efficient in the setting of a nerve compression.

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