Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Omaha, NE

See the video of this procedure.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is very similar to Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Many people who suffer from Carpel Tunnel Syndrome may also suffer from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.

Tarsal Tunnel occurs on the inside of the ankle just behind the bone. The Posterior Tibial Nerve runs behind the ankle bone, through the Tarsal Tunnel and dives into the arch. It is similar to Carpel Tunnel Syndrome in the wrist and arises from compression of the nerve.

Some of the symptoms associated with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome are burning and tingling sensations in the heel, ankle, arch, toes and even up into the calf. The pain is not usually relieved with rest and may be painful at night. It is occasionally misdiagnosed as Plantar Fasciitis. Read more about it in the Peripheral Neuropathy section above.

There are many possible causes for nerve impingement, such as ganglions, fat, varicose veins, trauma, bone spurs, muscle impingement, or foot deformities.

Diagnosing the syndrome is usually done with a thorough foot exam. The podiatrist will tap on the nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel creating an electrical shock or tingling in the area and recreating the symptoms. Nerve conduction studies may be ordered to detect how well a pulse of electricity conducts through the nerve.

There are many different treatment modalities for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, such as rest, ice, oral medications, immobilization, physical therapy, injections, arch supports, shoes, braces, and possibly surgery. Your podiatrist will evaluate you and determine the best method of treatment for this syndrome. It is very important to seek early treatment as the condition may progress and result in permanent damage.

If surgery is necessary, it is performed through a small incision just under and behind the inside of the ankle. The incision measures approximately 1 inch. There is very little downtime with this procedure, and most often, you are back into your own shoes in a few days.