tarsal tunnel syndrome

What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed or damaged, leading to various symptoms in the foot and ankle. This compression can cause numbness, tingling, pain, and burning sensations in the affected area.

Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

The exact causes of TTS are not well understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Compression of the posterior tibial nerve by a variety of structures, including tendons, ligaments, or bones
• Overuse or repetitive stress on the foot and ankle
• Poorly fitting shoes or orthotics
• Inflammation or swelling in the affected area
• Trauma or injury to the foot or ankle

Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of TTS can vary from person to person, but common complaints include:

• Tingling or numbness in the foot and ankle
• Pain or burning sensations in the heel, arch, or sole of the foot
• Weakness or fatigue in the foot muscles
• Difficulty walking or standing due to pain or discomfort

References:

• [1] Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a condition that occurs when you have tibial nerve damage. There are many effective nonsurgical treatments for TTS.
• [2] Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include tingling, numbness, and pain; ...
• [3] Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) may cause numbness and inner ankle pain in your foot.
• [4] Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a compressive neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve.
• [5] Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a multifaceted compression neuropathy that typically manifests with pain and paresthesias that radiate from the medial ...
• [6] Tarsal tunnel syndrome is pain in the ankle, foot, and sometimes toes caused by compression of or damage to the nerve supplying the heel and sole (posterior ...

Common Signs and Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a condition that affects the foot, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the bottom of the foot and toes. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are some common signs and symptoms associated with TTS:

• Pain: Pain is one of the most common symptoms of TTS, often described as a shooting pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the foot [1].
• Tingling or Burning Sensation: A tingling or burning sensation in the foot, similar to an electrical shock, can also occur [3].
• Numbness: Numbness or a lack of feeling in the foot and toes is another symptom of TTS [2][4].
• Pain Radiating into the Foot: Pain that radiates into the foot, often worsened by walking or weight-bearing activities, can be a sign of TTS [4].
• Swollen Feet: People with chronically swollen feet are more likely to experience TTS symptoms [2].

Other Possible Causes

In some cases, tarsal tunnel syndrome may be caused by:

• Swelling from an injury, such as a dislocated, sprained, or broken ankle
• An abnormal growth, such as a bone spur, lump in the joint (ganglion cyst)
• Compression of the posterior tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel

It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as prompt treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

References: [1] - Context result 1 [2] - Context result 4 [3] - Context result 3 [4] - Context result 8

Diagnostic Tests for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) can be diagnosed using a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and various diagnostic tests. Here are some of the common tests used to diagnose TTS:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination by a primary care provider or an orthopedic specialist is usually the first step in diagnosing TTS. This includes reviewing your symptoms, health history, and performing a physical examination of your foot.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound can help identify any bone spurs, cysts, or other masses that may be compressing the tibial nerve.
• Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): NCS measures the speed and strength of electrical signals traveling through the nerves. This test can help determine if there is damage to the tibial nerve.
• Electromyography (EMG): EMG measures the electrical activity of muscles. This test can help identify muscle weakness or atrophy caused by TTS.
• Hoffman-Tinel's Test: This test involves tapping on the nerve in the ankle to see if it causes pain or numbness in the foot.

According to [4], the diagnosis is usually made by correlating clinical history, imaging tests, NCSs, and EMG. A combination of these tests can help confirm a diagnosis of TTS.

Additional Tests

In some cases, additional tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms. These may include:

• Urinalysis: To check for any underlying kidney problems.
• Fasting Serum Glucose Level: To check for diabetes or high blood sugar levels.
• Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c/HgA1c): To check for diabetes or high blood sugar levels.

According to [5], the initial evaluation should include these tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.

References

[4] EC Rodríguez-Merchán · 2021 · Cited by 18 — The diagnosis is usually made by correlating clinical history, imaging tests, nerve conduction studies (NCSs) and electromyography (EMG).

[5] Jul 23, 2024 — The initial evaluation should include urinalysis and tests of the fasting serum glucose level, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c/HgA1c), blood urea nitrogen ...

[6] Diagnosis of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. A doctor's examination of the foot. Sometimes nerve conduction studies. Sometimes MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). To ...

Treatment Options for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be effectively managed with various treatment options, including drug therapy.

• Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) may help alleviate pain and inflammation in the affected area [1][2].
• Steroid injections: Local injection of steroids into the tarsal canal can be an effective conservative approach to managing symptoms [4].
• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may also be used to relieve pain and inflammation [3][5].

These medications can help reduce pressure and swelling in the tarsal tunnel, thereby alleviating symptoms. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

[1] - Using an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen to control pain; Wrapping your foot in a compression bandage or brace; Using arch supports, [6] [2] - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) may decrease pain and inflammation. Your [2] [3] - At first, treatment may include rest, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen. It can also include footwear that [3] [4] - Jul 23, 2024 — Medical therapy for tarsal tunnel syndrome may consist of local injection of steroids into the tarsal canal. An acceptable conservative approach [4] [5] - Oct 3, 2024 — Over-the-counter pain medicine, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help relieve pain and swelling. If symptoms are [5] [6] - Using an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen to control pain; Wrapping your foot in a compression bandage or brace; Using arch supports, [6]

Note: The references provided are based on the search results context, which includes information about various treatment options for tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Differential Diagnosis of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) can be challenging to diagnose, and a thorough differential diagnosis is essential to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. The following are some of the key differential diagnoses for TTS:

• Plantar fasciitis: This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, which can cause pain and stiffness in the heel and bottom of the foot [1][2].
• **Lumbosacral radic