Foot & Ankle Care
The average person walks more than 125,000 miles in a lifetime. Walking this distance over the course of a lifetime requires a person’s feet to be strong and stable.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Foot & Ankle Specialists At Wisconsin Bone & Joint
The physicians at Wisconsin Bone & Joint utilize cutting-edge technology to assess, diagnose and work with patients to develop innovative treatment plans for a variety of foot and ankle conditions and injuries. Our team of physicians are committed to providing you with the best treatment options to alleviate your foot and ankle pain.
Providing trusted Orthopedic care in the community for over 40+ years
At Wisconsin Bone and Joint, we pride ourselves with providing you highly personalized and comprehensive orthopedic care. Our philosophy of direct physician-to-patient care means your physician will be an intrical part of every stage of your care. This commitment to a dedicated continuum-of-care model has made us one of the most trusted and respected practices in Southeast Wisconsin and greater Milwaukee area.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is compression or squeezing on the posterior tibial nerve at the inner aspect of the ankle. This painful condition is often due to injury or inflammation. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, tarsal tunnel refers to the compression of a nerve in a confined space. The tarsal tunnel is an area created by the very strong, laciniate ligament that covers a bony canal through which pass some of the major nerve, artery, vein, and tendons of the foot. Individuals who suffer from tarsal tunnel syndrome exhibit symptoms that include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, and shooting pain. These symptoms occur most often at rest or just before sleeping at night.
What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome may be caused by:
*An injury such as a fracture, ankle sprain, or contusion
*Arthritis
*Diabetes
*Masses pressing on the nerve
*Strenuous athletic activity
*Varicose veins that press on the nerve
*Abnormally large nerves which result in the compression against the ligament that covers the tarsal tunnel
*Continuous, multiple traumas that stretch the nerve
*Compensating for other leg or foot problems such as short leg syndrome, hip and knee abnormalities, or heel pain
What Are The Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electrical shock.
- Numbness.
- Pain, including shooting pain.
What Are The Treatment Options For Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Fortunately, most cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome generally heal by themselves with rest and elimination of the inciting activity. Soft and supportive shoes, orthotics, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed for mild cases of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Severe cases, however, require prompt treatment to help prevent nerve damage.
A physician will start the treatment by testing the nerve to rule out other nerve conditions and to confirm the diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome. After confirmation, treatment begins by reducing the inflammation of the nerve with the use of bracing as well as rest.
If the condition does not respond to initial nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be required to explore the tarsal tunnel and release the pressure on the nerve.
Our team is here for you
When conservative care and treatment is appropriate, we offer the best, least invasive, least aggressive treatment options to relieve your pain and discomfort. When an injury is more serious and conservative care is not an option, our orthopedic surgeons provide the latest in innovative surgical interventions available with the goal of getting you back to the life you love. Wisconsin Bone & Joint physicians offer orthopedic services at three convenient locations in Mayfair, Glendale and Cedarburg.