If you are experiencing extreme ankle pain, it could be tarsal tunnel syndrome. This condition only worsens if you do not seek medical treatment or diagnoses, and it can lead to long-term nerve pain and damage.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is foot pain caused by a compressed nerve in the ankle. It begins with the posterior tibial nerve compression in the tarsal tunnel and develops due to a prior ankle injury, such as a spraining or breaking. Varicose veins, ganglion cysts, swollen tendons, or bone spurs can also cause tarsal tunnel syndrome, alongside flat feet, swelling, arthritis, or diabetes, the latter of which can cause swelling or nerve compression.
Common Symptoms of TTS
The most common TTS symptoms are burning in the sole while standing, numbness, tingling at the base of the foot, and swelling around the ankle. Tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms can often be confused with other foot-related conditions. When the pain strikes, you should always seek a certified Chiropodist to diagnose and confirm you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
Diagnosing TTS
Diagnosing TTS requires a specialist. While it can seem more prudent to “take it easy” when you have ankle pain, it might not be in your best interest long-term. This approach can relieve some symptoms in many cases but will not lead to lasting recovery. You should seek a certified Chiropodist immediately if rest does not improve the condition.
To diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms, a Chiropodist will perform a comprehensive clinical exam and a complete medical history check. These two processes help ensure that the pain is not the result of something worse causing the symptoms, as well as your history of ankle pain and previous foot injuries.
Afterward, the Chiropodist may refer you to your physician to have electrical testing or imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. Electrical testing will check the nerves to see how they react and locate the root pain of tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Imaging will ensure the pain is not another fracture or ankle damage since the tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms are common among many different ankle pains. Following these steps, the Chiropodist can recommend treatment and recovery options.
Tarsal Tunnel Treatments
Ordinarily, you can manage tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medicine, or steroids. Depending on the severity, a Chiropodist may ultimately recommend surgical procedures. This process involves carefully dividing the ligaments so it doesn’t press down against the nerve causing tarsal tunnel syndrome.
How Can You Avoid Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
If the thought of having the back of your foot cut open isn’t pleasant, then we encourage you to monitor the symptoms of your ankle pain. The sooner you begin conservative intervention, the more likely you are able to avoid surgery. If you are concerned about tarsal tunnel syndrome treatment, contact us at Qureshy Foot and Orthotic Clinic. The regulated health professionals at the QFC clinic can help provide you with treatment, exercises and custom-orthotics. If you need a licensed Chiropodist with years of experience, contact us immediately at 905-723-3668 or book an appointment online to get the help you need.