Near the top of your foot by the ankle joint, there is a section of your foot that forms a tunnel that carries the nerves, blood vessels, and other components that make it possible for your foot to move and have feeling. One of the primary nerves that run through this defacto tunnel is called the ‘tibial’ nerve, and when it is affected the result can be tarsal tunnel trouble.

Since the nerves in this area are particularly susceptible to compression and damage from stress and pressure to the surrounding tissues, severe pain and tingling can be felt until the nerve heals.

Symptoms and risk factors for developing tarsal tunnel nerve compression include the following:

• Pain, burning and tingling in the affected foot
• Having untreated flat feet makes you more susceptible to developing this problem
• Injury to the foot or ankle can damage the tarsal tunnel and the tibial nerve
• Diabetes and arthritis can contribute to tarsal tunnel trouble.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be difficult to identify since it has similar symptoms to other foot problems, so always consult with your podiatrist for the correct diagnosis. A physical examination of the foot, nerve conduction studies, and x-rays or MRI will be needed.

Treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome includes the following:

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with pain and swelling. Specially designed braces and custom orthotic inserts can be used to move pressure away from the nerve. In the more serious cases, surgery may be needed to remove the pressure from the nerve.

If you are worried that tarsal tunnel problems are causing nerve pain in your feet, seeing your podiatrist is the best way to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Payel Ghosh and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.