Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inner side of the ankle.
What people may notice
Symptoms are mainly in the foot, and they can reach the ankle. People may describe:
- Burning, numbness or tingling in the sole of the foot or the toes
- Pain at the ankle, the sole or the toes
- Weakness in the muscles that move the toes
- Symptoms that are worse with long periods of standing or walking and ease with rest
- Pain that disturbs sleep
What may contribute
Pressure on the nerve can come from different things, and sometimes no cause is found. Things linked with it include:
- An ankle injury, such as a sprain or fracture, and the swelling that follows
- Growths near the nerve, such as bone spurs or ganglion cysts, or varicose veins
- Foot shape, such as flat feet or high arches
- Conditions that can affect nerves, such as diabetes, arthritis or an underactive thyroid
What an evaluation may look at
- Where symptoms are felt, how they began and what brings them on or eases them
- Sensation, movement and strength in the ankle, foot and toes
- Gentle tapping over the nerve and other tests, to see whether symptoms can be brought on
- Whether another cause, such as plantar fasciitis, needs to be ruled out
- Whether nerve tests or imaging are needed, which a medical professional arranges
When to get medical care first
See the full safety checklist
Contact a medical professional if:
- You notice symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, such as burning, numbness or tingling in the sole of the foot or the toes, or pain at the ankle
- You notice weakness in the muscles that move the toes
Information on a website is not a diagnosis.
How Physical Therapy may fit
A plan is based on the evaluation. Depending on the findings, it may include some, all or none of the following:
- Nerve gliding exercises
- Strengthening and flexibility exercises for the foot and ankle
- Hands-on manual therapy
- Balance and coordination practice
- Taping, shoe inserts or bracing when they fit the evaluation and plan
- Education about what may be putting stress on the nerve
These approaches each have their own page:
Request an appointment
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