Topics
collapse
About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Diagnostics
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome FAQ
Schedule Your Appointment
Burning, tingling, or numbness along the inside of your ankle or bottom of your foot?
You may be experiencing Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome — a nerve compression condition that can make every step painful. At Feet for Life, our podiatrists specialize in identifying and treating nerve-related foot pain with precise diagnosis and advanced solutions.
About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Diagnostics
What Does Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Feel Like?
Many patients don’t know the term “tarsal tunnel,” but they recognize the symptoms:
- Burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” in the arch or heel
- Shooting pain from the ankle into the toes
- Numbness or weakness in the foot after standing
- Discomfort that worsens with tight shoes or long days on your feet
If this sounds familiar, you may have compression of the posterior tibial nerve — the key nerve that runs through a small space inside your ankle called the tarsal tunnel.
What Causes the Pain?
Tarsal tunnel pain develops when the nerve is squeezed by swelling, tight structures, or biomechanical issues such as:
- Flat feet or fallen arches that stretch the nerve
- Previous ankle sprains or fractures
- Cysts, varicose veins, or bone spurs pressing on the nerve
- Systemic inflammation from arthritis or diabetes
- Poor footwear or repetitive strain from sports and standing
Over time, nerve compression can lead to chronic pain and permanent numbness — so early evaluation is essential.
Expert Diagnosis at Feet for Life
At Feet for Life, our doctors use a comprehensive diagnostic process to identify nerve compression precisely:
- Detailed symptom mapping — when, where, and how the pain occurs
- Physical exam & Tinel’s test — detecting tenderness or nerve response
- On-site ultrasound or MRI to visualize swelling or structural causes
- Nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) if deeper evaluation is needed
- Gait and pressure analysis to uncover how foot structure contributes
This detailed assessment helps us rule out look-alike conditions like plantar fasciitis or diabetic neuropathy — ensuring you get the right treatment, fast.
Tarsal tunnel Pain Treatment
Nn-Surical Treatment
Our goal is always to relieve pain without surgery whenever possible.
Treatment may include:
- Custom orthotics to reduce strain and realign the foot
- Supportive footwear or braces to offload pressure
- Physical therapy and nerve-gliding exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medication or targeted injections
- Ice, rest, and activity modification protocols
These conservative methods often restore comfort when started early.
Tarsal Tunnel Release Surgery
If symptoms persist despite non-surgical care, tarsal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure removes pressure from the nerve by freeing space in the tunnel and addressing any cysts, bone spurs, or scar tissue.
Our board-certified podiatrists perform this under local anesthesia for minimal downtime and fast recovery.
Here is why many patients choose Feet for Life:
- Board-certified podiatrists experienced in nerve decompression and foot biomechanics
- On-site imaging and orthotic lab for complete care in one place
- Personalized plans — we treat the cause, not just the symptoms
- Two convenient locations: St. Louis & Chesterfield
- Focus on prevention and comfort — so you can get back to walking pain-free
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tarsal tunnel syndrome the same as plantar fasciitis?
No. Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain due to ligament strain, while tarsal tunnel syndrome is nerve compression inside the ankle
Mild cases may improve with rest and footwear changes, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a podiatrist to prevent nerve damage.
Most patients return to light activity within 2–3 weeks and full activity within 6–8 weeks, depending on healing and nerve response.
Schedule Your Consultation
Don’t Ignore Tingling or Numbness in Your Foot
Nerve pain rarely improves on its own. If you’ve noticed burning, shooting, or tingling sensations in your ankle or arch, now is the time to get evaluated.
Early diagnosis means easier recovery and better results. Call us today to learn more or schedule your appointment.
