Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome results from pressure on the nerves that run from the backside of the leg to the ankle. Individuals who spend most of their day standing are much more likely to develop tarsal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms include painful tingling or burning from the toes to the ankle. Additionally, individuals will likely experience pain when standing or constant numbness.
There are several treatment methods that have proven to be effective for controlling or easing the signs and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Read about the potential treatment methods below:
Initial Treatment
When you first begin to feel the signs and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, you should use ice to relieve them. The ice will help to relieve swelling. Additionally, in order to speed along the process of healing, you should rest as much as possible, as being on your feet will aggravate the condition.
Medication
In most cases, individuals experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome will take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, to relieve the swelling and pain of tarsal tunnel syndrome. NSAIDs include ibuprofen and aspirins.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves using both strengthening exercises as well as ultrasound therapy. The ultrasound works to treat injuries to soft tissue, using high-frequency sound waves. It has been suggested that ultrasound therapy can actually have an effect on healing time.
Injection Therapy
Injection therapy describes using local injections of anesthetics in order to control the pain of tarsal tunnel syndrome. In some cases, the injections also include corticosteroids in order to help with the treatment of inflammation.
Support
Support treatment involves the use of various devices, such as orthotic devices, or insoles to support the arch of the foot. Additionally, individuals can use support shoes in order to relieve their signs and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Custom braces can be made to fit the ankle and foot in order to reduce the pressure being put on the tibial nerve.
Surgery
If no other type of treatment works, then your physician may recommend surgery. However, this is the last option. This involves performing surgery in order to relieve nerve compression.
Dr. Ian S. Goldbaum is a Podiatric Physician and Surgeon serving patients in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach.
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16244 S. Military Trail #290, Delray Beach, FL 33445
561-499-0033
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8198 Jog Road #100, Boynton Beach, FL 33472
561-499-0033
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