Tarsal Tunnel Syndrom: When Nerves Get Caught in a Tight Spot!
Are you experiencing pain, tingling, or numbness in your feet? You might be suffering from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS). It’s like carpal tunnel syndrome, but for your feet! It occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed within the tarsal tunnel, located on the inside of the ankle.
Osteopathic treatment offers a holistic approach to managing TTS by addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes. Give us a call on (03) 8360 8363 to make an appointment at Altona Meadows Osteopathy if your tootsies are tingling and need our tender care. In the meantime, let’s dive into what Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is, how it develops, and how osteopathy can help alleviate your discomfort.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space on the inside of the ankle, formed by the bones of the foot and a thick ligament called the flexor retinaculum. Inside this tunnel run several important structures, including tendons, arteries, and yep – you guessed it, the posterior tibial nerve. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, leading to a variety of symptoms in the foot and ankle.
Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
TTS can develop due to several factors, many of which are linked to structural or postural issues. Here are some common causes:
- Cysts or growths: Ganglion cysts, bone spurs, or other growths can physically compress the nerve.
- Flat feet: If the arch of the foot collapses, it can stretch and compress the posterior tibial nerve.
- Overuse: Activities that involve prolonged standing or repetitive ankle movements can contribute to nerve irritation.
- Injury or trauma: An ankle sprain or fracture may cause swelling or scar tissue, which can narrow the tarsal tunnel.
- Arthritis or inflammation: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase pressure within the tunnel due to inflammation.
When you overdo it, this muscle can pull on the periosteum (the thin layer of tissue hugging your bone), leading to that familiar, unwelcome pain. But it’s not just the tibialis posterior that’s working overtime—the soleus, deep within your calf, and the flexor digitorum longus, which flexes your toes, are also in the mix. When these muscles get tired, they tug on their tendons and the surrounding tissues, causing microtrauma and inflammation. In short, your shins are screaming for a break.
Symptoms to watch out for
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome may present with various symptoms, which can worsen over time if left untreated. Common complaints include:
- Pain: A burning or shooting pain along the inside of the ankle, extending into the foot.
- Numbness: Loss of sensation, particularly on the sole of the foot or the toes.
- Tingling: A pins-and-needles sensation, especially after prolonged activity.
- Weakness: In severe cases, the muscles of the foot may weaken due to prolonged nerve compression.
These symptoms are typically worse after physical activity or when standing for extended periods. If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s important to seek professional help before the condition progresses.
How osteopathy can help
Osteopathy offers a natural, hands-on approach to managing Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Rather than focusing solely on relieving the nerve compression, osteopathic treatment addresses the entire body’s structure to promote healing and improve function. Here’s how osteopathic care can benefit patients with TTS:
- Addressing biomechanical imbalances: Osteopaths will assess the posture, gait, and alignment. Perhaps you have flat feet or an anterior or posterior pelvic tilt both of which can lead to overpronation of the feet while walking. And overpronation can contribute to TTS. So we’ll look for postural imbalances and work to correct them. We might also refer you to a podiatrist (another allied health professional who specialises in feet) for custom orthotics, while we focus on biomechanics in your lower limbs and elsewhere in the body. By improving foot and ankle alignment, you reduce pressure on the posterior tibial nerve.1
- Manual therapy: Osteopathic manipulation techniques can help release tension in the muscles and fascia surrounding the tarsal tunnel. Gentle stretching and mobilisation techniques aim to relieve compression on the nerve, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation.
- Soft tissue work: Targeted massage can also help reduce muscle tension in the calf and foot muscles that might be contributing to the compression. This can enhance flexibility and restore normal movement in the ankle.
- Exercise and rehabilitation: Your osteopath may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and lower leg, and even in your core muscles, which can support better foot posture and help prevent recurrence of TTS. Stretching exercises for the calf and Achilles tendon are often included to relieve pressure on the nerve.
- Footwear and lifestyle advice: Osteopaths often provide guidance on footwear that supports your arches and reduces strain on the foot. Proper footwear can help alleviate pressure on the posterior tibial nerve, especially if you’re dealing with flat feet or other structural issues.
What to expect from osteopathic treatment
Osteopathic care for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is tailored to each individual’s specific needs.
Most patients with TTS respond well to osteopathic care, particularly when combined with changes in activity or footwear to address underlying causes. If you’re experiencing foot pain or numbness we hope you’ll reach out to us on (03) 8360 8363 sooner rather than later as early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening, but we’re here to help at any step in the journey.
Conclusion: Don’t let Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome slow you down!
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right care, relief is possible. Osteopathic treatment offers a comprehensive approach to managing TTS by addressing not only the symptoms but also the root causes of the problem. If you’re experiencing foot pain or suspect you might have TTS, call (03) 8360 8363 to schedule an appointment with one of our osteopaths at Altona Meadows Osteopathy. We’re here to help get you back on your feet—literally!
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Information provided here (including text, graphics, images, outbound links, and other material) is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and is not to be used or considered as a substitute for personalised professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified allied health provider regarding any symptoms, medical conditions, or treatments and before undertaking any new health care regimen.