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Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Written by Tele Demetrious

Updated:

(Also known as Posterior Tibial Nerve Entrapment)

What is tarsal tunnel syndrome?

The tarsal tunnel is a groove which lies at the inner aspect of the ankle, behind the bony prominence known as the medial malleolus (figure 1). A nerve known as the posterior tibial nerve lies within this groove and may become compressed due to trauma such as rolling the ankle or due to repetitive strain associated with an excessively pronated (flat) foot. When this nerve becomes compressed, the condition is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Anatomy
Figure 1 – Anatomy of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Signs and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome

Patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome typically experience pain radiating into the arch of the foot, heel and occasionally the toes. There may also be pins and needles or numbness on the sole of the foot. Symptoms are typically worse during weight bearing activity such as walking, standing or running.

Diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome

A thorough subjective and objective examination from a physiotherapist may be sufficient to diagnose tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diagnosis can be confirmed with nerve conduction studies.

Treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome

A physiotherapy program is the first line of treatment for patients with this condition. The success rate of treatment is largely dictated by patient compliance. One of the key components of treatment is that the patient rests sufficiently from any activity that increases their pain until they are symptom free (crutches may be required). This allows the body to begin the healing process in the absence of further tissue damage. Once the patient can perform these activities pain free, a gradual return to these activities is indicated provided there is no increase in symptoms. 

Ignoring symptoms or adopting a ‘no pain, no gain’ attitude is likely to lead to the condition becoming chronic. Once chronic, healing slows significantly resulting in markedly increased recovery times and an increased likelihood of future recurrence. Immediate appropriate treatment in all patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome is vital to ensure an optimal outcome.

Following the R.I.C.E. Regime particularly with regular icing and anti-inflammatory medication may help to significantly reduce inflammation in the initial phase of this condition. A graduated flexibility, strength and balance program under direction from a physiotherapist is important to ensure an optimal outcome

In the final stages of rehabilitation, a gradual return to activity or sport should occur under guidance from the treating practitioner and provided there is no increase in symptoms.

Contributing factors to the development of tarsal tunnel syndrome

There are several factors which can predispose patients to developing tarsal tunnel syndrome. These need to be assessed and corrected with direction from the treating physiotherapist and may include:

Physiotherapy for tarsal tunnel syndrome

Physiotherapy treatment is vital to hasten the healing process, ensure an optimal outcome and reduce the likelihood of injury recurrence in all patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treatment may comprise:

Other intervention for tarsal tunnel syndrome

Despite appropriate physiotherapy management, some patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome do not improve adequately. When this occurs the treating physiotherapist or doctor can advise on the best course of management. This may include review with a podiatrist for possible orthotics, corticosteroid and anaesthetic injection into the tarsal tunnel or review by a specialist who will advise on any procedures that may be appropriate to improve the condition. Occasionally, decompressive surgery is required to alleviate pressure on the posterior tibial nerve.

Exercises for tarsal tunnel syndrome

The following exercises are commonly prescribed to patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. You should discuss the suitability of these exercises with your physiotherapist prior to beginning them. Generally, they should be performed 3 times daily and only provided they do not cause or increase symptoms.

Foot and Ankle Up and Down

Move your foot and ankle up and down as far as possible and comfortable without pain (figure 2). Repeat 10 – 20 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.

Exercises for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome - Foot & Ankle Up & Down
Figure 2 – Foot and Ankle Up and Down (left leg)

Foot and Ankle In and Out

Move your foot and ankle in and out as far as possible and comfortable without pain (figure 3). Repeat 10 – 20 times provided there is no increase in symptoms.

Exercises for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome - Foot & Ankle In & Out
Figure 3 – Foot and Ankle In and Out (right leg)

Foot and Ankle Circles

Move your foot and ankle in a circle as large as possible and comfortable without pain (figure 4). Repeat 10 times in each direction provided there is no increase in symptoms.

Exercises for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome - Foot & Ankle Circles

Figure 4 – Foot and Ankle Circles

Physiotherapy products for tarsal tunnel syndrome

Some of the most commonly recommended products by physiotherapist to hasten healing and speed recovery in patients with this condition include:

To purchase physiotherapy products for tarsal tunnel syndrome click on one of the above links or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.

More information

Find a Physio for tarsal tunnel syndrome

Find a Physiotherapist in your local area who can treat tarsal tunnel syndrome.

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