![]() Why choose a foot and ankle surgeon?įoot and ankle surgeons are the leading experts in foot and ankle care today. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine if surgery is necessary and will select the appropriate procedure or procedures based on the cause of the condition. Sometimes surgery is the best option for treating tarsal tunnel syndrome. Patients with flatfoot or those with severe symptoms and nerve damage may be fitted with a brace to reduce the amount of pressure on the foot. Custom shoe inserts may be prescribed to help maintain the arch and limit excessive motion that can cause compression of the nerve. Injections of a local anesthetic provide pain relief, and an injected corticosteroid may be useful in treating the inflammation. Ultrasound therapy, exercises and other physical therapy modalities may be prescribed to reduce symptoms. Restricting movement of the foot by wearing a cast is sometimes necessary to enable the nerve and surrounding tissue to heal. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help reduce the pain and inflammation. ![]() Use ice for 20 minutes and then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again. Apply an ice pack to the affected area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin. Staying off the foot prevents further injury and encourages healing. Many treatment options, often used in combination, are available to treat tarsal tunnel syndrome. Studies used to evaluate nerve problems-electromyography and nerve conduction velocity (EMG/NCV)-may be ordered if the condition shows no improvement with nonsurgical treatment. He or she will also press on the area to help determine if a small mass is present.Īdvanced imaging studies may be ordered if a mass is suspected or if initial treatment does not reduce the symptoms. During this examination, the surgeon will position the foot and tap on the nerve to see if the symptoms can be reproduced. The foot and ankle surgeon will examine the foot to arrive at a diagnosis and determine if there is any loss of feeling. In addition, because the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome can be confused with other conditions, proper evaluation is essential so that a correct diagnosis can be made and appropriate treatment initiated. If left untreated, the condition progresses and may result in permanent nerve damage. It is important to seek early treatment if any of the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome occur. They are often brought on or aggravated by overuse of the foot, such as in prolonged standing, walking, exercising or beginning a new exercise program. Sometimes the symptoms of the syndrome appear suddenly. In others, it may extend to the heel, arch, toes and even the calf. In some people, a symptom may be isolated and occur in just one spot. Symptoms are typically felt on the inside of the ankle and/or on the bottom of the foot.
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