Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in New Canaan, CT
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression condition involving the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel — a narrow channel on the inner side of the ankle. Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause significant pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot that affects daily life.
At New Canaan Podiatry in New Canaan, CT , Dr. Jennifer Tauber, DPM, provides expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome. Call (203) 548-7688 or request an appointment online today.
Book OnlineWhat Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when something increases pressure on the posterior tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. Common causes include:
- Flat feet or overpronation, which causes the ankle to roll inward and places traction stress on the nerve
- Space-occupying lesions within the tunnel such as cysts, lipomas, varicose veins, or bone spurs
- Inflammation from arthritis or tendinitis around the tarsal tunnel
- Ankle swelling following a sprain or fracture
- Systemic conditions such as diabetes or hypothyroidism that increase susceptibility to nerve compression
- Prolonged standing on hard surfaces
Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Burning, tingling, or electric-shock sensations on the bottom of the foot and into the toes
- Numbness in the sole of the foot
- Pain along the inner ankle that may radiate into the arch and heel
- Symptoms that worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or after a long day on your feet
- Symptoms that improve with rest and elevation
- A positive Tinel’s sign — tapping over the tarsal tunnel reproduces tingling or electrical sensation
Treatment at New Canaan Podiatry
- Custom orthotics to correct overpronation and reduce mechanical traction on the posterior tibial nerve
- Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections within the tarsal tunnel to reduce swelling and nerve pressure
- Ankle bracing to limit excessive pronation motion
- MLS Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation around the nerve non-invasively
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies for objective nerve function assessment (arranged externally)
- Diagnostic ultrasound to identify space-occupying lesions compressing the nerve
- Surgical decompression referral for cases with a space-occupying lesion or failure of conservative care
Frequently Asked Questions
How is tarsal tunnel syndrome different from plantar fasciitis?
Both conditions cause heel and arch pain, but they have different causes and characteristics. Plantar fasciitis is a structural inflammation of the plantar fascia tendon. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression condition causing burning, tingling, or electric sensations. Both can coexist and Dr. Tauber will evaluate for both during your assessment.
Does tarsal tunnel syndrome go away on its own?
Mild cases related to temporary swelling or overuse may improve with rest and conservative management. However, when a structural cause is present — such as a ganglion cyst or significant overpronation — the condition typically requires treatment to resolve.
Can flat feet cause tarsal tunnel syndrome?
Yes. Flat feet and overpronation are among the most common contributing factors to tarsal tunnel syndrome because the inward rolling of the ankle stretches and compresses the posterior tibial nerve within the tunnel. Custom orthotics that correct overpronation are often a central component of treatment.
Is tarsal tunnel syndrome the same as peripheral neuropathy?
No. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a localized compression neuropathy affecting a specific nerve at a specific anatomical location. Peripheral neuropathy is a systemic condition affecting multiple nerves throughout the peripheral nervous system. Both can cause numbness and tingling in the feet, so accurate diagnosis is important.
How is tarsal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, symptom history, and a positive Tinel’s sign. Dr. Tauber may use diagnostic ultrasound to identify structural causes within the tunnel, and may refer for nerve conduction studies to objectively assess posterior tibial nerve function.
Can tarsal tunnel syndrome cause permanent nerve damage?
In severe or longstanding cases where the nerve is subjected to prolonged pressure without treatment, permanent nerve damage can occur. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent this outcome.
What is the success rate of tarsal tunnel surgery?
Surgical tarsal tunnel release (decompression) has good success rates — approximately 70% to 90% of patients experience meaningful improvement when surgery is performed for the right indications. However, Dr. Tauber typically pursues all appropriate conservative options before recommending surgical referral.