What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through the tarsal tunnel - a narrow space near the inside of the ankle.
It’s similar to carpal tunnel in the wrist but affects the foot and ankle.
Symptoms & What You May Experience
- Burning, tingling, or numbness in the sole, arch, or toes
- Shooting or electric pain on the inside of the ankle
- Symptoms worse with walking, standing, or tight footwear
- Cramping or weakness in the foot
- Pain that may radiate up the leg
- Relief when resting or elevating the foot
Symptoms may be intermittent or persistent.
What causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Causes include:
- Flat feet or overpronation
- Ankle sprains leading to swelling or scar tissue
- Varicose veins, cysts, or bony changes compressing the nerve
- Tight footwear or orthotics
- Inflammation from arthritis or tendinopathy
- Diabetes or neuropathy increasing nerve sensitivity
How We Help (At Victoria Park Osteopaths)
Treatment focuses on relieving nerve irritation and improving mechanics:
- Mobilisation of the ankle, foot, and surrounding joints
- Strengthening and gait retraining
- Soft tissue therapy for muscles and fascia around the nerve
- Nerve gliding exercises
- Orthotic and footwear advice
- Offloading strategies to reduce compression
- Adjuncts such as
taping or acupuncture when needed
Recovery Time & What to Expect
- Mild cases improve within 4–8 weeks
- Chronic compression may take several months
- Addressing biomechanics is essential to avoid recurrence
- Referral for imaging or injection may be needed in resistant cases
When to Seek Medical Review / Red Flags
Immediate review is recommended if you notice:
- Persistent numbness or weakness
- Rapid worsening of symptoms
- Loss of balance or foot control
- Signs of infection, swelling, or cysts
