Nerve conditions in extremities are pretty common — just ask anyone who’s ever had their foot fall asleep. Neuropathy sounds scary, but it generally just refers to that tingling sensation you get when you’ve been sitting awkwardly. However, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is one type of specific compression neuropathy that can be more serious if you experience it constantly. Learn what to know about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome below.
What Exactly Is TTS?
The Tarsal Tunnel refers to a specific part of your body, found behind the bone on the inside of your ankle. It serves many functions, one of which is to facilitate travel of the tibial nerve. When it’s compressed, it causes numbness, burning and tingling. It can even cause electrical sensations throughout the toes and heel or sometimes the entire foot. The amount of pain and the location is often determined by the location of where the nerve is compressed, so high entrapment will cause more pain on the ankle and potentially greater problems with the full bundle of nerves in this area.
What Can You Do?
Giving you feet a break can help prevent TTS, so ensure you’re giving your legs the rest they deserve. Do basic stretching before working out to keep the pathways in the foot open and wear properly fitting shoes. If you’re especially at risk for this condition, you may want to do a preventative wrapping of your foot and ankle, and ensure that you’re doing strength training exercises to increase your chances of fending off TTS.
Ice and immobilization is often recommended for minor cases, but you may need further intervention if you’re experiencing problems on a regular basis. For more information or tips on what to know about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, call Southwest Foot & Ankle Center at 972-318-2738 in Lewisville, 972-805-9985 in Plano or 972-318-2655 for an appointment in Irving.
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