Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome and Its Causes

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. Causes can include injury, flat feet, swelling, or growths that put pressure on the nerve. Symptoms often involve tingling, burning, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot and ankle. Risk factors include repetitive stress, certain foot shapes, and medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve nerve pressure, and recommend treatments such as orthotics, or, in severe cases, surgery. If you have persistent ankle or foot nerve pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Newburg and Taylorsville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Causes of Swollen Feet and Ankles

Swollen feet and ankles can result from prolonged standing, inflammation, pregnancy, or underlying health conditions. Common medical causes include issues with the liver, kidneys, or heart, which can lead to fluid retention and discomfort. Inflammation from injuries or chronic conditions such as arthritis may also contribute to swelling. During pregnancy, the body naturally holds more fluid, leading to puffiness in the lower limbs. A podiatrist can assess your symptoms, identify the cause, and recommend treatments to reduce swelling and improve circulation. Whether it is a minor concern or a sign of a more serious issue, timely care is important. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Newburg and Taylorsville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Diagnosis and Management of Gout

Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints and leads to sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Flare-ups of gout often take place in the big toe. They can make walking difficult and may occur repeatedly, causing damage to joints in the feet and ankles, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose gout by examining the affected area and using imaging or lab tests to rule out other problems, like fractures or other types of arthritis. Gout in the feet can lead to long-term joint damage, tissue changes and deformities. Management of gout includes medication to reduce inflammation and guidance on preventing further flare-ups. A podiatrist can also assess footwear and biomechanics to reduce pressure on affected joints and help preserve foot function.  If you have frequent toe or ankle pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for management of this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Newburg and Taylorsville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Everything You Need to Know About Gout

When Children Experience Forefoot and Midfoot Problems

Foot pain is not just an adult issue. Children can develop a range of conditions in the forefoot and midfoot that affect how they move and play. Pain in this part of the foot can stem from injuries, repeated strain, or even an underlying infection. Some common concerns include ingrown toenails, early bunion formation, or issues involving the small bones beneath the big toe joint. Structural changes, like an overlapping fifth toe present from birth, can also lead to discomfort or difficulty with shoes. Children who are active in sports may develop overuse injuries or even fractures that affect the middle or front portion of the foot. A podiatrist will assess the child’s foot shape, movement, and symptoms to identify the source of the problem. Treatment may involve footwear adjustments, orthotics, or activity modification. If your child shows signs of foot pain or changes in walking, it is suggested you schedule a podiatry visit for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

  • Make sure their shoes fit properly
  • Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
  • Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
  • Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
  • Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
  • Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
  • Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
  • Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Newburg and Taylorsville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Care for Your Child's Feet

Connect With Us

scroll to top