Summary about Disease
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inside of the ankle next to the ankle bones. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot and ankle.
Symptoms
Pain: Burning, shooting, or aching pain in the foot, especially on the bottom of the foot and/or inside the ankle.
Numbness: Tingling or numbness in the toes, heel, arch, or sole of the foot.
Tingling: A pins-and-needles sensation.
Electrical sensations: Shooting pains that feel like electric shocks.
Pain that worsens with activity: Symptoms may be aggravated by standing, walking, or exercise.
Night pain: Pain can be worse at night.
Sometimes symptoms extend up the leg.
Causes
Flat feet: Flat feet can stretch the tibial nerve.
Ankle injuries: Sprains, fractures, or dislocations can cause inflammation and nerve compression.
Space-occupying lesions: Ganglion cysts, tumors, or swollen varicose veins within the tarsal tunnel can compress the nerve.
Inflammatory conditions: Arthritis or other inflammatory conditions can cause swelling in the tarsal tunnel.
Systemic diseases: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, and other conditions can damage nerves.
Obesity: Excess weight can increase pressure on the tarsal tunnel.
Improper footwear: Shoes that lack proper support can contribute.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroid injections: Injections into the tarsal tunnel to reduce inflammation around the nerve.
Pain relievers: Such as acetaminophen for pain management.
Neuropathic pain medications: Gabapentin or pregabalin may be prescribed to manage nerve pain.
Topical medications: such as creams that contain capsaicin, lidocaine or other topical pain relievers.
Is Communicable
No, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Proper footwear: Wear supportive shoes with good arch support.
Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter orthotics to correct foot biomechanics.
Weight management: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the foot and ankle.
Activity modification: Avoid activities that aggravate symptoms.
Stretching and strengthening exercises: Exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the foot and ankle.
Avoid prolonged standing or walking: Take breaks to rest and elevate your feet.
Control underlying conditions: Manage diabetes, arthritis, or other conditions that contribute to nerve damage.
How long does an outbreak last?
There is no "outbreak" associated with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, as it is not an infectious disease. The duration of symptoms varies greatly depending on the cause and severity of the nerve compression, and whether treatment is sought. Symptoms can be chronic and persistent if left untreated.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical examination: The doctor will examine the foot and ankle, checking for tenderness and assessing reflexes, muscle strength, and sensation.
Tinel's sign: Tapping over the tibial nerve may reproduce pain or tingling.
Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG): These tests measure the electrical activity of the nerve and muscles to identify nerve damage.
MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging may be used to identify space-occupying lesions or other abnormalities.
X-rays: X-rays can rule out fractures or arthritis.
Diagnostic injection: Injecting a local anesthetic into the tarsal tunnel may temporarily relieve symptoms, confirming the diagnosis.
Timeline of Symptoms
9. Timeline of symptoms The timeline of symptoms varies greatly, but it typically progresses as follows:
Early stages: Mild, intermittent pain, numbness, or tingling, often occurring after prolonged standing or walking.
Intermediate stages: Symptoms become more frequent and intense, occurring with less activity and potentially at rest. Night pain may develop.
Advanced stages: Constant pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected foot, significantly limiting daily activities. Muscle atrophy may occur if the nerve compression is severe and prolonged.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term nerve damage.
Non-surgical treatments are often effective, but surgery may be necessary if conservative measures fail.
Underlying conditions, such as diabetes or flat feet, should be addressed to improve outcomes.
Post-operative rehabilitation is important for recovery after surgery.
The prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment, but some individuals may experience chronic pain or residual numbness.
Consult a qualified healthcare professional such as a podiatrist, orthopedist or neurologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment options.