Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Find out more about tarsal tunnel syndrome and how Torrance Pain Institute can help you manage your pain, improve your quality of life, and get back to doing the things you enjoy.

What is tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the ankle is compressed as it passes through a tunnel composed by nerves and ligaments. It causes numbness, pain, or a tingling sensation in the foot.

What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a result of compression of the tibial nerve such as:

  • Flat feet – flattened feet can produce strain and compression on the tibial nerve
  • Foot injury – may cause inflammation in the tunnel which results in nerve compression
  • Systematic diseases – diabetes and arthritis cause swelling that compresses the nerves
  • Varicose veins – occupy space in the tunnel that can compress the nerves

What are the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Tingling, burning or a sensation similar to an electrical shock
  • Numbness
  • Pain, including shooting pain

What is the treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome?

A tibial nerve block can be used to treat chronic pain caused by tarsal tunnel sydrome. The doctor injects a local anesthetic to the nerves in the ankle. Schedule a consultation with our pain management doctor to learn more about tibial nerve block in Torrance.