Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve on the inside of the ankle gets squeezed, causing pain and other symptoms. This nerve runs through a small space near the ankle bone, called the tarsal tunnel, which is covered by a thick band of tissue. When something takes up extra space in this area, like swelling from an ankle injury, a cyst, or a bone bump, it can put pressure on the nerve. Flat feet can also contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome by tilting the heel outward, adding strain to the nerve. People with this condition may feel tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that starts near the ankle and spreads to the foot or toes. Symptoms often get worse with walking, standing for long periods, or exercising. It is important to get checked early to avoid long-term nerve damage. A podiatrist can diagnose the problem and recommend treatment, which may include special shoe inserts, braces, or, if necessary, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve. If you have pain on the inner side of the ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.