Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves that run through a narrow passage in the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This syndrome can cause pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in the foot and ankle, making it difficult for patients to perform daily activities. At The Nerve Institute, led by nerve reconstruction specialist Dr. Mytien Goldberg, our team has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating tarsal tunnel in Los Angeles. We provide personalized treatment plans to help our patients regain optimal function.
Tarsal Tunnel
Los Angeles
The Tibial Nerve: Understanding the Nerve Anatomy
The tibial nerve is a major peripheral nerve that arises from the sciatic nerve in the thigh and travels down the leg to the foot. It is responsible for providing sensation to the sole of the foot and controlling the movement of some of the muscles in the foot and ankle. The tibial nerve passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passage formed by the ankle bones and surrounding tissues. Any compression or damage to the nerve, or its two branches, the lateral or medial plantar nerve, can result in tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Pain in the ankle or foot that may radiate to the calf
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the sole of the foot, toes, or heel
- Burning or electric shock-like sensations in the foot
- Weakness in the muscles of the foot and ankle
- Swelling and inflammation in the affected area
- Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
- Worsening symptoms during physical activity or at night
- Sensitivity to touch in the affected area
- Reduced sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures in the foot
To learn more about tarsal tunnel in Los Angeles, contact our office for an appointment.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial nerve or one of its branches, the medial or lateral plantar nerve, becomes compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel in the ankle. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, tingling sensations, and weakness in the foot and ankle. The condition may be caused by injury, overuse, arthritis, or structural abnormalities in the foot or ankle. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the progression of symptoms and the development of further complications.
Possible Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:
- Ankle injuries, such as a sprain or fracture
- Flat feet or fallen arches
- Overpronation or underpronation of the foot
- Varicose veins or swelling in the foot
- Abnormalities in foot structure, such as a bone spur or cyst
- Tumors or growths in the tarsal tunnel
- Nerve damage from diabetes or other systemic conditions
- Inflammation of the tendons or soft tissues in the foot
- Repetitive use or overuse of the foot and ankle
- Arthritis or other degenerative joint conditions in the ankle or foot
To see how you can benefit from tarsal tunnel in Los Angeles, contact our office today.
What Happens When the Tibial Nerve is Damaged
Damage to the tibial nerve or its branches can cause a range of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Tarsal tunnel syndrome, a common form of tibial nerve compression, can result in pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and decreased sensation in the foot and ankle. More severe injuries, such as nerve lacerations or crush injuries, can lead to permanent nerve damage and loss of function in the affected area. In cases of nerve damage, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary to prevent further complications.
Tarsal Tunnel Release: Surgical Intervention
Tarsal tunnel release is performed to relieve the compression of the tibial nerve or its branches within the tarsal tunnel. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the ankle or foot and carefully separates the surrounding tissues to access the tarsal tunnel. The surgeon releases the pressure on the nerve by cutting or removing any structures causing the compression, such as scar tissue, bony growths, or inflamed tendons, thus releasing the pinched or compressed nerve.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Goldberg
The Nerve Institute, led by Dr. Mytien Goldberg, is dedicated to providing patients with the highest level of care for nerve injuries and chronic nerve pain. If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral nerve conditions or tarsal tunnel in Los Angeles, schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg. With her extensive experience in nerve reconstruction and microsurgery, she can provide a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan to help you regain function. If you are experiencing some other sort of leg pain such as leg pain after orthopedic surgery or peroneal nerve compression, she also has a treatment for you. No matter what nerve pain you are experiencing, contact us to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
