What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome? What are the causes? What are the signs and symptoms? How to treat it? How can homeopathy help you? All of this answered, in this post and of course our doctors always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
The tarsal tunnel is situated inside the ankle next to the ankle bones. It is a narrow space.
It is covered with a thick ligament named flexor retinaculum that protects internal structures like the arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves inside the tunnel.
The posterior tibial nerve gets affected and an unusual form of peripheral neuropathy can be caused.
The tibial nerve controls movement and sensation to the calf and foot muscles.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is dysfunction of the posterior tibial nerve that leads to the symptoms anywhere along the path of the nerve running from the inside of the ankle into the foot.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is similar to another condition which happens in the wrist carpal tunnel syndrome.
Who are affected with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur in both genders.
All age group can be affected. (Except Infant).
Individuals of any race can be affected.
What are the causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
• Flat feet is at risk because the outward tilting of the heel causing strain and compression on the nerve.
• Other conditions like Varicose vein, ganglion cyst, swollen tendon, and arthritic bone spur can compress the nerve.
• An injury may produce inflammation and swelling in or near the tunnel, causing in compression of the nerve.
• Systemic diseases such as diabetes or arthritis can cause swelling which causes compressing the nerve.
What are the symptoms and signs of Tarsal Tunnel syndrome?
• Pain and tingling in ankles and occasionally on the toes
• Swelling of feet
• Painful, burning, tingling, or numb sensations in the lower legs.
• Pain worsens and spreads after standing for long periods; pain is worse with activity and is relieved by rest.
• Hot and cold sensations in the foot
• “Pins and needles” sensation of feet.
• Tinel’s sign. It is a tingling electric shock sensation that occurs when you tap over an affected nerve. The pain may radiate to inner thigh as well.
What is the investigation of Tarsal Tunnel syndrome?
• Patients’ pain history.
• X-ray
• MRI
• Ultrasound, nerve biopsy or nerve conduction test
• Nerve conduction study
• Diagnosing by a tap on the inside of ankle along the course of the posterior tibial nerve.
What is the complication of Tarsal Tunnel syndrome?
• Deformity of the foot
• Loss of movement esp in Toes (partial or complete)
• Loss of Sensation in foot or toes (partial or complete)
What Homeopathy Medicines are recommended in Tarsal Tunnel syndrome?
Homeopathic drugs like Ruta, Rhus Tox, and Arnica Montana considered beneficial in reducing swelling and pain around the ankle joint.
What diet management is recommended for tarsal tunnel syndrome?
• Physical therapy exercises may help some people maintain muscle strength.
• Keeping the joint elevated. Tight bandage also prevents swelling and helps in supporting the ankle joint up to an extent.
• Turmeric is considered to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. A teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of milk can be helpful.
• Rest is important to reduce ankle pain.
• Stretching exercises
• Strengthening exercises
For more information, you can visit Wikipedia and HealthLine.
