The narrow space in the inner foot beside the ankle bones is known as the tarsal tunnel. A ligament, flexor retinaculum, covers the tunnel as it extends posteriorly from the medial malleolus. This ligament protects the nerves, veins, arteries, and tendons within the tarsal tunnel. The tibial nerve, one of the structures in the tunnel, is the focus of a condition called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
The compression of the tibial nerve is known as Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome or tibial nerve dysfunction. This condition produces symptoms along the path of the tibial nerve as it passes by way of the tarsal tunnel. This compression neuropathy is likely to be underdiagnosed. In some cases, it mimics plantar fasciitis.
Tibial nerve dysfunction causes chronic ankle and foot pain. It can limit your mobility and make it difficult to do physical activity. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can prevent you from enjoying your hobbies or performing your daily activities. Fortunately, chiropractic therapy can help you find relief from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
This disorder is a result of the compression of the tibial nerve in a confined space– the tarsal tunnel. Patients suffering from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome are likely to experience the following signs:
- Numbness
- Shooting pain
- Burning sensation
You can feel the symptoms at the bottom of your foot. They may also occur within your ankle. In some patients, a symptom may occur in one spot. However, it may extend to the arch, toes, heel, and calf in some people. The symptoms may occur suddenly as a result of a trauma, or may gradually progress due to overuse.
Consequently, prolonged exercising, standing, running, and/or walking exert weight on the affected foot and can worsen the condition. Some patients may feel more pain at night. Moving the leg or hanging it over the edge of the bed can provide some relief. Early treatment of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can prevent the progression of the disorder and may prevent permanent nerve damage.
Once you notice the symptoms, visit a chiropractic clinic. The symptoms may occur in combination with the symptoms of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and plantar fasciitis. However, it is likely that these two disorders can cause a traction injury to the posterior tibial nerve. In such a situation, proper evaluation is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment.
In asymptomatic cases of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, some clinical signs may be present. Calluses are found underneath the patients’ toes. Also, high arches and toes with a claw-like appearance are noticeable.
Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Any situation that results in the compression of the posterior tibial nerve can cause Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Let’s walk through the causes of this nerve disorder.
- Flat footedness is one of the risk factors of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. In people with flat feet, the heel tilts outward as a result of the flattened arches and can lead to the compression of the tibial nerve
- Inflammation of any tissue around the tarsal tunnel can compress the tibial nerve. An ankle sprain may result in swelling near or within the tarsal tunnel, compressing the tibial nerve
- The compression of the tibial nerve may be due to the presence of abnormal structures in the tarsal tunnel. An arthritic bone spur, a varicose vein, a swollen tendon, or a ganglion cyst may occupy the space within the tunnel.
- Swelling caused by systemic health conditions like arthritis can compress the nerve. Also, alcoholism can cause neuropathy.
Restrictive joints and overuse of the foot due to high levels of activity are also likely to cause Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. It appears that more females suffer from this nerve disorder than males. It is possible that the transition from high heels to flat footwear during the weekend may be the cause. Unfortunately, many women adopted this habit.
One interesting find of this nerve disorder is the spinal misalignment in patients suffering from it. A chiropractic physician can help improve mobility and relieve pain resulting from posterior tibial nerve dysfunction. The patients may just need a spinal adjustment.
Diagnosing Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
A thorough examination of the foot and ankle is necessary for an accurate diagnosis of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. During the assessment, a chiropractic physician will check to see if there is a loss of feeling in the affected body part. The health professional will try to reproduce the symptoms by tapping the nerve.
The physician will also check for the presence of a small mass in the area. If present, advanced imaging studies are necessary, especially if the initial therapy doesn’t minimize the symptoms of the condition. Electromyography and nerve conduction velocity may be required if the nerve disorder doesn’t improve with non-surgical therapy.
Chiropractic Therapy for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The compression of the tibial nerve weakens the intrinsic muscles of the foot. Chiropractic therapy helps to restore the neurological function of the muscles, tendons, and fascia. A chiropractic physician adjusts the bones of the foot to relieve the pressure on the posterior tibial nerve. This approach ensures rapid recovery.
Another approach of chiropractic therapy is restoring nerve function through spinal adjustment. The spinal cord plays a crucial role in the nervous system’s coordination of the body. Unfortunately, spinal misalignment results in nerve dysfunction and, consequently, chronic pain. Proper alignment of the spine can ease the symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
A chiropractor can conduct spinal adjustments to restore spinal alignment. When achieved, it minimizes the pain associated with Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, and the joints of the foot can function well once again. Besides, you will experience increased mobility all over. Once you notice the symptoms of posterior tibial nerve dysfunction, contact a chiropractic doctor.
Various treatment options are used for the treatment of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. An application of an ice pack on the affected part of the foot for 20 minutes at intervals of 40 minutes can help ease the pain. Also, opt for supportive shoes to prevent excessive flattening of the arches. Wearing high heels isn’t advisable.
Conclusion
Chiropractic therapy is an effective treatment option for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. If you are suffering from tibial nerve compression, visit a chiropractic center to initiate treatment. Your mobility will improve, and you will be able to get back to your favorite activities.