Patients sometimes ask our experienced podiatrist in Alexandria, VA, whether their foot pain or ankle pain is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. The answer is a mixture of "yes" and "no." Carpal tunnel syndrome only occurs in the wrist, but it is possible for you to suffer a very similar ailment in your ankle called tarsal tunnel syndrome. Keep reading to learn more!
Learn the Difference Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome & Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome from Our Podiatrist in Alexandria, VA
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome gets its name from a place in your ankle called the "tarsal tunnel." This tunnel houses a combination of arteries, veins, tendons, and nerves that run from your foot up your leg. One nerve in particular is called the posterior tibial nerve. Sometimes, this nerve gets squeezed or compressed, and the result is tarsal tunnel syndrome.
What Are the Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
According to our Alexandria podiatrist, the compression of the posterior tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel can result in the following symptoms…
- Tingling or burning feeling, similar to an electric shock
- Shooting Pain
- Numbness
How Is Tarsal Tunnel Different from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
In this case, the difference between these two syndromes lies mainly in the name. The "tarsal tunnel" is the name of the tunnel in your ankle, while the "carpal tunnel" is the name of a tunnel in your wrist. Beyond the difference in name, however, the causes and symptoms of both syndromes can be very similar.
What Is the Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Our podiatrist in Alexandria, VA, explains that treatment for tarsal tunnel can vary from patient to patient, depending on the severity of each person's condition. Conservative treatments may include resting your foot and ankle, applying ice, and taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory like Ibuprofen. In moderate cases, our Alexandria podiatrist sometimes recommends physical therapy, immobilization of the foot and ankle with a cast, or orthotic shoe inserts. In severe cases, injection therapy or surgery may be considered, but these options are always a last resort.
To Learn More About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, Call Our Experienced Podiatrist in Alexandria, VA!
If you believe you are suffering from tarsal tunnel syndrome, our experienced podiatrist in Alexandria, VA, can help you reduce or eliminate your pain and restore your mobility. Call The Podiatry Center for an appointment today!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Alexandria, VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
