Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

 Treating a Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome at KAHC

 What is Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS)?

Also known as posterior tibial neuralgia, it is a compression neuropathy and a painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. This tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus.

What symptoms accompany a TTS?

1.     Numbness in the foot radiating to the big toe and the first three toes

2.     Pain, burning, electrical sensations, and tingling at the base of the foot / heel.

3.     The entire foot can be affected as different parts of the tibial nerve can become affected

4.     Ankle pain

5.     Possibilities of Inflammation or swelling. As the flexor retinaculum has a limited ability to stretch, increased pressure may eventually cause compression on the nerve within the tunnel causing the nerves to respond with altered sensations like tingling and numbness.

6.     Fluid could collect in the foot while standing or walking making the condition worse.

How do we treat Tarsal tunnel syndrome [TTS] at the Korean Acupuncture and Herb Clinic?

First: We stimulate the nerve, by using Electro-Acupuncture treatment near the entrapped area and the nerve innervation area as well.

Second: Friction massage is applied to take apart the nerve and ligament or tendon

Third: Icepacks are placed to prevent inflammation from the separation.