If you are feeling sharp, radiating, stabbing pains that may start in the heel but usually involves the ankle, you may have a condition called Tarsal Tunnel. Just like its counterpart in the wrist Carpal Tunnel, this is a condition in which the nerves become entrapped in the fibrous tissue surrounding the area, when the nerve becomes compressed or squeezed a burning sensation may occur. Typically the nerve that runs along the inside of the ankle, called the Posterior Tibial Nerve, becomes entrapped in the Laciniate ligament in the ankle. The pain occurs with movement in the ankle and can be very debilitating. There is also another condition that presents similarly, which occurs when a simple heel problem goes untreated for a long time, the problem can escalate and the medial plantar nerve becomes embedded in the plantar fascia, in turn causing the neural pain described above. Of course there are systemic conditions that may cause this problem but the two mentioned are the most common seen today. Treatment is dependent on the severity of the problem, immobilization, oral and topical anti-inflammatories, functional orthotics, series of anesthetic blocks, Laser therapy and of course surgery.
Visit Eastern Shore Foot Center's website for more information about foot conditions or to request an appointment
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