Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
The tarsal tunnel is actually a small opening in the heel area. This gap is closed by a connective tissue or ligament called the flexor retinaculum.
Apart from connecting bone to bone, this ligament also acts as a protector of the underlying structures, namely arteries, veins, and nerves.
For some reason, the nerves in this ligament can experience compression and then result in various disorders. This condition is called tarsal tunnel syndrome. This disorder is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome which occurs in the wrist.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
Symptoms that can be experienced in tarsal tunnel syndrome include:
- pins and needles
- A feeling of burning or electric shock
- Baal
- Nyeri
These symptoms can be localized to a point on the heel, but can also spread to the same side of the foot. These complaints occur suddenly and get worse with excessive use of the feet, for example standing for a long time, lifting weights or aerobics.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Reason
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs due to compression or compression of the nerves in the heel area. Some conditions that can cause nerve compression are:
- Flat feet. The flat shape of the feet will cause the heel area to tend to curve outwards so that it will press on the nerves in that area.
- There is enlargement of the veins, ganglion cysts, swelling of the tendons and bony protrusions which will then press on the innervation area of the heel
- Trauma causing injury to the heel joint and inflammation of the tarsal tunnel
- Swelling of the joints due to arthritis or arthritis and diabetes.
Diagnosis
To make a diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome, the doctor will generally do a physical examination of the feet directly. This examination aims to evaluate whether there is a decrease in touch sensation in the heel area. Apart from that, it is also to find out whether there is a mass that can press on the nerves.
If needed, the doctor will also carry out supporting examinations in the form of electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) to assess the condition and function of the nerves in the heel area.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Treatment of tarsal tunnel syndrome can be done by two methods, namely:
-
non-operative
For mild cases, tarsal tunnel syndrome can generally be treated without surgery. Some things that can be done to help recovery are:
- Rest your feet
- Apply cold compress for 20 minutes. Remove the compress and wait at least 40 minutes before repeating the compress
- The use of anti-pain drugs, both topical, drinking or injected directly into the joint
- Physiotherapy to help reduce pain and assist the recovery process
- The use of special shoes that can help reduce pressure on the joints
- Use of special braces
-
Operation
In cases where tarsal tunnel syndrome is severe and can no longer be relieved by non-operative methods, surgery may be an option. The doctor will conduct a thorough examination before determining the appropriate and appropriate type of surgery to deal with complaints.
Complications
If not treated properly, tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause permanent damage to the heel nerves.
Prevention
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be prevented by wearing the right shoes, warming up before exercising and also minimizing the risk of diseases that can invite complications of arthritis.
In this case, changes to a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise are absolutely necessary as a preventive measure.