Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that is caused by compression of the tibial nerve or its branches.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is analogous to carpal tunnel syndrome of the wrist.

The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that lies on the inside of the ankle.

The tunnel is covered with a thick ligament called the flexor retinaculum.

Structures within the tarsal tunnel include:
-Arteries
-Veins
-Tendons
-Nerves

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a compression on the posterior tibial nerve.
This syndrome produces symptoms anywhere along the path of the nerve.

Possible symptoms include:

-Tingling
-Burning
-Numbness
-Shooting pain
-Paresthesias

Contribute Factors to Tarsal Tunnel:
-Soft tissue masses:
Lipomas-is a benign tumor composed of fatty tissue
-Tendon Sheath Ganglia:
Neoplasms- is an abnormal mass of tissue as a result abnormal proliferation of cells
-Nerve tumors
-Varicose Veins

Work up:

Tinel sign- Percussion of a nerve with radiation of pain along the course of the nerve.

The doctor may order any of the following tests to help with the diagnosis:
-Electromyography (EMG) - A technique for evaluating and recording the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles
-Nerve conduction velocity (NCV)
-Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)- In cases of suspected soft-tissue masses and other space-occupying lesions
-Ultrasonography
-Radiography

Conservative Treatment:

-Rest
-Ice
-Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs-to help reduce pain and inflammation
-Immobilization- Restricting movement of the foot by wearing a cast or cam boot
-Physical therapy
-Injection therapy
-Orthotic devices. To control any abnormal bio mechanics of the foot








-Surgical Therapy

Tarsal tunnel release surgical intervention may be needed if conservative therapy fails to alleviate pain and symptoms. This procedure is used to decrease pressure on the posterior tibial nerve. Any space occupying lesions may also be excised.
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Anodyne Therapy

Diabetic neuropathies are neuropathic disorders that are associated with diabetes mellitus. These conditions are thought to result from diabetic microvascular injury involving small blood vessels that supply nerves

Neuropathy can present itself in a number of different ways including; numbness, pain, loss of feeling, weak muscles.

These symptoms can lead to secondary problems including difficulty with walking, balance and activities of daily living.


Anodyne Therapy is a treatment specifically for peripheral neuropathy. It works by relieving pain and/or increasing circulation in the area where the patient is experiencing pain.


The only contraindications are for pregnancy and active malignancy, according to the company.

How it works

The Anodyne Therapy System uses monochromatic infrared energy (MIRE) to release nitric oxide from the patient’s red blood cells.

Anodyne Therapy utilizes the healing power of infrared light to stimulate increased nerve function and blood flow to decrease pain and improve feeling

This form of treatment is usually given in addition to physical therapy

Anodyne Therapy is completely painless

The program usually involves 10-24 therapy sessions and may include:

Stretching and strengthening exercises

Dynamic and static balance exercises

Massage and the use of other therapeutic modalities for pain

Sensory integrative techniques

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Tailor's Bunion

Tailor's bunion is as an acquired lesion that causes chronic pain and swelling over the outer aspect of the distal foot. It is also known as a bunionette and is characterized by a painful prominence on the outer aspect of the foot in the area of the fifth metatarsal head.

These types of lesions were often seen on tailors with a cross-legged sitting posture. The posture resulted in pressure being placed on the lateral side of the foot.

Causes

Extrinsic causes - Commonly chronic

• Tailors' posture
• Footwear

Intrinsic causes

Structural Abnormalities

• Lateral bowing of the metatarsal shaft
• Enlargement of the metatarsal head
• Congenital splayfoot

Presentation

• Symptoms - Painful keratoses on the outer, bottom, or top aspect of the metatarsal head.

Imaging Studies

• Weight-bearing x rays of both feet
• Vascular studies are important with patients who have questionable circulation

Treatment

Conservative

• Padding
• Shoe modification
• Orthotic devices
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroid injections

Surgical Treatment

• Can be treated with simple removal of osseous bump when there is no evidence of anglular deformity
• With an angular deformity or a deviation in the bone is present an osteotomy (cut in the bone) is made and held together with a screw. The level of bone cut varies with the level of the deformity.

Possible Complications

• Malunion- Incomplete union or union in a faulty position
• Nonunion- A nonunion occurs when a broken bone does not heal
• Nerve Injury
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Symptomatic hardware
• Infection
• Recurrence

Diabetic Education

General Education for Diabetics:

Avoid any at home care for nails and calluses

Avoid constrictive bandages

Avoid open toed or opened back shoes

Be careful with adhesives and tape on the diabetic insensate foot

Buy shoes at the end of the day when the feet are the largest

Check the bath temperature before submerging the feet

Diabetics with impaired vision need someone to inspect there feet daily

Do not use chemical substances for removing corns or calluses

Dry the feet and between the toes thoroughly after showers

Inspect the feet and toes daily for any lesions

Inspect the shoes for objects before placing on feet

Never walk barefooted

Professional nail care at a podiatry office with regular visits

Protect the feet from sunburn

The use of a high toe box to accommodate hammertoes

The use of an insert to accommodate any lesions

The use of shoes with a wide toe box with extra depth

The use of water based lotion daily without moistening between the toes

Wear a shoe with an appropriate fit to avoid friction which can cause blisters