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Diabetic Foot Care, Wounds & Circulation

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, Nerve Entrapment, Burning Feet & Numbness

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Diabetic Foot Care, Wounds & Circulation

Understanding tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet and your options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome happens when the tibial nerve gets squeezed as it passes along the inner ankle. It works a bit like carpal tunnel in the wrist. The pressure can make the nerve send odd signals to the foot.

It often shows up in people with flat feet, past ankle injuries, or swelling around the ankle. Most people notice burning, tingling, or numbness in the sole. Getting checked early can protect the nerve from lasting irritation.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, Nerve Entrapment, Burning Feet & Numbness care

Symptoms

Signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Burning or tingling in the sole, heel, or toes

  • 02

    Numbness that may spread along the inner ankle

  • 03

    Shooting or electric pain that often gets worse at night

  • 04

    Symptoms that flare after long standing or walking

Why it happens

What can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet.

  • 01

    Flat feet that stretch the nerve

  • 02

    Past ankle sprains or fractures

  • 03

    Swelling or a cyst near the ankle

  • 04

    Tight or ill-fitting shoes

Care groupDiabetic Foot Care, Wounds & Circulation

Diagnosis and care

How we treat tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We ask about your symptoms and gently tap along the nerve to see if it causes tingling. We also look at your foot shape and how you walk. X-rays, ultrasound, or an MRI referral can check for bone problems, cysts, or other growths. In some cases we may suggest nerve testing or blood tests to look for other causes of numbness.

Step 2 · Treatment

Rest and changes in activity can calm the nerve. Supportive shoes and custom orthotics may ease the strain from flat feet. Bracing, taping, or a short time in a boot can limit motion around the ankle. Some people benefit from injections to reduce swelling or from physical therapy to improve movement and strength.

Surgery may be talked about if the nerve stays pinched and other care has not helped. The goal is to release the tight tissue or remove whatever is pressing on the nerve.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Mild cases may improve over several weeks to a few months with care. If surgery is needed, recovery can take a few months, and results vary.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if burning or numbness lasts more than a couple of weeks. Come in sooner if you feel weakness, if pain wakes you at night, or if you have diabetes.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Diabetic Foot Care, Wounds & Circulation.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Is burning in my feet always from the tarsal tunnel?

No. Nerve pain in the feet can also come from diabetes, back problems, or other causes. An exam helps sort out which one it is.

Can shoes make tarsal tunnel worse?

Yes, tight shoes or shoes with little support can add pressure near the ankle. Better fit and support often help.

Get help with tarsal tunnel syndrome and nerve pain in the feet.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, Nerve Entrapment, Burning Feet & Numbness care at 15 clinics.

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