Tarsal tunnel trouble!
Did you know Chiropractors also treat feet!? Let’s have a look at a very painful foot condition called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) and how your Chiropractor can help!
What is Tarsal tunnel syndrome?
You may have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome which affects the wrists and hands, well, tarsal tunnel syndrome affects the ankles and feet!
TTS is a very common foot complaint. The pain and discomfort associated with this condition is related to pressure or compression of the tibial nerve that runs through the tarsal tunnel. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway found on the outside of the ankle and typically pain will be felt in the ankle, foot and heel.
The pain can be so crippling that it can affect all aspects of your daily life. The good news is with the help of your Chiropractor the inflammation can be reduced and normal foot function restored.
What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome?
TTS occurs when damage occurs to the tibial nerve. Causes of tibial nerve damage can include:
- Injury – such as an ankle sprain or fracture
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Irregular growth such as bone spurs and cysts
- Systemic conditions such as thyroid conditions, arthritis, or diabetes.
For many people TTS is part of an overuse injury, More that 2 out of 5 people with this condition have a history of ankle injuries.
Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome
As previously discussed pain is usually felt on the inside of the ankle or the bottom of the feet, however, you may also experience:
- Numbness
- Tingling or “pins and needles”
- Weakness
- Burning sensations
Symptoms often get worse during or after physical activity.
How can your Chiropractor help?
When the spine is askew or is causing pain, it affects the way you walk causing pain in the soft tissues and bones leading to compression in areas that shouldn’t have it.
When the spine is aligned properly, all of the nerves that travel through the spine are able to function properly.
Chiropractic treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome can include many different techniques to deliver relief to the area and can include:
- Correcting any underlying misalignments in the spine and central nervous system.
- Focusing on surrounding muscles and tendons, building strength to reduce the pressure on the ankles and feet.
- Using adjustments to treat weak tissues caused by the tibial nerve compression.
- Using adjustments to promote neurological function.
A final note….
You don’t have to feel unsteady on your own feet. Chiropractic treatment is a realistic option for treating tarsal tunnel syndrome. Treat TTS pain naturally by addressing the underlying issues giving pain relief without the need to take pain killers.
If you would like some further information or to speak to a member of our team please call us on: Hitchin 01462 420077 or Luton 01582 579687, alternatively e-mail us at: hitchin@healesclinics.com or luton@healesclinics.com