Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through a narrow passageway called the tarsal tunnel. This compression can result from various causes, including injury, inflammation, or structural abnormalities like flat feet. Symptoms often include pain, tingling, burning sensations, or numbness in the foot and ankle, which may worsen with activity. Diagnosing tarsal tunnel syndrome typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and tests such as nerve conduction studies or imaging to evaluate nerve function and detect any underlying issues. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide timely treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can be caused by various factors, including plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the ligament that supports the arch becomes inflamed, leading to sharp pain at the heel. Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel and can cause discomfort when walking. Achilles tendonitis affects the tendon at the back of the heel, leading to pain and stiffness. To relieve heel pain, it is important to rest the affected foot and wear supportive footwear with good arch support. Stretching exercises and using orthotic insoles can also help ease pressure on the heel. In severe cases, certain exercises, medical treatment, or even surgery may be necessary for long-term relief. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Women are more likely to suffer from foot pain throughout their lives due to a combination of footwear choices, body composition, and biomechanical differences. Wearing high heels, narrow-toed shoes, and unsupportive flats contribute to bunions, hammertoes, and chronic foot strain. Prolonged use of these styles alters foot structure over time, leading to pain that persists even when switching to better shoes. Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy and menopause, can further weaken ligaments, increasing the risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis and fallen arches. Women’s wider hips create a greater Q-angle, affecting foot alignment and increasing stress on the arches and ankles. These factors combined make foot pain a persistent issue. If you have persistent foot pain, regardless of your gender, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to address underlying issues and obtain relief options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.