Do you experience burning, tingling, or numbness along the inside of your ankle or the bottom of your foot? Do these symptoms worsen after standing or walking for long periods? You may be experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, commonly described as a pinched nerve in the ankle.
At Rose Physical Therapy, with clinics in Navy Yard, Friendship Heights, and Farragut North in Washington, DC, physical therapists provide personalized care to reduce nerve irritation, improve foot and ankle mechanics, and help you return to comfortable movement.
Understanding Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passage on the inside of the ankle formed by bone and connective tissue.
This nerve provides sensation to the bottom of the foot and helps control some of the muscles in the foot. When the nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can produce nerve-related symptoms similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, but in the foot and ankle.
Pressure within the tunnel may result from swelling, injury, or structural changes in the foot and ankle.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Several conditions can increase pressure on the posterior tibial nerve.
Flat Feet or Fallen Arches
Excessive inward rolling of the foot can place strain on the structures around the tarsal tunnel.
Ankle Injuries
Sprains or trauma may lead to swelling or scar tissue that compresses the nerve.
Repetitive Stress
Prolonged standing, walking, or running may increase pressure around the nerve.
Medical Conditions
Conditions such as arthritis or diabetes may contribute to nerve irritation.
Structural Changes
Cysts, varicose veins, or bone spurs near the ankle may narrow the tunnel.
Improper Footwear
Shoes that lack support may increase stress on the foot and ankle.
Signs and Symptoms of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen with activity.
Common signs include:
• Burning or tingling in the sole of the foot
• Numbness along the inside of the ankle or arch
• Pain that worsens with walking or standing
• Electric or shooting sensations in the foot
• Weakness in the foot muscles
• Symptoms that worsen at the end of the day and improve with rest
Unlike some other foot conditions, nerve-related symptoms such as tingling or numbness are common.
How Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Is Evaluated
At Rose Physical Therapy, evaluation focuses on identifying nerve compression and the mechanical factors contributing to symptoms.
Your physical therapist may perform:
• Review of symptoms, activity levels, and footwear habits
• Palpation of the inside of the ankle where the nerve travels
• Nerve provocation tests such as Tinel’s sign at the ankle
• Strength and flexibility testing of the foot and ankle
• Assessment of foot posture and arch mechanics
• Gait analysis to evaluate walking patterns
This evaluation helps determine the best treatment approach.
Physical Therapy for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment focuses on reducing pressure on the nerve and improving the mechanics of the foot and ankle.
At Rose Physical Therapy, rehabilitation programs are tailored to each patient’s symptoms and lifestyle.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment may improve mobility and reduce tension in surrounding tissues.
Nerve Mobility Techniques
Specific exercises may help the posterior tibial nerve move more freely.
Foot and Arch Strengthening
Exercises help support the arch and improve foot stability.
Flexibility Exercises
Stretching the calf and surrounding muscles may reduce tension on the foot and ankle.
Movement and Gait Training
Therapists may help improve walking mechanics to reduce nerve compression.
Supportive Strategies
Taping, orthotics, or footwear recommendations may help reduce stress on the tarsal tunnel.
Home Exercise Program
Patients receive customized exercises to support recovery outside the clinic.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Washington, DC
Nerve pain in the foot or ankle can make standing and walking uncomfortable. With the right treatment approach, many individuals can improve symptoms and restore normal movement.
At Rose Physical Therapy, individualized care focuses on reducing nerve irritation and improving foot function.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a pinched nerve in the ankle or tarsal tunnel syndrome, schedule an evaluation at one of the Washington, DC clinic locations:
Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard
Rose Physical Therapy provides comprehensive care designed to help patients recover from tarsal tunnel syndrome and return to daily activities with less pain and improved mobility.