High School Athlete returns from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

High School Athlete returns from Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

foot-swelling.jpgHigh school runner Nikki Thiede has returned from a history of injuries to compete in the NCAA Division II Regional. Excellent foot health has not always been the case for Thiede, who in the past has suffered stress fractures and torn ligaments in one of her ankles. The summer before her senior year, Thiede developed tarsal tunnel syndrome in her ankle and had to receive a series of shots. Despite her debilitating concerns, however, Thiede claimed that she never really thought about quitting. “I can’t imagine my life without running,” she stated. “I just knew that the injuries were obstacles I would have to get over.”

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is not an easy condition to endure. If you have pain in your foot or ankle, see Dr. Michael H. Wynn, DPM of Foot Care Associates of Texas. Dr. Wynn can treat your foot and ankle needs.

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.

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

Read more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome


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