Question
Yesterday I had a 2nd episode of what seems to be Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.  It started on the inside of my left foot, right below the ankle bone and than radiates under my foot, into my toes, I cannot move or stand on the foot because it exasperates the pain, it also radiates into my calf, causing a warming sensation.  I cannot do anything to stop the pain, I just have to wait for it to subside.  Both episodes started when I was driving. My question is, does Tarsal Tunnel constantly cause pain or do they come in episodes like I described?  Will these episodes come more frequently(they were about 2 weeks apart)if it is Tarsal Tunnel?  Once the excruciating pains subsides, I am left with a feeling of a slightly sprained ankle for a few hours.  I have a doctor's appointment next week and I am sure he will refer me to a neurologist or podiatrist.  I understand that this is not a very common condition and hope that I get referred to someone with experience in diagnosing and treating whatever I am experiencing.  

Answer
Hi Lynne,

Tarsal tunnel is usually painful with certain movements or positions, however, it can be constant.  The feeling of muscle soreness or sprain is not uncommon.  Typically, people with TT will have a flat foot and require extra support.  Other possible causes of the pain can be poor circulation or a cyst/mass near the nerve.

Please see the article from my website below for more info:

http://www.thetampapodiatrist.com/document_disorders.cfm?id=138

I'm assuming that you need a referral from you primary care physician.  If not, I would go directly to a Podiatrist and they will order a test known as a nerve conduction study.  It is also very very important to have an MRI to see if there is something in the canal where the nerve enters the foot.

If you do need a referral, you would be wise to do some investigating prior to your appointment.  See if you can find a Podiatrist on your own that has experience with this condition and see if they are on your plan.  Then tell your PCP the name of the Dr.

I hope all goes well.  Where do you live?  By chance I may know someone in your area.

Sincerely,


Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com