Pain-Free Feet: Overcoming Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome with Physiotherapy (Part 2)

Hello!!!
Welcome to the second part of this post where we would be putting the terrorist called Tarsal Tunnel syndrome in its place using nothing but the armed power of physiotherapy interventions, plans, and treatment methods. A quick recap of part 1; We looked at the following:

—What is Tarsal tunnel syndrome?
—Causes of Tarsal tunnel syndrome
—Physiotherapy Evaluation for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

In this Part 2, we would taking a look at or let me say we would be arming ourself with:

Physiotherapy Treatment Options for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
— Stretching Exercises
— functional rehabilitation
— Ultrasound therapy
Manual Therapy Techniques for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Exercises to Relieve and Prevent Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Braces and Other Supportive Devices for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Lets dive in

At this point we know what tarsal Tunnel syndrome is, the causes and how to evaluate or pinpoint it physiotherapy-wise, all from part 1 of this post. Lets proceed. 👇👇

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Now! If you're looking for a way to manage tarsal tunnel syndrome, physiotherapy is key. As the body's largest nerve and best-selling provider of nerve sensations, you want to make sure you look after your tarsal bones and give them the support they need to function well.

Fortunately, physiotherapy can help with that! And the best part is that the treatment options are easily accessible and super effective. Here are some of the most commonly used therapy methods:

Stretching Exercises

These exercises help stretch and protect your tarsal bones from further damage. You can use a foam roller to increase blood flow, as well as dynamic exercises like leg swings or ankle circles.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy sends high frequencies of sound waves into your tissue, which helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation and promote muscle relaxation. You may also feel a slight heating sensation during treatment.

Functional Rehabilitation

Functional rehabilitation takes a holistic approach by addressing not just the symptoms but also any underlying issues like poor posture or weak muscles that may have caused the pain in the first place. This kind of training will help restore your balance and coordination while strengthening your affected muscles so they can fully support your tarsal bones .

And these are just some of the ways physiotherapy can help treat tarsal tunnel syndrome! So the question is why are you waiting, consult a physiotherapist today.

Manual Therapy Techniques for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

As a physiotherapist, I can attest to the fact that manual therapy techniques are incredibly effective at managing symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. I've seen patients who have experienced reduced pain and improved mobility through the use of these simple, yet effective techniques.

For example, manual mobilization of the ankle joint helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain from pressure on the nerve. In addition, there are specific manual techniques that target the nerves and improved mobility of that area. With my patients, I typically recommend soft tissue manipulation, joint mobilization and deep tissue massage to target areas surrounding the tarsal tunnel.

Finally, there is proprioceptive re-education. This type of exercise involves targeted stimulation of sensory receptors in order to improve coordination and balance. It’s a great way to address overall strength, flexibility and stability—all important components when dealing with tarsal tunnel syndrome. With these exercises specifically targeting stability in the ankle region, you can help alleviate discomfort caused by this condition quickly and effectively.

Exercises to Relieve and Prevent Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Exercise is one of the most reliable ways to reduce pain and inflammation caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome. Plus, certain exercises can help reduce pressure on the tarsal tunnel and strengthen the muscles in the ankle and foot. However, it's important to remember that not all exercises are created equal when it comes to relieving tarsal tunnel syndrome—so be sure to consult a physio who can tailor an exercise program that works for you!

That said, here are some of the most effective exercises that provide relief from tarsal tunnel syndrome:

Ankle Circles

Ankle circles are a great way to warm up and stretch out your ankles before any exercise session. To do this exercise, find a comfortable seated position and start making small circles with both ankles. Take a break every minute or so to switch directions, and make sure you take your time throughout each rotation.

Foot Strengthening Exercises

Foot strengthening exercises like toe curls and heel raises can help build strength in the muscles and ligaments that support the ankle joint. For toe curls, curl each toe upward then downward—and to do a heel raise, simply bring up your heel off the ground as far as you can go. Aim for 3 sets of 10 reps for each exercise.

Balance Exercises

Balance exercises also play an important role in managing tarsal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Try standing on one foot for as long as you feel comfortable—then switch sides once one side becomes tired. As these become easier over time, add an arm-raising motion while keeping your eyes focused on one point in the room in order to challenge yourself even more!

Braces and Other Supportive Devices for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

When it comes to treating tarsal tunnel syndrome, physiotherapy isn't the only option. One of the most common treatments is braces and other supportive devices. These can be used to support the foot and ankle, limit movement in certain directions, reduce the pain of compression on the nerve, or just provide some extra stability while you heal.

Braces and other supportive devices are a great way to ease pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome while allowing you to still move freely.
Depending on your specific needs, you may opt for something as basic or simple as an ankle brace or a more complex and modified device such as an orthotic, customized specifically for your foot shape and size. Most of these are relatively inexpensive and easy to put on and take off (no complicated contraptions here!).

Supportive devices can also help by temporarily altering the position of your foot in a way that relieves pressure on your nerve when your foot is at rest (such as when you're going about your daily activities). Additionally, special insoles can be added for cushioning or arch support if needed.

No matter what device you choose, it's important to remember that braces and other supportive devices won't cure tarsal tunnel syndrome—they are meant merely to aid in recovery while under care from a trained physiotherapist.

Finally, if you’re experiencing foot pain due to tarsal tunnel syndrome, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out to a physiotherapy professional who can assess your condition and create a custom treatment plan to alleviate your pain. Whether it’s manual therapy, exercises, functional retraining, or something else, they’ll help get the wheels (or, should I say, feet) rolling so you can be back on your feet in no time.

SO THAT WILL ALL FROM MY SIDE ON TARSAL TUNNEL SYNDROME PHYSIOTHERAPY-WISE.

Thanks for your time, its not over, stay tuned for more on conditions amenable to physiotherapy. Till then, I see you when I see you 🖐️

References

https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1236852-overview

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/tarsal-tunnel-syndrome

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22200-tarsal-tunnel-syndrome

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513273/

https://www.physio-pedia.com/Tarsal_Tunnel_Syndrome