People often look for the best shoes for tarsal tunnel. The tarsal tunnel is a tunnel-like hollow in your foot, from where the tibial nerve goes through and connect with other parts of your foot. A tibial nerve consists of almost all the nerve tissues from the upper parts of your body. They connect with your foot via the tarsal tunnel. This tunnel is covered by flexor retinaculum ligament and ankle bone. When this tunnel gets shrunk or squeezed, it put pressures on those nerve tissue.
Any kind of shrinkage in the tarsal tunnel causes irritating pain and numbness in your feet. It starts from your toes and goes through the base of the foot to the ankle. People who have pain originated from the tarsal tunnel, often recommended using specific shoes by the podiatrist. Some shoes often help to reduce the pain caused by tarsal tunnel syndrome. You can also wear these recommended shoes as a precautionary measure against the tarsal tunnel.
You need to be aware of choosing shoes. Shoes lacking determined features may cause different foot-related issue. There are various shoe brands which are both stylish and suitable for TTS(tarsal tunnel syndrome). They will satisfy your fashion appeal and will help you with your tarsal tunnel syndrome. Ankle brace can be used with them. You can easily find out about the best ankle brace for sinus tarsi syndrome online.
Reviews of the Best Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel :
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can become your worst enemy if you don’t choose the right type of footwear. A large number of people, especially the women are now a victim to this annoying issue. So, it is crucial to find one of the best women’s shoes for tarsal tunnel before it gets too late. Well, that can be a bit hard if you don’t know what to look for and what to avoid in a shoe. But as now you are here, there is nothing to worry about. Come with us, and let’s sort things out!
| Image | Product | Price | Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ASICS Men's GEL Venture 5 Our rating: | $ | |
 | Nike Women's Revolution 4 Our rating: | $ | |
 | Skechers Women's Joy Walking Our rating: | $ | |
 | adidas Women's Cloudfoam Qt Our rating: | $ | |
 | Saucony Men's Cohesion 10 Running Shoe Our rating: | $ |
ASICS Men’s GEL Venture 5 Running Shoe
ASICS Men's GEL Venture 5 Running Shoe
Features
- Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System: Attenuates shock during impact phase and allows for a smooth transition to midstance.
- Removable Sockliner: A sockliner which can be removed to accommodate a medical orthotic.
- Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
- Trail Specific Outsole: Reversed lugs provide uphill and downhill traction on all types of terrain.
These shoes are a good fit for your feet and comfortable at the same time. They are suitable for running. This shoe will be perfect for you if you intend to use them for running. They will also make your daily walking more efficient and effective. These shoes offer tremendous comfort to your feet. They contain rearfoot gel cushioning, which makes your walking more relaxing. Their shaft has a height near two and a half-inch which is good for your ankle. These shoes provide removable sock liner which let you insert any kind of orthotics.
Product features:
These shoes are durable and comfy. Their gel technology makes it one of the comfiest shoe brand. Rearfoot gel at the back of your ankle will definitely make your walking more enjoyable. It is particularly good for people with wide feet and toes. The traction lag at the bottom of the shoe is well constructed to prevent any falling and stumbling. They provide adequate traction force with their well-built lag. This aspects of this shoe make your walking flawless.
The rubber sole of these shoes is extremely durable. They are rigid and flexible. They are well constructed to absorb impacts or shock, which is helpful for people with tarsal tunnel syndrome. If you want to purchase the best shoes for tarsal tunnel, then you should consider this product. Their removable sock liner will let you insert one of your own orthotic accessories. They use AHAR rubber in the parts which face greater stress and wear. It makes them sturdier.
Pros:
- Superb for walking
- Top notch quality and synthetic
- Strong grip
- Suitable for wide feet
- Provide great cushioning to the heel and arc
- Awesome for flat feet
- Long-lasting sole
Cons:
- Not fit for vigorous running.
Nike Women’s Revolution 4 Running Shoe
Nike Women's Revolution 4 Running Shoe, Purple Agate/Atmosphere Grey, 7.5 Regular US
Features
- LIGHTWEIGHT SHOE: Women's Nike shoes are made of lightweight, single-layer mesh for breathability. No-sew overlays along the midfoot and eyestays provide durability while keeping the running shoe lightweight.
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: Women's shoes offer support and structure with underlays in the vamp and toe tip while the cushioned heel collar of the running shoe remains low-profile for lightweight comfort.
- SOFT FOAM MIDSOLE: Nike Revolution 4 women's athletic shoes are built with soft injected Phylon (IP) foam for lightweight, responsive cushioning, plus horizontal bellows molded into the foam create added response.
- RUBBER OUTSOLE: Full-length rubber outsole on this Nike running shoe provides traction, durability and cushioning for your runs.
- MULTI-SURFACE TRACTION: Molded pods offer multi-surface tractions for our Revolution 4 women's running shoes. Pods flatten on impact then spring back at toe-off creating a piston effect that delivers responsive cushioning.
From the name, you can assume that it is exclusively for the woman. As women often wear a high heel or other kinds of shoes that are nice looking but not comfortable for feet. These kinds of events may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome among women. If you are trying to find the best shoes for tarsal tunnel which is exclusively for women, you should definitely give this one a try. They are well designed and well-cushioned. These shoes are mainly made for running, but there is no harm in walking them. These shoes are wide enough to accommodate your middle part of the feet, which is beneficial for individuals with tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Product features:
This shoe is made from synthetic leather, which makes it soothing and flexible footwear. The material is well suited to handle the stress from running. They come in different colors. Shafts are at a satisfied height which doesn’t apply any additional force on the upper side of the ankle. Rather it contains enough cushioning for your ankle.
Their size and shapes are satisfactory. Mesh at the upper part of the shoe enables moderate airflow. The midsole of these shoes is light weighted, which makes this shoe an excellent lightweight running shoe. Thus it assists in the running and beneficial for tarsal tunnel syndrome. Outsole made out of the rubber makes it durable and tough to wear out. Mesh fabric at the upper parts has the water-resisting ability, which makes it fairly water proof.
Pros:
- Awesome design and comes with different colors.
- Offers proper accommodation and space for your feet.
- Well ventilation and comfort label.
- Low price.
- Lightweight and good performance.
- Comfortable cushioning
- Recommended for running and morning exercise.
Cons:
- These shoes are mainly made for running. You can also use them for walking if you want to.
- People find it not suited for vigorous using.
Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe
Skechers Womens Go Joy Walking Shoe, Black, 8 US
$45.00 in stock
2 used from $44.55
Features
- Lightweight and responsive 5Gen midsole cushioning
- Skechers Air Cooled Goga Mat breathable insole with high-rebound cushioning
- Breathable athletic engineered mesh upper
- Flexible traction outsole
- Machine washable, air dry
These shoes provide extra padding than the previous shoes. This is surprisingly effective for people with foot pain. Individuals with tarsal tunnel syndrome should wear this shoe for it’s out of the world comfort level. This is recommended for senior citizens. You can wear them for a morning walk or casual walking.
They also come in different colors and style. Almost all of the shoes from Sketchers are a wide shoe, which is suitable for people with flat feet and other foot-related issues. It possesses good arch support. The synthetic sole and other padding in different places are instilled to provide sufficient support to the feet.
Product features:
This shoe is softer than other shoes. It doesn’t contain any leather. Rather, it is totally made of textile. Low top shaft is provided for proper ankle support. As they are totally made of textile, this allows the shoe to provide the maximum amount of airflow to your feet. If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, you should look for this shoe for relaxing walking experience.
These shoes have awesome fifth-generation cushioning and flexibility. They are a robust type of shoes. They look soft, but they are highly durable. It provides fair ventilation via foam in its upper area.
Pros:
- Well fitted for signor or old people
- Effective for individuals with foot issue like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- Comfy and breathable
- Well-padded to provide support for the feet.
- Light-weighted midsole makes you walking easier.
- They will fit easily to your feet because of their simple and mindful design
- Excellent arc support.
Cons:
Outsole of these shoes are vulnerable to wear. It only happens if you use them roughly or use them for heavy-duty.
Adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Qt Racer Running Shoe
adidas Women's Cloudfoam Qt Racer Running Shoe
Features
- Adidas Neo Cloudfoam Qt Racer W Navy/White Other ( AW4004 )
These shoes are extremely comfortable footwear for woman. They are lightly weighted, which helps people with foot issues greatly. It is mostly a synthetic textile shoe which provides awesome assist and support to the feet of the users. These shoes have a colorful and marvelous design. It suits the younger people more. You can also use them if you want to go running.
Product features:
Synthetic textile offers comfort and breathability. Bigger portion of the shoes is covered with a mesh upper, which makes it air breathable. It has a robust and durable rubber sole. These rubber sole are quite flexible. They ensure proper feet motions. You can fit your feet easily with the assistance of adjustable laces. This sneaker also comes with a classic design which is quite appealing.
The outsole of these shoes not only provide cushioning to your feet but also provide enough required traction force. Both outsole and sock liner has cloud foam in them. This provides superior padding and cushion to your feet.
Pros:
- Highly efficient and comfortable
- Provide extra cushioning and padding.
- These shoes provide enough grip, which is helpful for running.
- Cool designs and comes with different colors.ty
Cons:
- There are some complaining about small toe size. It is not the case for everyone. You should buy a slightly bigger size.
Saucony Men’s Cohesion 10 Running Shoe
Saucony Men's Cohesion 10 Running Shoe, Royal/Black, 11 M US
Features
- GRID, Injection EVA,
This is a shoe for the runner who likes to do heavy running for miles. This is probably the best running shoe for the tarsal tunnel. They are extremely tough and can bear a high amount of stress and pressure. These shoes come with low prices and offer moderate longevity, which is suitable for sporty individuals. You can wear them for running, exercise or other kinds of sports. This shoe provides durability with quality. They possess excellent cushioning elements like other sporting shoes.
Product features:
It has a huge amount of mesh all around the body. It provides extra cushion and padding for heavy uses like running. Air flows through these mesh structure to provide air inside the shoe. Thick and soft insole works as a good shock absorber. Comfortable and pliable midsole are made by injection-molded EVA. The cushions in these shoes are perfect for training shoes. They provide good supports. These shoes are preferable for maintaining balance while running.
Pros:
- Highly efficient for exercise, sports and long-range running
- Tough and durable structure
- Provide enough padding and cushion to support your feet.
- Comes with a moderate price.
- High-performance shoe.
- Excellent breathability
- Light weighted
Cons:
- It has less arc support. this common among most of the sport shoes
- Vulnerable to water.
Best Running Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The pain of tarsal tunnel can be felt when you are running or taking exercises. The stretch in your leg is largely felt at this time. A proper shoe can give you relief from this pain. And that’s why we have selected some of the best women’s shoes for tarsal tunnel for providing adequate support to your foot. All of the products are hand-picked by our experts so you can fully rely on them. Let’s get started!
| Image | Product | Price | Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Our rating: | $ | |
 | Propét Men's TravelFit Our rating: | $ | |
 | ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 22 Our rating: | $ |
ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes
ASICS Men's Gel-Venture 7 Running Shoes, 9.5M, Black/Sheet Rock
Features
- Asics Gel Venture 7 Running Shoes 001Black/Sheet 9.5
You will definitely prefer the best of the best as the first product on our list. The Asics men’s gel-venture seven running shoes are literally one of them. The features and designs of this shoe have placed it among the best shoes for tarsal tunnel. Right now, the shoe has a large family of 20+ thousands of satisfied customers. So, you can undoubtedly rely on this product to prevent tarsal tunnel.
Product features:
The shoe is made from a mixture of synthetic and mesh material. As a result, you will get the maximum amount of durability and comfort. The shoe is breathable and provides excellent moisture management throughout usage. So, you won’t have to worry about any types of skin issues or sweat-caused problems when you are wearing this shoe. Besides, it has a premium sock liner with higher rebound properties. This feature will give you the required amount of flexibility at the time of running. Its rubber sole is completely non-slip and maintains adequate traction with the ground. This will keep your feet protected on every surface.
Pros:
- Made with the mixture of synthetic and mesh
- Anti-skid rubber sole
- Features higher rebound properties
- Provides excellent moisture management
- High-level of breathability
- Comfortable and durable
Cons:
- The laces are very thin
Propét Men’s TravelFit Walking Shoe
Propet Men's TravelFit Walking Shoe, Grey, 8 5E US
Features
- Wide widths
- Flexible sole
- Medicare coding for a5500 footwear
We have got the Propét men’s travel fit walking shoe at the second position of this list. Many users face unusual fitting due to their wider feet. But this won’t happen when you are buying the Propet Travelfita. This shoe is specially designed to fit the contour of wider feet and provide adequate comfort throughout the usage. Besides, the shoe has a flexible sole, which can deliver adequate support for your natural movement.
Product features:
The entire construction of this shoe is made from a mesh material. As a result, this shoe 100% breathable and will keep your feet cool during every pronation. It can also prevent moisture and sweat-caused issues. The manufacturer of this shoe pays special attention to the comfort zone and supportive areas. Honestly, that’s really essential when you are having foot issues. The shoe features cushy comfort, which can absorb all the impacts and provide your leg with a softer feel. Aside from this, its wider design will give your feet a roomy area to give you the freedom of walking. The shoe is lightweight and perfect for travellers.
Pros:
- The entire construction is made from mesh material
- Provides adequate support to the feet
- Most comfortable shoe out there
- Flexible sole
- Wide width design
Cons:
- The heel area is a bit stiff
ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 22 Platinum Running Shoes
ASICS Men's Gel-Nimbus 22 Running Shoes, 8.5M, Black/Black
Features
| Part Number | 1021A423.001 |
| Model | 1021A423 |
| Color | Black/Black |
| Size | 8.5 |
The unique and stylish design of this shoe is the key attraction that will make you fall in love with it. So, if you were searching for a stylish option, you can definitely try this one out. This shoe is also available in a grey variant to maintain your bold appearance. The shoe is made with a mixture of fabric and synthetic material. Its sturdy construction can handle all types of abrasion, providing you with long-lasting support.
Product features:
This shoe has given comfiness a new name. It features a rearfoot and forefoot gel technology cushioning system. This soft foam sole can handle the shocks and allows you to move with maximum comfort. Besides, it is engineered with a monofilament upper to enhance your comfort zone to the fullest. The shoe provides the supreme bounce with the energetic foam formulation of ASICS. Moreover, it has an EVA sock liner to provide additional cushioning during your pronation. With this massive amount of comfort, this shoe will surely boost your performance. It will give you a feather-like feel, giving you relief from your foot pain. The shoe is equipped with a high abrasion rubber from ASICS in the critical areas of the outsole. As a result, you will get exceptional durability from this shoe.
Pros:
- Made from the combination of fabric and synthetic material
- Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL technology
- Monofilament upper
- Features ASICS energetic foam formulation
- EVA sock liner
- High abrasion rubber outsole
Cons:
- A bit heavy
Best Sneakers for Tarsal Tunnel
The above shoes are perfect for running, but for your everyday use, you will need something else. Look, running and walking shoes aren’t the same. Each of them is designed in a specific way for your required support. A running shoe is flexible and has more cushioning. But a walking shoe needs to be lightweight and provide adequate support in the heel area. With this in mind, we have selected some of the best sneakers for tarsal tunnel.
| Image | Product | Price | Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Vionic Women's Brisk Miles Our rating: | $$ | |
 | Cole Haan Men's Nantucket Loafer Our rating: | $ | |
 | Secret Slippers Men's Diabetic Shoes Our rating: | $ |
Vionic Women’s Brisk Miles Lace-up Active Sneaker
Vionic Women's Brisk Miles Leisure Sneakers- Supportive Walking Shoes That Include Three-Zone Comfort with Orthotic Insole Arch Support, Sneakers for Women, Active Sneakers Black 7.5 Medium US
$89.95 in stock
Features
- Designed with exclusive alignment technology to balance the whole you.
- Full underfoot contact reduces pressure.
- Optimizes degree of forefoot motion.
The stylish design and elegant look of this shoe will surely amaze you. Its attractive design will suit any outfit and enhance your stylish appearance to the fullest. The good thing is, this shoe is available in lots of fun colors. So, you can pick any of your favorite colors to maintain your bold appearance. The shoe has 100% synthetic construction, which combines with a textile upper. Its upper section is completely man-made, for which it can deliver unmatched durability with an extended lifespan.
Product features:
It has a removable mesh-covered EVA footbed for the maximum comfort of your foot. This mesh footbed is also breathable so that your feet can remain cool all the time. That’s not all. Its design also combines a dual-layer mesh upper. So, there will be adequate air circulation inside of your shoe. Its Podiatrist-designed footbed is built to promote stability during your natural pronation. This means you will be able to maintain your balance and enjoy your safe pronation all the time. The designers of this shoe have implemented the perfect combination of style and science, so you can undoubtedly rely on this shoe.
Pros:
- 100% synthetic construction
- EVA footbed
- Removable mesh cover
- Podiatrist-designed footbed
- Promotes stability
- Dual-layer mesh upper
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Needs an orthotic
Cole Haan Men’s Nantucket Loafer
Cole Haan Men's Nantucket Loafer, British Tan Handstain, 8.5
Features
- 100% leather nantucket loafer has been a huge success since its introduction with its fashion Casual look for relaxing events
- With nearly 80 years in the business and hundreds of points of distribution in the U. S., Cole Haan is one of america's premier luxury brands
- Founded in 1928 as a collaboration between trafton Cole and Eddie haan, Cole Haan epitomized artisan quality and impeccable craftsmanship during a time when style was everything
- With nearly 80 years in the business and hundreds of points of distribution in the U.S., Cole Haan is one of america's premier luxury brands
After that, we have got the Cole Haan Men’s Nantucket Loafer. Its classic design suits all casual looks. That’s why it is a perfect sneaker for your everyday wear. You can also use it at your workstations for your all-day comfort. The shaft of this shoe measures high from the arch, and that’s why there will be ample space for your feet. Its rubber sole is completely non-slip and protects you from all types of slip-caused issues. So, there is nothing to worry about.
Product features:
The loafer features 100% leather construction, giving a premium look to the users. This premium construction has retained the reputation of Nantucket Loafer for 80 years. Yes, you have heard that right. Nantucket is more than 80 years old, and during this time, they have provided the market with numerous high-end shoes. So, buying this shoe will definitely be ideal for supporting your feet.
Pros:
- 100% leather construction
- Shaft measures high from the arch
- Non-slip rubber sole
- It offers a casual look
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Lack of proper heel support
- The toe box is too narrow
Bunions Men’s Sneakers
Unlike others, the Bunions Men’s Sneakers is specifically designed for plantar fasciitis and all other foot and heel pain relief. So, this will be an ideal choice for getting relief from the tarsal tunnel pain. Even if you had recent feet surgery, this shoe would be perfect for you. Its arch support insole is designed to improve the alignment of your foot. As a result, you will be able to recover from your pain quickly and effectively. If you are having foot pain but still want to continue your work, then this will be the ideal shoe for you.
Product features:
The orthotic insole features a hard TPU layer and cushioning layer of PU memory foam. This premium quality foam can enhance comfort and ease the pain of your foot. Besides, it has a latex metatarsal pad that helps to prevent foot pressure and fatigue throughout usage. And for absorbing the shocks, it has massaging gel waves and all-day-comfort cushioning. This shoe is super lightweight, which will reduce the burden on your feet. You will rarely feel its presence while walking. Compared to others, this slip-on style loafer is easy to put and take off. Its comfortable upper delivers outstanding heat dissipation, keeping your feet cool all day long. All these features have made it one of the best shoes for the tarsal tunnel.
Pros:
- Arch support insole
- EVA and Rubber outsole
- Super lightweight
- Comfortable upper
- Versatile to use
- Perfect for tarsal tunnel issue
Cons:
- Not much wide
Cause of Tarsal Tunnel
Before knowing about the best shoes for tarsal tunnel, you need to know why you should use specific shoes for the tarsal tunnel. You also need to know the reason behind tarsal tunnel syndrome. If you have tarsal tunnel syndrome, you need suitable shoes. These shoes will relieve you from the excruciating pain and contribute to your healing process. Even if you don’t have any TTS, you should wear these kinds of shoes for preventing any future TTS. These shoes also come with features that will increase your comfort level.
There could be many reasons for tarsal tunnel syndrome. The most probable reasons are flat feet, too much running or walking, accident, etc. In one word, any kind of activity that will put excessive pressure for an extended period of time has a probability of causing TTS. People sometimes born with some deformity from birth, which may also cause this syndrome.
Flat feet faces too much stress on them due to the lack of arch in their feet. Runner and athletic players often apply repetitive pressure on their feet. All this extra pressure may cause the tarsal tunnel to shrink. Thus, applying extra force on the sensitive nerve tissues. Some suggest that this type of pressure on the nerves may lead to the neuropathy. So you need to take measures if you notice any signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome. For sufferers who go out regularly, it is imperative for them to find the remedy for this disease. Suitable shoes will provide enough support and comfort to help you in your healing process.
Features of Suitable Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel
Preferable shoes for tarsal tunnel should have comfortable and supportive insole, outsole, the right size, robust built, etc. They should be able to provide you with enough cushioning needed to reduce the pressure from the tarsal tunnel. These bellowed features are the common attributes of these shoes. You should make sure that the shoe that you are purchasing exhibits these attributes.
Support and Cushioning
The first thing you have to look in your intended shoe is the proper cushioning to support your ankle and ball of your foot. The shoe has to have enough cushioning to reduce the stress in your tarsal tunnel. These cushioning will protect your feet from excess and sudden impact, which is nasty for your feet.
You can insert different type of orthotic supports inside these shoes according to your podiatrist suggestion. These shoes let you insert any kind of extra supports like arc support, heel support, etc. Some of these shoes also offer their own support accessories.
Excellent Outsole
The outsole of the shoe has to be supportive enough. Avoid shoes with thin outsole. The thin outsole doesn’t have that much shock absorption ability. Look for the components of the outsole. They should be moderately flexible. They will only bend over the ball of the foot. The material of the outsole has to be robust. Otherwise, they will not provide that required assistance to your feet for a long time. For the regular runner, great emphasis has to be put on the outsole. This outsole is exposed to the maximum stress caused by walking or running. That’s why you need your outsole to be strong enough to last for an adequate amount of time.
Shape and Size of Your Shoe
This is a crucial aspect of the shoe. It is mandatory that your shoe perfectly suits your feet. Shoes that are too tight and compact has an adverse effect on your feet. Regular wearing of compact shoes will aggravate your condition. Tight shoes may put extra pressure on the tarsal tunnel.
So you should always buy shoes in the right size. Even shoes with the right size contain some tight area due to the design of your shoe. That’s why you have to ensure that your shoe has enough space in the middle for the bones of your feet. Some shoes are tight at the end, which squeezes the toes. That is quite painful for individuals with tarsal tunnel syndrome. These shoes should have breathability to ensure the air to flow through your feet. It should be wide enough to accommodate your heel adequately. A well-shaped shoe is a must to prevent tarsal tunnel syndrome. It is also obligatory for individuals suffering from TTS.
Insoles
Insoles provide support and cushioning to your footbed. This attribute is fairly effective for your healing process from tarsal tunnel syndrome. They are removable. So you can add your own customize insole for a better performance. They soothe the ailing tendon tissues and your footbed, which is really useful and soothing for the patient with Tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Weight
Lightweight shoes are suitable for this situation. It puts less weight on your feet. Thus it distresses your feet and makes your walking easier. Heavy shoes apply extra gravity force on your shoe, which makes walking problematic for you. In order to cope with these heavy shoes, your feet face different kind of strain which may affect the tarsal tunnel. So always look for lightweight shoes.
What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
The tarsal tunnel is found inside the ankle area of our feet. This is formed by the bones of our ankle and the ligament bands that usually stretch in the foot. The tarsal tunnel contains many blood vessels, tendons, nerves, playing an important role in your foot’s movement. It also contains the posterior tibial nerve, and when this nerve compresses due to some unusual reason, tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs. This can cause unbearable pain, swelling, numbness in the foot. Aside from this, there are many other reasons for tarsal tunnel syndrome. These are:
- Swelling due to ankle sprain
- Flat feet
- Arthritis and Diabetes
- Ganglion cyst, swollen tendon, varicose vein, or bone spur can also trigger tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
The tarsal tunnel has many symptoms. Patients can feel one or sometimes more at the initial stage. The symptoms are:
- A sensation of electrical issue
- Burning or tingling
- Numbness
- Pain and swelling
The symptoms are usually felt at the ankle area or at the bottom of the foot. In some cases, people can feel the pain at a particular spot, or the symptom may just isolate. On the other hand, the symptoms can extend to the heel, arch, and toe areas of the foot.
Sometimes you may find the symptoms soon after the syndrome starts. Most often, they are caused by the overuse of the feet. This means when you are standing for a long time or exercising, the tarsal tunnel may occur.No matters when how it started or where you are feeling the pain, initial treatment is recommended. If you notice any of the above-discussed symptoms, you should visit a doctor as early as possible. If the syndrome is untreated, then it may progress and result in permanent foot damage.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Okay, when you will visit your foot and ankle surgeon, they will first examine the condition of your foot and determine if there is any loss of feeling. During this time, your surgeon will first position your foot and examine your leg by tapping the nerves. He may also press on the painful area to see if any small mass is present.If he finds any mass or if the initial treatment doesn’t reduce the issue, he may order advanced imaging. Studies like electromyography and EMG/NCV may also be ordered to evaluate the nerve problem. Even after all these, your condition still remains the same; he may go with nonsurgical treatment.
Nonsurgical Treatment
There are many treatments that can aid tarsal tunnel syndrome. These are often used as a combination. The treatments include these:
- The doctor may suggest you take a rest. The main goal of this treatment is to prevent you from staying on your foot and encourage the healing process.
- Applying an ice pack in the affected area can help you reduce the pain. Simply place a towel between your skin and the ice. Then use the ices for 20 minutes. Wait 40 minutes before applying the second dose of ice.
- This also includes some oral treatment. The doctor may suggest taking some Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs will help you to reduce the pain.
- Sometimes you will have to restrict the movement of your foot can boost your healing process. For this, wearing a cast may be necessary to allow the nerves to heal.
- In order to reduce the symptoms, your doctor prescribes ultrasound therapy, physical therapy, and other exercises that can help you reduce the pain.
- A local anesthetic injection can help you relieve the pain in your foot. For treating your inflammation, you may need to be injected with a corticosteroid.
- Your doctor or therapist may prescribe some custom shoe inserts. These inserts will help you to maintain your arch and reduce excessive motion that can trigger the compression of the nerve.
- Some supportive shoes may be recommended. Like the shoes in the above list, we have named the best shoes for tarsal tunnel.
- The patients who have flatfoot or those who have multiple symptoms that can end up in nerve damages may need the support of a brace. This can reduce the pressure on the foot and help you to recover quickly.
- By compressing the foot and keeping it raised can reduce inflammation in your foot. For this method, you will have to keep the foot raised above the heart. It will be better if you can use an ACE wrap to wrap your leg. Try to use a pillow to rest it while you are sleeping or sitting.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery Recovery and Complications
TTS treatments start with anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, steroid injections are also needed to be injected into the tarsal tunnel area. The recovery time depends on the syndrome and its type. Generally, it takes 8-16 weeks after the surgery.
TTS – Surgery Recovery
Depending on the condition of your foot, your doctor may suggest you go through several surgical procedures. This can include an operation named tarsal tunnel release. As we have said above, it takes 9-16 weeks to finally recover after surgery. But the stage depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, it may take six months to recover completely after the surgery stage.
TTS – Complications
Due to TTS, you will feel enormous pain inside of your ankle and at the bottom of your feet. It can also cause irritations in the toes and your lower legs. TTS squeezes the nerve and makes it narrow and confined.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Exercises
When the symptoms become less painful, you can start some strengthening exercises to prevent further problems. This can also boost up your recovery stage and help you regain your natural mobility. Some of the commonly recommended exercises are:
Ankle Pumps
- Sit down by keeping the legs extended. Then gently and slowly bend the foot at the ankles. First, do it downwards to the ground and then upwards to the body. Try to reach as much as you can and repeat it several times.
- Rolle the ankle slowly and gently with a circular motion. You can do it as aggressively as it is comfortable to you. Make sure to do it several times.
- Turn the ankle slowly inward and outward. Try to create a windshield wiper motion. Once you are done, try to repeat all these three exercises several times a day.
Raises of Heel-toe
- Stand straight, and they raise your toes slowly as far as possible.
- After that, lower the toes slowly and start raising the heels gently. At this stage, put gradual pressure on the ball of your foot.
- Repeat this exercise at least ten times a day
Stretch of Plantar Fascia
- Sit down by extending your leg and try to reach the big toe as long as you feel comfortable. Then pull backward. You can use a stretching band, sock, or a dishtowel.
- Stretch your foot backward until you feel it from the sole to the ball.Hold this position for 30 seconds at least, and then release your feet slowly.
- Repeat this stretch five to three times a day and continue this for several weeks.
- This can also be done by rolling out the arch, heel, and sole gently in a downward motion.
Some Balance Exercises
- Raise one of your legs by standing straight, and then try to raise the sole of that foot
- Hold this position for 10-15 seconds at least. Make sure not to overstretch the inner ankle. If you are feeling too wobbly, restart the exercise by lowering the foot.
- If you want a more intense version, you can lift your leg in the air as far as you keep away from your body.
Stretch of the Soleus Muscle
- For this, you will have to perform the gastrocnemius stretch. But in this case, you won’t have to use your back leg.
- If it seems easier to you, then you can increase the stretch a bit more by placing something under the front or at the ball area of your foot. This can also be done by propping your foot’s ball up on the wall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bad Shoes Cause Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the nerve in the back of your ankle (tarsal) becomes inflamed and compressed, causing pain and tingling sensations.Bad shoes can cause this condition if they are too tight or too narrow. This makes it difficult for the nerves to function properly, leading to pain.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Pair of Tarsal Tunnel Shoes?
A pair of Tarsal Tunnel Shoes will cost you anywhere from $45 to $160. If you are looking for a cheaper option, the Nike Free shoes have been proven to be just as effective as the more expensive Tarsal Tunnel Shoes.
Are Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel Worth It?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes tingling, numbness, and pain in the foot or toes. The condition can be triggered by wearing high-heeled shoes for prolonged periods.The most effective treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome is rest and avoiding the activities that are causing it. Other treatments include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and surgery.Shoes that fit well will help reduce the pressure on your feet caused by wearing high heels. Shoes with padding inside will also provide support to relieve pressure on your feet.
Are Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel Safe?
Yes, they are. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain and numbness in the bottom of your foot. It can be caused by pressure on the tarsal nerve due to tight shoes or overuse from excessive walking or running.Shoes for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome:• Ankle boots and knee-high boots are good options for prevention. • A slipper or a low-heeled shoe with an open toe is also a good option.
Conclusion:
You should be able to find the best shoes for tarsal tunnel among these shoes. You can take suggestions from your podiatrist on this matter. Always try your shoes in the afternoon before buying. Because in the afternoon your foot remains in its normal size. If you are a sportsman, then you should look for the durable, well-cushioned and high-performance shoe. For senior members find a shoe with extra paddings and comfortable outsole.
You may read also – Best Running Shoes for Compartment Syndrome
