tarsal tunnel syndrom(syndrome)

Though I havn't received any comments back yet. When and if I do has anyone had any success w/ neurotin. Tarsal tunnel is basically the same thing as carpel tunnel syndrom (syndrome), it's just in the ankle, and causes extreme pain to the heel and sometimes to the cessmoid bone area of the foot. Its root cause is a nerve in the ankle. Feels like an extremely bad stone bruise. And yes I have spoken w/ Doctors. Just looking for some one else out there who may be goin through something similar.

[JainMD]

Hi Tarsal,
What is your name?
Since how long you are having this tarsal trouble?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is entrapment of the tibial nerve or its distal branches caused by compression or traction as the nerve courses through the tarsal tunnel.
What imaging study you have done till now?
MRI would be helpful in assessing the tarsal tunnel for masses or other sources of nerve compression before surgery. You can also ask for electro-diagnostic studies which can evaluate for evidence of underlying peripheral neuropathy. Isolated motor latencies have a lower sensitivity than sensory or mixed action potentials.
You can ask for nonoperative management as it is recommended except for acute tarsal tunnel syndrome or in the setting of a known space-occupying lesion (excluding synovitis). You can take Rest, plan for Orthotics, start on Anti-inflammatory, including steroid injections and non-steroidal drugs. You can start medications that alter neurogenic pain (tricyclic antidepressants, antiepileptic drugs, nerve blocks) and also Physical therapy (desensitization). Compression stockings and weight loss programmes can be started.
Keep me informed if you have any queries.
Bye.

[tarsaltrouble]

Thanks for the response. This has been going on for close to two years now. It is definitely not a weight problem since I have always been weight concious being a runner and cyclist. Top weight in the off season around 165 at 5' 11''. Obviously there has been more cycling than running lately. Sometimes I can run slowly sometimes not. Most of the time the bike does not bother me until I stand and pedal, or later on after a long ride. I have had the nerve study done which came back negative, which I understand is not uncommon for this situation. Have not had an MRI done yet. Have had 3 cortisone injections over time, oral anti-inflammatories as well, but it doesn't last. Also try to ice the nerve area and the bottom of the foot after training. I have had special orthotics made. I am glad you mentioned the compression stockings because I was thinking about wearing an ankle brace while running or cycling, but since this is a compression injury to the nerve I was not sure if it may further aggravate the situation. I had asked my doctor and he stated he didn't think it would further aggravate it. It was just one of those trial and error things. I just had the last injection a few days ago so I am really going to rest it before trying to start back. I am concerned to continue the life style I like to live and work, surgery maybe the only final option. I'll let you know how the ankle brace does.
Brent

[JainMD]

Hi,
I feel nice that having being understood the problem I am able to help you out with some information.
I think it is necessary to see for soft tissue pathology with help of an MRI study as you would be able to know what is causing the problem.
Keep me informed if you have any queries.
Bye.

[joyful27]

Hi, I have Tarsal Tunnel and have had it for about ten years now. I had sugery on one foot but got only slight relief not enough to undergo the other foot. It took quite a while before I got a definitive diagnosis. See a good neurologist. I was told after my surgery that if you have had symptoms for more than two years you may not have much luck with surgery. I do take neurotin 800mgm five times a day and it does help although the feeling of numbness never completely goes away. I have wondered if there are newer drugs that help more but haven't researched it.

[Tinmarhar]

I was diagnosed with TTS in both feet. After suffering for 3 years, I was finally told surgery was my only option for pain relief. I had the left foot done first and since I've never had surgery, I didn't know I was allergic to betadine, which interrupted my recovery. It's been nearly 2 months and the surgery was indeed a success! I'm contemplating doing the right foot and wonder if it'll be worth it. I know this is vain, but I am afraid of gaining weight back after 2 years of working out. Any suggestions??