Carpal Tunnel for the Feet? Yes, It’s a Real Thing

You’ve probably heard of carpal tunnel syndrome — that painful, tingling feeling in your hands or wrist from nerve compression. But did you know your feet can experience something very similar?

It’s called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, and it often starts with odd sensations near your ankle or heel. At Peak Podiatry, we see it more often than you’d expect, especially in people who are active, on their feet a lot, or dealing with foot or ankle problems.

Let’s break down what’s really going on — and how we can help.

What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Your tarsal tunnel is a small space inside your ankle, right behind the bony bump on the inside of your foot. A major nerve — the posterior tibial nerve — runs through that tunnel along with arteries, veins, and tendons.

When there’s too much pressure or swelling in that area, the nerve can get compressed — just like a pinched nerve in your wrist.

The result? Pain, tingling, and even burning sensations in your heel, arch, or toes.

What Does It Feel Like?

If you’ve got tarsal tunnel syndrome, you might notice:

• Tingling, burning, or numbness in the heel, arch, or sole

• Shooting pain that feels electric

• Worse pain after standing, walking, or exercising

• Pain that improves with rest

• A feeling like your foot is “falling asleep”

• Sometimes swelling or a sensation of pressure near the inside of your ankle

It can affect one foot or both. And if you ignore it, the nerve irritation can get worse over time.

What Causes Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Several things can lead to this kind of nerve compression, including:

• Flat feet – which can stretch and strain the nerve

• Ankle sprains or injuries – which cause swelling

• Arthritis – especially if joints near the ankle are inflamed

• Varicose veins or cysts – taking up space in the tunnel

• Poor footwear or overuse – common in runners and workers on their feet all day

Sometimes there’s no clear reason — but that doesn’t mean it can’t be treated.

How a Podiatrist Diagnoses It

At Peak Podiatry in Galway, heel pain is something we take seriously. During your visit, we’ll:

• Ask about your symptoms and when they show up

• Examine your foot and ankle for tenderness or swelling

• Check your foot posture and nerve sensitivity

• Perform a Tinel’s test — tapping gently along the nerve to see if it triggers your pain

• Refer you for an ultrasound or MRI, if needed, to rule out other issues like cysts or tendon problems

Heel Pain Treatment Options in Galway

If you’re dealing with tarsal tunnel syndrome, the good news is that most cases can be managed without surgery.

Here’s what treatment might look like:

1. Custom Orthotics

If flat feet or abnormal foot posture is the cause, orthotics can reposition your foot to reduce pressure on the nerve.

2. Supportive Footwear

Shoes that cushion the heel and offer arch support can make a big difference. Avoid flimsy or unsupportive shoes that let your foot roll inwards.

3. Anti-inflammatory Care

This may include ice therapy, gentle massage, or even laser therapy to reduce swelling and nerve irritation.

4. Activity Changes

We may suggest temporary rest or modifications to your work or exercise routine to allow healing.

5. Bracing or Taping

In some cases, a soft ankle brace can help limit foot motion and ease nerve pressure while things calm down.

If conservative care doesn’t help, we may refer you to a specialist to explore nerve blocks or surgical options — but that’s usually a last resort.

Early Treatment Makes a Big Difference

The sooner you catch and treat tarsal tunnel syndrome, the better the outcome. Left untreated, it can lead to long-term nerve damage and chronic pain.

If your heel pain isn’t going away — or if your foot feels strange, numb, or tingly — don’t ignore it. A short visit with your heel pain treatment team in Galway could be the key to getting your mobility and comfort back.

Book your appointment today at Peak Podiatry. Let’s get you back on your feet — without the burning, tingling, or stabbing pain.