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Burning or Tingling in the Foot Could Be Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space on the inside of the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This nerve provides sensation to the bottom of the foot, so irritation can cause unusual symptoms. People often describe burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain that travels into the heel, arch, or toes. Symptoms may worsen with long periods of standing or walking. The condition can develop after an ankle injury, from swelling in the area, or because of foot structure such as flat feet that place extra pressure on the nerve. Without treatment, nerve irritation may gradually worsen and interfere with daily activities. Early care can help reduce pressure on the nerve and relieve discomfort. If you notice persistent tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle Replacement Surgery and Recovery

Tuesday, 05 May 2026

Ankle replacement surgery is designed to remove damaged ankle joint surfaces and replace them with artificial components to restore movement and reduce pain. It is often needed when severe arthritis or joint degeneration limits mobility and daily function. The surgery involves reshaping the bones and inserting prosthetic parts that allow smoother joint motion. Causes leading to this procedure include advanced arthritis, previous fractures, or chronic joint wear. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and prior ankle injuries. A podiatrist plays an important role by diagnosing joint damage, recommending treatment options, and guiding recovery and rehabilitation. If you have chronic ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Friday, 01 May 2026

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

How Gout Is Diagnosed

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood that forms sharp crystals in the joints. It most often affects the big toe because cooler temperatures in the extremities encourage crystal formation, and the joint experiences frequent pressure. Symptoms include sudden severe pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area. Diagnosis involves a medical evaluation, uric acid blood testing, joint fluid analysis to identify crystals, and imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds to detect inflammation and joint damage. Risk factors include high purine diets, alcohol intake, obesity, kidney disease, and genetics. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend lifestyle changes and treatment options. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

Common Causes of Ankle Pain

Tuesday, 21 April 2026

Ankle pain can develop for several reasons, involving the bones, ligaments, tendons, or muscles that support the joint. The ankle connects the leg bones to the foot and allows movement while keeping the body stable. A common cause of ankle pain is a sprain. This injury occurs when ligaments, the strong bands that hold bones together, are stretched or torn, often after a sudden twist. Tendinitis refers to irritation of a tendon, the tissue that connects muscle to bone, and may cause pain, stiffness and swelling. Arthritis, a condition that leads to joint inflammation, can also cause long-term ankle discomfort and reduced motion. Additionally, repetitive stress from walking, running, or standing for long periods of time may worsen symptoms. A podiatrist can examine the ankle, order imaging, and evaluate gait to determine the cause. Treatment options include bracing or custom orthotic devices to improve support and reduce strain. If you are experiencing ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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