An Unwanted Running Injury
The worst news for a runner is to be sidelined with injury. Running injuries are common due to the repeated striking of the feet, causing wear and tear. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is an often overlooked injury that, if left untreated, could limit movement. For severe cases, tarsal tunnel release surgery is the best way to treat this condition. While surgery can sound daunting, the right recovery routine can quickly have runners back in action.
Understanding your tarsal tunnel syndrome
Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome that happens in the hands. But what is tarsal tunnel syndrome? Each foot contains the tarsal tunnel near the inner ankle. The tibial nerve passes through the tunnel, providing sensation to the bottom of the foot and toes. Inflammation of the tarsal tunnel causes compression of the tibial nerve. Pain, numbness, and tingling in the toes and bottom of the foot are common symptoms. Untreated tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to weakness, repeat injuries, and reduced movement.
A much-needed release
Runners are at risk of developing tarsal tunnel syndrome due to repeated trauma or previous injuries. People with diabetes or arthritis are also at risk. Over time, the nerve can reduce feeling and even blood supply due to scarring. Conservative treatment options like rest, bracing, and pain medication can help, but chronic cases require surgery. With tarsal tunnel release, a surgeon makes incisions near the inner ankle. An endoscope goes into one cut to view the inflamed tissue. Other surgical tools enter the second incision. The surgeon can then remove some of the tarsal tunnel to give the tibial nerve more breathing room.
It’s time for recovery
Tarsal tunnel release is an outpatient surgery, meaning the patient can leave the same day. After surgery, the patient starts the recovery process almost immediately. Recovery first starts with minimizing pain and caring for the incision. Minimally invasive surgery reduces the recovery time significantly. Doctors even allow light walking after 1 week. After that, however, the patient will need physical therapy to return to normal activities like running.
Ready to run?
Physical therapy helps strengthen the surrounding muscles and ligaments. The patient should perform the prescribed exercises both at home and with a physical therapist. On average, patients can resume full running after 4-6 weeks, depending on fitness levels. Even at the 6-week mark, doctors recommend patients move only short distances while closely monitoring pain. Over several months, running becomes less painful. Full, pain-free recovery takes about 6-12 months.
Don’t ignore your feet
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause limited movement if left untreated. For chronic conditions, surgery is the most effective option. Most athletes, runners, and weekend warriors with the condition are eager to move again. The surgery requires patience and physical therapy for a full recovery. In just a few short weeks, runners should be cleared to move short distances. Follow the instructions of both doctor and physical therapist to avoid any delays in recovery.
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“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
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