Does cortisone injection treat tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves irritation or compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes behind the inner ankle. An injection may calm local inflammation and give temporary symptom relief. It cannot correct a tight space, a cyst, an injury, or another source of pressure. Numbness, burning, tingling, or weakness can therefore return, and persistent nerve pressure needs a proper examination.

The injection is placed carefully because the nerve and nearby blood vessels are in this region. Your clinician may first check sensation, strength, foot movement, and possible causes such as footwear pressure or altered foot mechanics.

Arrange an assessment if inner-ankle or sole symptoms continue, especially if walking or standing aggravates them. Treatment may include activity adjustment, supportive footwear, physiotherapy, or addressing an underlying source of compression. Discuss the potential benefits, limitations, and alternatives of a Cortisone Injection before proceeding.

Until you are assessed, avoid activities that clearly trigger nerve symptoms and keep a note of where the tingling occurs, how long it lasts, and whether the foot feels weaker.

Seek prompt medical care for new or worsening foot weakness, difficulty lifting or controlling the foot, rapidly spreading numbness, or severe pain after an injection. Urgent assessment is also appropriate after an injury if the foot becomes cold, pale, markedly swollen, or difficult to move.

Ask what is pressing on the nerve, whether the symptoms fit posterior tibial nerve entrapment, what relief the injection is intended to provide, and what the next step would be if symptoms persist.