How effective is cortisone injection for tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves irritation or compression of the tibial nerve as it passes behind the inner ankle. An injection places medicine near the tunnel to reduce inflammation and may make burning, tingling, or aching easier for a time. It does not widen a tight tunnel, correct a structural cause, or guarantee that nerve function will return.

The diagnosis matters because foot and ankle symptoms can also come from the lower back, another nerve, tendon problems, or circulation issues. A clinician may examine sensation, strength, foot position, and the area behind the ankle before recommending an injection.

Tell the clinician about diabetes, blood-thinning medicine, infection, allergies, and previous reactions. Ask whether the injection is intended as a diagnostic aid, symptom relief, or a bridge to another treatment. Afterward, follow advice about walking and activity, and record changes in tingling, numbness, burning, and foot strength rather than judging the result only by pain.

Reducing pressure from footwear, adjusting activity, treating an underlying cause, and guided physiotherapy may be part of the plan. Persistent nerve compression or progressive nerve changes needs reassessment; an injection should not delay evaluation when function is worsening.

Seek prompt medical advice for new or worsening weakness, increasing numbness, trouble lifting or controlling the foot, or difficulty walking. Contact care urgently for spreading redness, marked warmth, swelling, fever, or feeling unwell after the procedure. Severe allergic symptoms such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty require emergency help.

Ask how the diagnosis was confirmed, where the medicine will be placed, how nerve symptoms will be monitored, and what the plan is if numbness or weakness continues. Ask which activities and footwear changes are appropriate while the nerve settles.