What does heel pain feel like with tarsal tunnel syndrome?

Heel Pain is a common presentation of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Because the condition involves pressure or irritation around a nerve near the inner ankle, the feeling may differ from a simple bruise or muscle ache. You might notice burning in the heel, pins and needles in the sole, brief electric shocks, or reduced sensation. Symptoms can travel toward the arch or toes and may become more noticeable after standing or walking. Some people feel sensitivity when the inner ankle is touched, while others mainly notice altered sensation.

Keep a record of when the burning, tingling, or numbness appears and whether footwear or prolonged standing changes it. Choose shoes with enough room and avoid activities that clearly reproduce symptoms. Do not ignore worsening numbness or weakness. A clinician can assess ankle and foot movement, sensation, strength, and possible sources of nerve pressure, then discuss options such as activity changes, physiotherapy, or other treatment.

Arrange an assessment when nerve symptoms persist, spread, disturb sleep, or affect balance and walking. Seek prompt care for new foot weakness, difficulty lifting the foot, rapidly increasing numbness, severe swelling, a hot red foot, or loss of normal colour. These changes require examination rather than self-treatment alone.

Could the burning or altered sensation be coming from the tarsal tunnel or from another nerve? What examination or testing is useful? Which shoes, activities, exercises, and warning signs should guide my next steps?