What Does Leg Numbness and Tingling Feel Like With Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome involves irritation or compression of the tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space beside the inner ankle. You may notice prickling, burning, electric sensations, or reduced feeling in the heel, arch, sole, or toes. Some people describe a tight or swollen feeling even when the foot does not look swollen.

Symptoms can spread into the foot and may become more noticeable after standing, walking, or activity. They may also disturb sleep. The exact area depends on which nerve branches are affected. Numbness and tingling can have other causes, so the pattern, examination, footwear, injuries, and general health all help guide diagnosis.

Notice whether symptoms change with walking, prolonged standing, footwear, ankle position, or rest. Choose comfortable shoes that do not press the inner ankle, and reduce activities that clearly reproduce burning or spreading tingling until you have advice. Arrange an assessment if sensation remains altered, walking becomes uncomfortable, or symptoms are returning often.

A clinician may examine foot sensation, strength, ankle movement, gait, and the area behind the inner ankle. Treatment depends on the cause and may include activity changes, physiotherapy, footwear adjustments, or other measures selected after assessment.

Seek prompt medical care for sudden or rapidly worsening weakness, inability to move the foot, severe swelling or colour change, a cold foot, or numbness after a significant injury. Urgent assessment is also appropriate when symptoms are accompanied by new bladder or bowel problems or numbness around the groin, because those signs may point to a problem higher in the nervous system.

Ask: Does the location fit tibial nerve irritation? Could footwear or an ankle problem be contributing? Should I change activity or use physiotherapy? How will foot strength and sensation be monitored? Which changes need urgent review?