When to worry about heel pain with tarsal tunnel syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome involves irritation or compression of a nerve as it passes near the inner ankle. Heel pain may occur with burning, tingling, electric sensations, altered feeling, or symptoms that travel into the sole. Pain that is spreading, becoming more frequent, disturbing sleep, or accompanied by weakness can indicate that the nerve needs reassessment.

Choose footwear that does not press on the inner ankle and reduce activities that reliably trigger symptoms. Avoid prolonged positions that worsen tingling, and record the affected area, timing, triggers, and any change in balance or strength. Do not begin forceful stretches or exercises for nerve pain without individual guidance.

Arrange a review if symptoms persist, limit walking, disturb sleep, or do not improve with activity changes. Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing numbness, new weakness, loss of balance, inability to move the foot normally, or a foot that becomes cold or changes colour. Severe swelling, injury, fever, or spreading redness also requires prompt attention.

Ask which nerve signs need monitoring, whether footwear or another treatment should change, whether testing is appropriate, and how to protect strength and sensation.