Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
Sinus tarsi syndrome is a condition that affects the foot and ankle, often following a bad ankle sprain or multiple ankle sprains. This part of the foot is located where the hindfoot and midfoot connect, between the heel and the ankle. It causes painful inflammation in the subtalar joint, a part of the foot that allows the foot to move from side to side. Sinus tarsi syndrome commonly affects athletes and those with flat feet or a history of ankle sprains.
What Causes Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
- When you twist or hurt your ankle, such as an ankle sprain or other acute injury, it can damage the tissues around the sinus tarsi, causing pain, swelling, and discomfort.
- Obesity, overuse, or repetitive stress on the foot, such as frequent running or jumping, that puts a lot of pressure on your feet, can strain the area over time.
- Poor foot biomechanics, such as flat feet or high arches. If your feet don't have the right shape, it can affect how you walk and put extra stress on the sinus tarsi.
- Inflammation and swelling of the area, causing pain and other problems.
- Arthritis in the foot or ankle can wear down joints and tissues in your foot, affecting the sinus tarsi region as well.
- Instability in the subtalar joint potentially leads to unusual movement patterns that stress the affected area.
- Previous surgery in the foot or ankle area that has altered how these parts function, potentially impacting the sinus tarsi.
How Does Feet Option Podiatry Treat Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
After a comprehensive assessment of your foot and ankle, and once a diagnosis is confirmed, our podiatrists will create a treatment plan to help your ankle recover fully. A treatment plan is tailored entirely to the complexity of your sinus tarsi syndrome, ensuring you receive the best treatment suited to your body and lifestyle. The podiatrist may refer you for an MRI scan to confirm your diagnosis and check for other potential issues. Some treatments you may be prescribed can include:
- Rest and activity changes: Reducing or avoiding activities that cause pain, allowing the affected area to heal.
- Ice therapy: Limiting swelling and pain using ice packs.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Prescribing or recommending over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to decrease inflammation and relieve pain.
- Physical therapy exercises: Designing a programme of specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around the ankle to encourage stability and improve flexibility.
- Custom orthotics or shoe inserts: Creating tailored shoe inserts that provide support and correct foot alignment, reducing strain on the sinus tarsi area.
- Corticosteroid injections: Administering injections directly into the sinus tarsi to reduce inflammation and relieve pain quickly.
- Ankle support or braces: Providing braces or supports to stabilise the ankle, preventing excessive movement that may be aggravating.
- Manual therapy techniques: Using hands-on techniques such as massage or joint mobilisation to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Surgery (in severe cases): Considering surgical intervention when conservative treatments fail, which may involve cleaning out inflamed tissue from the sinus tarsi.
Suspecting You Have Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
If you suspect you have sinus tarsi syndrome, it's essential to limit weight-bearing activities, rest, and elevate your ankle until you can see a podiatrist. If your ankle is swollen, apply ice intermittently to help reduce inflammation and help with pain. Reducing stress on the tendon is key to preventing further injury and kick-starting the healing process. For an accurate diagnosis, treatment, and proper recovery from sinus tarsi syndrome, consult our team of specialist podiatrists.
