Tarsal Tunnel Surgery in Wake County
What is Tarsal Tunnel Surgery?
Tarsal tunnel surgery, also known as tarsal tunnel release, is a foot and ankle procedure meant to relieve pressure on the tibial nerve. Nerve pressure in this area is often caused by flat feet, scar tissue from previous injuries, or bony growths (spurs). Tarsal tunnel surgery is typically used to treat severe or chronic tarsal tunnel syndrome by alleviating pain, numbness, and tingling while also improving blood flow. The procedure involves cutting the ligament that protects the tunnel to decompress the nerve. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we prioritize nonsurgical treatment techniques whenever possible, but if conservative treatment fails to relieve your symptoms, surgery may be recommended. If tarsal tunnel surgery is the best next step, your care team will ensure that you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way. Learn more about tarsal tunnel surgery from our NC team below.
When is Tarsal Tunnel Surgery Needed?
Tarsal tunnel surgery is needed when conservative treatments (physical therapy, orthotics, injections, etc) do not alleviate symptoms of pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness. While results of conservative treatment take time, three to six months of unsuccessful conservative care may lead your orthopedic specialist to recommend surgery. This is especially true when pain and numbness have a significant impact on your daily life. Indications for surgery include:
- Unsuccessful conservative care: Symptoms do not improve or resolve despite rest, immobilization, orthotics, or anti-inflammatory treatments.
- Visible mass or obstruction: A cyst, bone spur, or varicose vein is compressing the tibial nerve and contributing to symptoms.Â
- Progressive neurological symptoms: Increasing numbness, burning, or weakness in the foot that interferes with daily activities or balance.
- Failed injection therapy: Temporary relief from corticosteroid injections no longer provides adequate symptom control.
Benefits of Tarsal Tunnel Surgery
Tarsal tunnel surgery can provide lasting relief when nonsurgical options fall short. Understanding the benefits of surgery can go a long way in increasing confidence and helping patients take the right next step. Benefits of this procedure include:
- Significant reduction or elimination of foot pain, burning, and tingling
- Improved sensation and muscle function in the affected foot
- Prevention of permanent nerve damage from chronic compression
- Enhanced ability to walk, stand, and perform normal activities
Tarsal Tunnel Surgery at Raleigh Orthopaedic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic, our foot and ankle specialists use precise, patient-focused techniques to perform tarsal tunnel release. We are here to answer your questions and address any concerns you have throughout your entire treatment process and beyond.
Before your procedure, your surgeon will review your medical history, imaging results, and current symptoms. You may be asked to stop certain medications (such as blood thinners) and arrange for help at home to support a smooth recovery process. You will receive clear instructions on fasting and what to expect on the day of surgery so you can feel as prepared as possible.Â
Tarsal tunnel surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis under regional or general anesthesia. Your surgeon makes a small incision on the inner side of the ankle, and then carefully releases the flexor retinaculum (the ligament that forms the roof of the tarsal tunnel). This decompresses the tibial nerve and relieves associated pressure. If a cyst or other mass is present, it may be removed as well. The incision is then closed with sutures, and a sterile bandage or soft splint is applied.
You’ll recover in a monitored setting before going home the same day. Expect some swelling and discomfort, which you can manage with ice, elevation, and prescribed medication. You will likely wear a walking boot and use crutches for the first few weeks of recovery. Sutures are removed after 10 to 14 days. Your care team will provide a home exercise plan and schedule follow-up visits to monitor nerve healing and guide your return to normal activities.
How Long Does Recovery from Tarsal Tunnel Surgery Take?
Most patients require six to eight weeks for initial recovery, with a gradual return to full activity. You may transition from a boot to supportive shoes around four weeks post-op. Full nerve healing and symptom relief can continue for several months. Many patients return to desk work within a few days, while jobs requiring standing or walking may take six weeks or more. Closely following your surgeon’s instructions is key to a successful recovery.
Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic
Our foot and ankle team at Raleigh Orthopaedic includes fellowship-trained surgeons with extensive experience in nerve decompression procedures like tarsal tunnel release. They specialize in diagnosing and treating complex foot and ankle conditions using both conservative and surgical approaches. They also work closely with our in-house physical therapists to ensure the best possible outcome, close to home in Wake County.
Personalized Foot and Ankle Care in NC at Raleigh Orthopaedic
If foot pain, numbness, or tingling is limiting your daily life, don’t wait to get the relief you deserve. At Raleigh Orthopaedic, we create personalized care plans for patients of all ages, starting with the least invasive options and progressing to surgery only when necessary. From your first appointment through recovery, you’ll have a dedicated, compassionate team by your side. Foot and ankle care is provided at our offices in Cary, Garner, Holly Springs, Raleigh, Wakefield, and West Cary-Panther Creek. Request an appointment with one of our Wake County foot and ankle specialists today to take the first step toward lasting relief.