Overview
Sinus Tarsi syndrome is a condition where patients suffer with pain on the outer aspect of the ankle and heel. It is assumed to be an uncommon condition. It is often a diagnosis of exclusion. Pain on standing and poor proprioception on walking on uneven surfaces are the symptoms which makes one suspect sinus tarsi syndrome.
Cause of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
In a majority of patients, sinus tarsi syndrome is triggered off post ankle sprains, particularly recurrent ankle sprains. Sinus tarsi is a small cone-shaped tunnel on the outer side of the ankle. This exists between the heel bone and the talus bone (ankle bone). The sprain of the interosseus ligaments in the sinus tarsi area leads to haemorrage and scarring in that area. Inflammation and cyst formation in that area are usually the leading causes of pain.
Occurence of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
It is commonly seen in people between the ages of 30 and 50. It is more common in dancers, obese people. People with flat feet are more prone to suffer from this condition. Sports needing lot of footwork are more prone to sinus tarsi syndrome.
When to seek medical help?
If the pain on the outer aspect of your ankle is bothering you and limiting your activities or running, then better to get it checked. A thorough assessment by an expert Orthopaedic Surgeon is necessary as it is a rare condition and X-ray and MRI reports may not be good enough to make a diagnosis, but a proper clinical correlation does help in making sure that the diagnosis is not missed.
What happens to Sinus Tarsi Syndrome if no treatment is undertaken?
Sinus Tarsi Syndrome can lead to long term pain and limitations in activities. It is less likely to resolve by itself. Rest doesn't improve the condition and symptoms recur as soon as one resumes the activities.
What happens when I visit the Consultant?
You will be asked about the duration and nature of your symptoms. The consultant will examine you and discuss treatment modalities.
What are the treatment Options?
The treatment modalities range from simple foot stretching exercises, footwear modifications to steroid injection to the sinus tarsi area. In some with persistent problems, sinus tarsi debridement surgery becomes necessary.