Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

The Sinus Tarsi is a small cavityon the outside of the ankle that is filled with soft tissue structures such as ligaments, muscles, nerves, blood vessels and fat that can be injured by an ankle sprain.

Patients present with pain, generally having a feeling of instability and aggravation by weight bearing activities such as standing, walking or running especially on slopes and uneven surfaces, swelling over the outside of the ankle, pain in the form of a sharp pinching when the foot is lifted up, pain being at its worst in the morning and stiffness that slowly improves as the patient warms up.

Common causes are following an ankle sprain or due to the repetitive strain associated with over pronation (rolling ankle in) when walking or running on an excessively pronated (rolling in of ankles) leading to tearing and pinching of the soft tissues within the sinus tarsi.

At Mint Foot Care Podiatry, we diagnose this condition by taking a comprehensive history, performing a biomechanical assessment and video gait analysis. The podiatrist may prescribe diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or an ultrasound.

Based on the findings a combination of treatment options may be prescribed including:

• Rest and Ice – keeping off the foot and reducing activity prevents further injury and encourages healing. Ice can reduce inflammation, swelling and symptoms.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication – help reduce the pain and inflammation such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
• Footwear recommendations.
• Custom made orthotic therapy.
• Ultrasound therapy.
• Prescribed strengthening exercises.

It is important to see a podiatrist as treatment for Sinus Tarsi Syndrome should not be delayed, as the rate of healing slows significantly when the injury becomes chronic.