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=Preventative Strategies=

Braces and Proper footwear
The exact cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) can vary from patient to patient. However the same end result is true for all patients, the compression of the posterior tibial nerve and it branches  as it travels around the medial malleolus causes pain and irritation for the patient. There are many possible causes for compression of the tibial nerve therefore there are a variety of prevention strategies. One being immobilization, by placing the foot in a neutral position with a brace, pressure is relieved from the tibial nerve thus reducing patients pain. Eversion, inversion, and plantarflexion (as seen in figure 1) all can cause compression of the tibial nerve therefore in the neutral position the tibial nerve is less agitated. Typically this is recommended for the patient to do while sleeping(see figure 2). Another common problem is improper footwear, having shoes deforming the foot due to being too tight can lead to increased pressure on the tibial nerve. Having footwear that tightens the foot for extended periods of time even will lead to TTS. Therefore by simply having properly fitted shoes TTS can be prevented.

Athletic Activities
The athletic population tends to put themselves at greater risk of TTS due to the participation in sports that involve the lower extremities. Strenuous activities involved in athletic activities put extra stain on the ankle and therefore can lead to the compression of the tibial nerve. Activities that especially involve sprinting and jumping have a greater risk of developing TTS. This is due to the ankle being put in eversion, inversion, and plantarflexion at high velocities. Examples of sports that can lead to TTS include basketball, track, soccer, lacrosse, and volleyball. Participation in these sports should be done cautiously due to the high risk of developing TTS. However athletes will tend to continue to participate in these activities therefore proper stretching, especially in lower extremities, prior to participation can assist in the prevention of developing TTS.