Quick Summary
Burning or tingling into the sole may involve a nerve near the inner ankle. A careful assessment helps identify the cause and when specialist input is needed. Our physiotherapists in New Malden can assess your symptoms and help you choose appropriate next steps for your goals.
Understanding Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The tarsal tunnel is a passage behind the inner ankle through which the tibial nerve travels. Irritation or compression can cause symptoms into the sole or heel. Other problems, including nerve symptoms from the back or more widespread neuropathy, can feel similar.
Assessment at J&J Therapy
We review the symptom pattern, medical history and neurological findings as well as walking and footwear. Progressive weakness, persistent numbness or an unexplained lump may need medical investigation. We do not assume all foot tingling is a local tendon problem.
Image: Nicole Williams, Jake Willet, Damian Clark and David Ketteridge (source; 2019 paper) · CC BY 4.0. Layout and notes added.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- Burning, tingling or altered sensation in the sole of the foot.
- Pain around the inner ankle, sometimes extending into the arch.
- Symptoms aggravated by standing or walking, with possible weakness.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
Why symptoms may develop
Swelling, an injury, changes in foot shape or a space-occupying structure may increase pressure around the nerve. Sometimes the cause is unclear. Diabetes and other health conditions make it especially important to assess sensation and foot health appropriately.
Treatment and rehabilitation options
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Gentle treatment of relevant surrounding restrictions may be considered if it does not provoke nerve symptoms. Deep pressure directly over the tunnel is avoided. Manual therapy cannot reliably remove an underlying cause of nerve compression. We explain the purpose and check your comfort and response throughout treatment.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not a routine treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome. Nerve symptoms require diagnosis and appropriate management, particularly if sensation or strength is deteriorating. Your physiotherapist can explain the more suitable options and how their effect will be reviewed during your ongoing rehabilitation.
Targeted Exercise Programme
Advice may include footwear or support changes, activity modification and carefully selected mobility or strengthening work. Nerve-movement exercises are considered only when suitable and should not worsen tingling. Persistent symptoms may require podiatry, neurology or foot and ankle specialist input.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Seek prompt medical assessment for new or worsening weakness, persistent loss of sensation or an unexplained ankle lump.
- A hot, swollen or wounded foot needs urgent medical advice, especially with diabetes or reduced sensation.
- A suddenly cold, pale or numb foot requires emergency assessment.
Your questions answered
Is this the same as plantar fasciitis?
No. Plantar fasciitis commonly causes heel pain on first steps, while burning or tingling suggests possible nerve involvement. Both can coexist, so the symptoms need assessment.
Should I stretch through the tingling?
No. Repeatedly provoking nerve symptoms is not the aim. Stop an aggravating exercise and seek advice, especially if numbness or weakness is increasing.
Which appointment should I book?
Start with a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or recurring symptoms. We can assess the problem and agree a plan linked to your daily activities. If you have already had medical care or surgery, bring the relevant instructions.
Book a Physiotherapy Assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938. Find J&J Therapy at CI Tower, Ground Floor, New Malden.
Related conditions
Plantar Fasciitis · Morton’s Neuroma
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information only; this page cannot diagnose your symptoms. Treatment is agreed after assessment. For urgent or severe symptoms, use the medical services described above.