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Sinus Tarsi Syndrome Treatment

Sinus tarsi syndrome, also known as STS, is a pain condition involving the sinus tarsi bone canal located between the ankle and heel. The condition normally occurs after an ankle sprain or pronation of the foot, which is a rolling inward of the foot over a period of time. Treatments are available to relieve painful symptoms.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of sinus tarsi syndrome includes pain and tenderness on the tiny bit of bone sticking out from the ankle. Other symptoms may include swelling in the ankle area, difficulty walking on uneven surfaces such as gravel or grass and intense pain after exercise.

    Diagnosis

    • X-rays may be taken, but cannot confirm diagnosis of STS. A CT or MRI scan shows in-depth imaging of the ankle area and reveals damage to the sinus tarsi bone and tissue damage.

    Treatment

    • Treatment will begin with rest from exercise activities. Ice may be applied to the swollen area for five to 10 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen may be recommended. Electrotherapy using ultrasound can reduce pain and inflammation. As healing progresses exercise will be introduced to strengthen muscles and provide support to the sinus tarsi bone. Correction shoes may be necessary when pronation is causing the STS.

    Other Treatments

    • When conservative efforts fail to bring relief, other treatments may be offered. Corticosteroid injections into the ankle area provide fast relief from pain and inflammation. Orthotics provided by your foot specialist helps with pronation of the foot. Surgery is a last resort and is a rare treatment for STS, but is provided if needed. Surgery is performed through either an open incision or through a closed surgery with arthroscopy to mend damage to the sinus tarsi bone and surrounding tissue.

    Solutions

    • Sinus tarsi syndrome is a painful disorder that is brought about by an inward turning of the foot or by ankle sprains. Pronation can be corrected through exercise, corrective shoes and orthotics. When running or walking for exercise, do so on a flat surface as uneven surfaces may cause injury to the ankle. See your doctor if ankle pain becomes intense or chronic.

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