Sinus Tarsi Syndrome Treatment

What is sinus tarsi syndrome?

The Sinus Tarsi is a small cavity below the ankle located on the outside of the foot, just below and in front of the ankle bone. The cavity is between the ankle bone (talus) and the heel bone (calcaneus). It has a direct connection to the joint below the ankle that allows the foot to move inwards and outwards, called the Subtalar Joint.

There are important ligaments, nerves, capsule, and fat that are within the sinus tarsi. These structures can become injured following repetitive strain, trauma to the subtalar joint or a foot deformity like a flat foot (pes planus). When this occurs the joint and sinus tarsi can become inflamed and irritated, leading to pain when walking. This is called Sinus Tarsi Syndrome.

Symptoms of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

• Pain over the outside of the ankle

• Swelling over the outside of the ankle

• Tenderness over the outside of the ankle

• Symptoms are typically worse in the morning

• Pain and stiffness that slowly improves as the patient warms up

• Symptoms may also be aggravated during walking or running especially on slopes or uneven surfaces.

• Arthritis of the Subtalar Joint

Causes of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

Sinus tarsi syndrome usually occurs following an ankle sprain or due to the repetitive strain associated with walking or running on an excessively pronated (flat) foot.

• Poor flexibility

• Inappropriate training

• Poor foot biomechanics

• Inappropriate footwear

• Muscle weakness
  Ankle Sprains

• Foot Sprains

• Flat Feet

How is sinus tarsi syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis is achieved by the clinical examination and x-rays of the patient. Dr. Soomekh will listen to the patient’s complaints, symptoms, and goals. The examination involves a hands-on analysis of the patient’s foot and evaluating their gait. Digital radiographs (x-rays) of the feet will be obtained in the office and reviewed with the patient. A specialized CT scan of the foot may be obtained to evaluate the Subtalar Joint and the Sinus Tarsi in 3D to aid in diagnosis.

Sinus Tarsi Syndrome Treatment

TREATMENT IN EARLY STAGES:

• Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

• Anti-Inflammatory Medications

• Supportive Athletic Shoes

• Physical Therapy

• Custom Molded Orthotics

• Cortisone Injection into the Sinus Tarsi

• Walking Boot

TREATMENT IN CHRONIC STAGES:

• Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)

• Stem Cell Therapy

• Surgical Evacuation of the Sinus Tarsi

• Subtalar Joint Surgery by Fusion of the Joint

Dr. Soomekh has perfected and reinvented these surgical procedures and techniques for the treatment of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome and is recognized by his peers as one of the top Sinus Tarsi Syndrome specialists in Beverly Hills and the Los Angeles area

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