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What is it?
The sinus tarsi is an important space on the outside of the foot by the ankle, and contains important stabilizing ligaments of the subtalar joint, fat tissue, nerve endings and blood vessels. Sinus tarsi syndrome is most commonly the result of a traumatic ankle injury or recurrent serious ankle sprains. History of injury may result in excessive movement at the subtalar joint, which in turn leads to inflammation in the sinus tarsi space. The result is constant pain at the front and outside of the ankle.
What do people experience?
Sinus tarsi syndrome is characterized by persistent pain at the front and outside of the ankle, but may also include:
- Feeling of instability at the ankle (worse after walking on uneven ground or running activity)
- Pain deep in the ankle, localized at the sinus tarsi space
- Traumatic ankle injury
Risk Factors
Risk factors for sinus tarsi syndrome may include:
- Previous history of serious ankle sprains
- Single traumatic ankle injury
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Gout
- Ankylosing spondylitis
You can reduce symptoms by:
- Avoiding unstable footwear, or inappropriate footwear for the activity
- Continuing with treatment of ankle injuries
- Avoiding high impact activities (basketball, volleyball, jumping sports)
- Avoiding hill running (uphill or downhill)
Options for treatment
There are several conservative options for treating sinus tarsi syndrome, ranging from a simple footwear change to a comprehensive treatment plan.
- Custom foot orthotics
- Physiotherapy
- Balance and proprioceptive training
- Activity modifications
- Strengthening exercises
- Bracing and/ or taping
- Proper footwear
For more information such as how to stay active with pain, check out our injury locator
Still have questions? Contact your SoleScience pedorthist for an individual assessment.
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