What is sinus tarsi syndrome

Ankle sprains are a common problem and can put people out of action for several weeks. The most common ankle sprain is when you roll outwards at the ankle joint and sprain or tear the ligaments on the outside of the joint. Good rehabilitation means that there should be an immediate application of ice and the ankle immobilised in some sort of splint or walking brace. After that gentle exercises are encouraged to gradually rehabilitate the ankle back to full strength and full participation in sporting activity.

However, things do not always go to plan and the rehabilitation can often be less than desirable. This may be because more damage than just a strain to the ligaments is done and is missed because of all the initial pain and swelling from the ankle sprain. One particular condition that can cause ongoing problems is sinus tarsi syndrome. The sinus tarsi is a gap between two bones in the ankle and rearfoot part of the foot. The ligaments between these bones can also get strained during an ankle sprain and not get initially diagnosed. Sinus tarsi syndrome only tends to get diagnosed later when the pain of the ankle sprain is not getting better as well as it should be.

Treatment of sinus tarsi syndrome due to an ankle sprain is usually with manipulation and mobilisation by an experiences clinician. Sometimes injections are needed into the space between the bones to help break down any scar tissue and facilitate the healing process.

Please seek medical advice if you think you have this condition.