Sinus Tarsi Syndrome is a condition that causes pain on the outside of the ankle, in a small space between the ankle bone and heel bone. It often develops after an ankle sprain, repeated strain, or excessive rolling in of the foot.
Pain on the outside of the ankle
Tenderness when pressing the area
Feeling of instability on uneven ground
Discomfort when running or jumping
Pain when walking downhill or descending slopes
Pain after prolonged sitting with the legs folded underneath the body or in a cross-legged position
Symptoms that worsen after sport or prolonged activity
Many people can walk normally but notice pain during more demanding activities.
Previous ankle sprains
Recurrent ankle injuries
Flat feet or excessive pronation
Running and jumping sports
Overuse of the foot and ankle
Inflammatory or arthritic conditions
Your clinician may assess:
Previous ankle injuries
Foot posture and walking pattern
Ankle and subtalar joint movement
Balance and stability
Areas of tenderness around the ankle
Imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI may occasionally be required.
Running
Jumping
Walking on uneven ground
Walking downhill or descending slopes
Cutting and pivoting movements in sport
Prolonged standing
Prolonged sitting with the legs folded underneath the body or cross-legged
Most people improve with conservative treatment:
Activity modification
Supportive footwear
Gait modification
Stretching Achilles
Foot orthoses (if needed)
Ankle bracing or taping (if needed)
Strengthening and balance exercises
Anti-inflammatory cream (if needed)
Corticosteroid injection in selected cases
Surgery is rarely required. However, it may be considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative treatment or when significant injury to the stabilizing ligaments of the sinus tarsi results in ongoing ankle or subtalar joint instability.
With appropriate treatment, most people experience significant improvement and can return to their normal activities and sport.
If you have persistent pain on the outside of your ankle, a professional assessment may help identify the cause and guide treatment.
POD11 Podiatry