Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

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.

Common Symptoms

• 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.

Common Causes

• 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

Clinical Assessment

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.

Activities That May Aggravate Symptoms

• 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

Non-Surgical Treatment

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

Surgical Treatment

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.

Prognosis

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