Treatment Of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
The initial treatment can be abbreviated as PRICE – Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
The patient may have a painful limp, so the patient needs to be rested from complete weight-bearing activities.
Ice can be applied to reduce pain and swelling. Apply for 10-15 minutes every 3 to 4 hours during the initial inflammatory phase.
Anti-inflammatory medication may help reduce pain and swelling. Supportive crepe bandage can be applied to restrict ankle movement.
Other helpful physiotherapy modalities and techniques can be used to reduce pain.
Mobilization of the joints of the ankle and foot especially the subtalar joint is an important part of treatment. A specialized manual therapist should be able to mobilizations the foot and ankle joint appropriately for sinus tarsi syndrome.
Correction of biomechanical problems such as overpronation should be done. This may help relieve the narrowing of the sinus tarsi canal. An orthotic insole to correct biomechanical foot problems may be needed. It is important to have correct supportive running shoes.
Stretching and strengthening exercises for the ankle to normalize the muscle balance around the ankle are very important to regain complete range and strength of the ankle.
Proprioceptive and balance exercises on a wobble board to enhance the joint sense of the patient. If an individual/ athlete has been out of training because of the injured ankle then the proprioception or coordination of the ankle will be disrupted. Balancing exercises and using a wobble board can strengthen the proprioception and reduce the chances of re-injury.