Sinus tarsi syndrome is a lesser-known but often debilitating condition involving pain and instability in the lateral (outer) aspect of the ankle and foot. The sinus tarsi is a small canal between the talus and calcaneus bones that helps stabilize the subtalar joint.
When this space becomes inflamed—usually following ankle sprains or chronic instability—it results in persistent lateral foot pain, tenderness, and a feeling of instability or imbalance.
Common Symptoms
- Deep, aching pain on the outer side of the ankle
- Tenderness when pressing into the sinus tarsi area
- Instability or “rolling” sensation in the ankle
- Pain with uneven surfaces, side-to-side movements, or prolonged standing
- Swelling or stiffness around the subtalar joint
What Causes Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we view sinus tarsi syndrome through the Tissue Stress Modellens. Inflammation here reflects an imbalance between the stabilizing tissue’s capacity and the mechanical forces acting on the subtalar joint.
Common triggers include:
- Repetitive ankle sprains (especially inversion sprains)
- Overpronation or subtalar joint hypermobility
- Flatfoot deformity or poor foot mechanics
- Poor rehabilitation post-injury
- Chronic ligament or capsular irritation in the sinus tarsi canal
How We Diagnose It
Diagnosis includes:
- Detailed history (including prior sprains or instability)
- Physical exam with palpation of the sinus tarsi
- Gait analysis to assess joint mechanics
- In-office ultrasound or MRI (if needed) to visualize inflammation or joint damage
Treatment for Sinus Tarsi Syndrome in Tampa
We focus on calming inflammation, correcting biomechanical overload, and restoring stability:
✅ Offloading & Support:
- Ankle bracing or strapping
- Custom orthotics to control rearfoot motion and limit excess pronation
- Footwear modifications (stability shoes, medial support, lateral control)
✅ Inflammation Management:
- MLS laser therapy
- Ice and oral anti-inflammatories (as needed)
- Cortisone injections (select cases)
✅ Stability & Rehab:
- Proprioception and balance retraining
- Strengthening of peroneals and intrinsic foot stabilizers
- Ankle mobility and motor control drills
✅ Advanced Options (When Needed):
- Shockwave therapy for chronic synovitis or scar tissue
- Wharton’s Jelly injection for degenerative or unresponsive cases
✅ Surgical Referral (Rare)
Surgery is rarely required but may be considered in cases of severe instability, chronic pain, or failed conservative management.
When to Seek Care
If you’ve had a lingering “sprain” that hasn’t healed, or you feel instability and pain on the outside of your ankle, sinus tarsi syndrome could be the culprit. Don’t wait—it responds best when caught early.
Lateral Foot Pain Isn’t Normal—Let’s Fix the Root Cause
At Bayshore Podiatry Center, we take a functional, individualized approach to stabilize your ankle, restore confidence, and eliminate chronic pain. Suspect sinus tarsi syndrome? Book your appointment now and let’s build a plan to get you moving confidently again. Bayshore Podiatry Center — Experts in Ankle Stability and Complex Foot Pain Relief in Tampa
