Quick answer: Burning Tingling Numbness In Feet Legs Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is a clinical condition that responds to evidence-based treatment when caught early. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and altered function. Diagnosis requires clinical exam, often imaging. Treatment ladder: conservative care first (4-6 weeks), then targeted interventions if needed. Call (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM Β· Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon Β· Last reviewed: April 2026 Β· Editorial Policy
Quick Answer
Burning, Tingling, Numbness in Feet & Legs [Tarsal Tunn relates to foot neuropathy β typically caused by nerve compression or systemic. Most patients improve in varies by cause with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.
β Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist Β· Last updated April 6, 2026
Burning, Tingling, Numbness in Feet & Legs [Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome]
π¦ΆDo you have a painful heel or painful bottom of the foot? Numbness, burning, or tingling in the leg, inside the ankle, and the bottom of the foot? This might be Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome!π¦Ά This video reviews tarsal tunnel syndrome treatment, surgery, exercises, symptoms & More! Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome can manifest as numbness in the bottom of the feet, as well as numbness in the legs and feet. Related Videos: Related Numbness, Burning & Tingling Nerve Pain Videos: Morton’s Neuroma: https://youtu.be/XsQhGOzPggc Ball of the Foot Pain: https://youtu.be/tqOzHZ8rUqs Baxter’s Nerve Heel Pain: https://youtu.be/1ZqubXExmc4 Tarsal Tunnel Inside of the Ankle Pain: https://youtu.be/DoqjV9VR5tA Heel Pain: https://youtu.be/2rrt4xkeBiQ Chapters: 0:00 Numb feet & painful numbness in feet overview 1:10 What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome? 1:50 What causes numbness in the feet? 2:20 Numb feet causes & links 3:00 Foot numbness causes & Why are my toes numb? 4:00 Is foot numbness dangerous? Diabetes & more 4:25 Tarsal tunnel syndrome test 4:57 Podiatrist Treatment for numbness in legs 5:45 Neurologists for numbness in legs and feet 6:20 Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome 7:00 Tarsal Tunnel Surgery 7:40 tarsal tunnel syndrome brace 8:05 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Recovery 8:55 Best Orthotics 9:20 Best Insoles 10:05 Why does my leg & foot feel numb? 11:20 Best Shoes 13:55 tarsal tunnel syndrome exercises 15:50 Massage for leg numbness & foot numbness 16:50 bottom of feet tingling causes 17:20 Massage & pain relief 18:20 Stretches 20:00 Compression socks 23:28 Recovery time π– Shoes –π Best Shoes:Podiatrist Recommended ShoesBest Products: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/recommended-foot-doctor-products/// π– LINKS –π (With some links, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission. Check with your doctor before using any product!) Orthotics: Best Overall Orthotic: https://geni.us/PowerStepOrthotics (Amazon) Best Heavy Duty Orthotic: https://geni.us/HeavyDutyOrthotics (Amazon) Best Women’s Orthotic: https://geni.us/BestWomensOrthotic (Amazon) Best sub $25 Soft Orthotic: https://geni.us/BudgetSoftOrthotic (Amazon) Best sub $25 Budget Orthotic: https://geni.us/BudgetOrthotic (Amazon) Pain Relief: Best Compression Sleeves: https://geni.us/PlantarFasciitisSock (Amazon) Best Budget Compression Ankle Brace: https://geni.us/AnkleCompression (Amazon) Best Muscle Massage Stick: https://geni.us/MuscleStick (Amazon) Exercises & Stretches: Best Ankle Stretch Incline Board: https://geni.us/z7bq (Amazon) Best Budget Stretching Device: https://geni.us/BudgetFasciitisStretch (Amazon) Compression socks & Compression stockings: Note: Start Light & always check with your podiatrist if you have a medical condition. Best 8-15 mmHg budget compression stockings: https://geni.us/NmvRw Best 20-30 mmHg compression stocking: https://geni.us/bqasGh (Amazon) Massage Device: Our Favorite Calf Compression Device https://geni.us/sLJDN Our Favorite Full Leg Compression Device https://geni.us/htyFl Massage Gun: Note: This is for sore, tight muscles, not a cure for lymphedema. My favorite massage gun: https://geni.us/xWf6RJ (Amazon) Best Selling massage gun: https://geni.us/HaFcA (Amazon) Best budget massage gun: https://geni.us/82VZB (Amazon) π’See a Podiatrist!π’ See a podiatrist if you have a specific foot, ankle, or health problem. This information is NOT specific to your medical problem. If in Michigan, consider seeing us at our clinic: https://www.michiganfootdoctors.com/ https://g.page/r/CaxJ9b-O6o27EAE π’Disclaimer:π’ This video and description contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click on one of the product links. Thank you for your support of this channel! This is opinion only: For the viewer or reader: Do not consider this video a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly urge you to contact your physician with any questions regarding your medical condition. If you have an emergency, call 911 immediately or see your physician. Do not allow this information to let you disregard your professional’s medical advice or delay seeking information from this content. Do not rely on information provided by this general education video. Healthcare practitioners: The content here is for education purposes only. The authors have done their best to provide the most up-to-date, evidence-based information, but this content should definitely not be considered any type of medical standard. It does not reflect individual practices in other geographic areas. This is strictly for medical education purposes only, and it is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. The information in these videos is the author’s opinion and is not an official opinion of any organizations that the authors may be a part of. The authors or speakers are not associated with any of the above products.
Peripheral Neuropathy and Foot Nerve Pain: Clinical Care at Balance Foot & Ankle in Michigan
Michigan patients experiencing burning, tingling, numbness, or stabbing foot pain from peripheral neuropathy deserve clinical evaluation that goes beyond lifestyle modifications and supplements. At Balance Foot & Ankle, peripheral neuropathy evaluation includes a thorough lower extremity neurological examination, monofilament and vibratory threshold testing to quantify sensory loss, and coordination with neurology or primary care for electrodiagnostic testing (nerve conduction studies and EMG) when the cause of neuropathy is unclear. For patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy — the most common cause of foot neuropathy in our Michigan patient population — we focus on protective footwear, ulcer risk stratification, and regular surveillance examinations to prevent the wound complications that diabetic neuropathy enables. For patients with compressive neuropathies (tarsal tunnel syndrome, Morton's neuroma, common peroneal nerve entrapment) that are treatable with podiatric intervention, we provide definitive diagnosis and treatment rather than long-term symptom management. Michigan patients with foot neuropathy symptoms can call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule at our Howell or Bloomfield Township office.
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Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
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Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
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Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your AppointmentIn-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
When conservative care isnβt enough, Dr. Tom Biernacki and the team at Balance Foot & Ankle offer advanced, same-day options β including Tarsal Tunnel Release Michigan at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics.
Same-day appointments available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.
Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- β Conservative care first
- β Same-week appointments
- β Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- β Self-treatment can mask issues
- β See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today β Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM Β· Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM Β· Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS Β· Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 Β· 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Hours: MonβFri 8:00 AM β 5:00 PM Β· (810) 206-1402
Dr. Hoy’s Complete Pain Relief Line β Dr. Tom’s Picks (2026)
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief is Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM’s #1 prescription topical pain relief for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, foot pain, knee pain, and back pain. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze β safe for diabetics + daily long-term use without 30-day limits. Below is the complete Dr. Hoy’s product line, organized by use case.
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel (4oz Tube)Dr. Tom’s #1 Brand
The flagship Dr. Hoy’s β menthol-based natural pain relief gel. The bottle Dr. Tom hands every plantar fasciitis patient on visit one. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief 5-10 min
- Daily long-term use safe
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
Top 10 Premade Orthotics β Dr. Tom’s Picks (2026)
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM has tested 60+ over-the-counter orthotic insoles in his Michigan podiatry practice over the past 15 years. Below are the top 10 he prescribes most often β ranked by clinical results, build quality, and patient feedback. PowerStep + CURREX brands are Dr. Tom’s #1 prescription brands β built by podiatrists, with biomechanical features (lateral wedge, deep heel cradle, dual-density EVA) that 90% of OTC insoles lack.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
The most prescribed OTC orthotic in podiatry. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of plantar fasciitis. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle
- Dual-density EVA
- Trim-to-fit
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim required
- 5-7 day break-in
PowerStep Original Full LengthDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
The original PowerStep β flexible semi-rigid arch with deep heel cradle. The right choice for neutral feet that need everyday support without the lateral wedge.
- Flexible semi-rigid arch
- Deep heel cradle
- Fits dress shoes
- 30-day guarantee
- APMA-accepted
- Less aggressive than Pinnacle
- No lateral wedge for overpronation
PowerStep Pulse MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Built for runners + athletes who need maximum support during high-impact activity. Engineered for forefoot strike + lateral motion.
- Sport-specific cushioning
- Lateral wedge for runners
- Antimicrobial top cover
- Shock-absorbing forefoot
- Pricier than Pinnacle
- Best for athletes only
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
German-engineered insole with 3 arch heights (Low, Med, High) for custom fit. Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel
- Sport-specific zones
- Premium materials
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
CURREX EdgeProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
For hikers, skiers, and high-impact athletes β reinforced shank prevents foot fatigue on steep descents + uneven terrain.
- Reinforced shank
- 3 arch heights
- Cold-weather friendly
- Carbon plate
- Stiff feel β not for casual
- Pricier
CURREX SupportSTPDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
For nurses, retail, and standing professions β the most supportive CURREX with deep heel cup + maximum medial support.
- Maximum medial support
- Deep heel cup
- 12-hour shift tested
- Slip-proof
- Stiffest CURREX option
- Pricier
Superfeet Green
Firm, structured arch support β the right choice ONLY for high-arched (cavus) feet. Wrong choice for flat feet.
- Strong structured arch
- Deep heel cup
- Long-lasting (5+ years)
- Firm β not for flat feet
- No lateral wedge
Vionic OrthoHeel Active Insole
APMA-accepted, podiatrist-designed casual insole. Best for adding mild arch support to dress shoes + walking shoes.
- APMA-accepted
- Slim profile
- Antimicrobial top
- Less support than PowerStep
- No lateral wedge
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 β The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one β over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
- Dual-density EVA β comfort + support
- Trim-to-fit any shoe
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim-to-size required
- 5-7 day break-in for some
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot β the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel cup
- Dynamic forefoot zone
- Premium German engineering
- Sport-specific support
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Menthol-based natural pain relief β Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief β 5-10 minutes
- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
When to See a Podiatrist for This Type of Pain
If your pain has lasted longer than 3-4 weeks despite home treatment, is interfering with daily activities, or includes redness, swelling, or warmth, it’s time to schedule an evaluation. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Tom Biernacki and his team specialize in same-day diagnosis and conservative treatment plans tailored to your activity level and goals. Most patients are walking pain-free within 4-6 weeks of starting our protocol.
Red flags that warrant immediate care: sharp pain after a fall, inability to bear weight, visible deformity, numbness or tingling, fever with foot pain, or any open wound on a diabetic foot. Don’t wait β early treatment dramatically improves outcomes and prevents chronic complications.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402
Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel
Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula β apply directly to the area 3β4x daily. ($20β25)
Shop Doctor Hoy’s →Get Expert Care at Balance Foot & Ankle
Same-week appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Township offices. Board-certified podiatric surgeons. Most insurance accepted.
Same-Week Appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township
Three board-certified podiatric surgeons. 1,123+ five-star reviews. Most insurance accepted.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.
More questions patients ask
How is tarsal tunnel syndrome different from plantar fasciitis?
Key differences: Plantar fasciitis causes sharp, stabbing heel pain worst with first steps in the morning, improving with walking. Tarsal tunnel syndrome causes burning, tingling, and numbness that is more diffuse on the sole, often constant or worsened with standing, and frequently accompanied by inner ankle pain (at the tunnel location). Tarsal tunnel may include a positive Tinel's sign (tapping the nerve behind the inner ankle reproduces symptoms). Nerve conduction studies (NCS) confirm tarsal tunnel. Both conditions can coexist. At Balance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists accurately differentiate these conditions β call (810) 206-1402.
What causes tarsal tunnel syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops from anything that compresses the nerve within the tunnel: flat feet (excessive pronation stretches the nerve), ankle swelling (from sprain, fracture, varicose veins, or systemic disease), space-occupying lesions (ganglion cysts, bone spurs, accessory navicular bones, lipomas within the tunnel), post-traumatic scarring, diabetes (contributing to nerve vulnerability), and hypothyroidism (nerve swelling). Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is essential for effective treatment. At Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Township, we evaluate all structural and systemic contributors to tarsal tunnel syndrome β call (810) 206-1402.
How is tarsal tunnel syndrome treated?
Conservative tarsal tunnel treatment: custom orthotics to control pronation and reduce nerve stretch, ankle bracing, anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs or corticosteroid injection), physical therapy, and activity modification. For systemic causes (hypothyroidism, diabetes) β treating the underlying condition often improves symptoms. If conservative care fails after 3β6 months, surgical tarsal tunnel release (decompression of the flexor retinaculum) provides good results in 80β90% of properly selected patients. At Balance Foot & Ankle, Dr. Tom Biernacki DPM, Dr. Carl Jay DPM, and Dr. Daria Gutkin DPM provide both conservative and surgical tarsal tunnel care β call (810) 206-1402.
Can tarsal tunnel syndrome be cured?
Yes β tarsal tunnel syndrome is highly treatable and often curable. When caused by a structural issue (flat feet, bone spur, cyst), addressing the cause through orthotics or surgery produces excellent results. Post-traumatic tarsal tunnel from ankle swelling often resolves as swelling subsides. Nerve conduction studies help determine the severity of nerve damage β mild compression responds well to conservative care; more advanced cases may need surgery. Early treatment before permanent nerve damage occurs produces the best outcomes. Balance Foot & Ankle, serving Howell and Bloomfield Township, MI, provides comprehensive tarsal tunnel evaluation and treatment β call (810) 206-1402.
Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.