Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
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Sunday (By prior appointment)
Medial Plantar Neuropraxia
What is medial plantar neuropraxia?
Medial plantar neuropraxia is a condition caused by chronic (long-term) compression of the medial plantar nerve, which leads to pain in the heel.
The medial plantar nerve passes through the ankle and along the inside of the foot. Neuropraxia refers to compression or entrapment of a nerve. When the medial plantar nerve becomes compressed or entrapped, it results in heel pain — a condition known as medial plantar neuropraxia.
Medial plantar neuropraxia is also commonly referred to as Jogger’s Foot.
How does medial plantar neuropraxia happen?
A muscle called the abductor hallucis runs alongside the medial plantar nerve. Repetitive impact or overuse of this muscle — such as during long-distance running — can cause it to become swollen and inflamed. As the muscle becomes enlarged, it presses against the medial plantar nerve, leading to compression or entrapment. This nerve compression is what produces the heel pain associated with medial plantar neuropraxia (Jogger’s Foot).
Having flat feet can also contribute to this condition. When there is little or no arch on the inside of the foot, the impact from running is absorbed along the inner foot, which can cause the abductor hallucis muscle to become inflamed. This inflammation can then compress the medial plantar nerve and trigger pain.
What are the symptoms of medial plantar neuropraxia?
Symptoms of medial plantar neuropraxia usually develop gradually and may include:
- Burning or tingling sensation in the arch or heel
- Numbness along the inside of the foot
- Pain that worsens with running or prolonged standing
What should I do if I have medial plantar neuropraxia?
If you have, or suspect you have, medial plantar neuropraxia, you should consult a physiotherapist as they can help reduce the pain and prevent the injury from reoccurring. In the meantime, it is best to rest the foot to allow the inflammation to settle and the healing process to begin. You can also apply ice to the inside of the foot — for example, using a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a damp cloth — for 15 to 20 minutes every 1–2 hours.
What shouldn’t I do if I have medial plantar neuropraxia?
If you have, or suspect you have, medial plantar neuropraxia, you should not ignore the problem or continue running through the pain. Doing so may worsen the condition, causing your pain to become more severe and more frequent over time.
Physiotherapy treatment for medial plantar neuropraxia.
Physiotherapy can help relieve symptoms and prevent the problem from returning in the future. Treatment may include:
- Soft tissue massage of the abductor hallucis
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Orthotics or arch supports
- Gait re-education
Could there be any long-term effects from medial plantar neuropraxia?
Most people with medial plantar neuropraxia improve well with physiotherapy treatment and, if they follow the advice provided, will not experience a recurrence. However, if the condition does not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be required. The surgical procedure involves releasing the navicular ligament to create more space for the medial plantar nerve. This relieves the nerve compression, which in turn reduces symptoms.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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