Tarsal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through the tarsal tunnel. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space located on the inside of the ankle, containing the tibial nerve which provides feeling to the heel and foot and aids in foot function. Tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause debilitating pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot and ankle and limit ankle and foot mobility and function. Physical therapy can play a critical role in improving the function and mobility of those with tarsal tunnel syndrome through a targeted strengthening, stretching, manual therapy, and nerve gliding treatment program.

After undergoing a total hip replacement and suffering from femoral nerve palsy, Mangiarelli Rehabilitation physical therapy patient Kay has made incredible progress, advancing from walking with a brace with a walker to now walking with a cane! Femoral nerve palsy post-hip replacement involves injury to or compression of the femoral nerve, one of the largest nerves in the leg. A physical therapist can help reduce compression on the femoral nerve and help patients safely regain quadriceps muscle strength, relieve nerve pain, and improve walking ability.

Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when the nerves, arteries, or veins that run between your collarbone and the highest, first rib are pinched or compressed. The most common type is neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), in which weak or tight muscles cause the brachial plexus to be pinched and inflamed, often caused by repetitive overhead activities and heavy lifting. Physical therapy is the first line of treatment for neurogenic TOS, utilizing manual therapy, postural retraining, and targeted strengthening of the scapular muscles to relieve symptoms and improve function.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes in which nerve function is diminished or lost due to uncontrolled, high blood sugar levels. It is commonly experienced in the hands and feet and can cause feelings of numbness and tingling in the affected limbs, a loss or absence of sensation, burning or sharp pain, and increased sensitivity to touch in the affected area. Physical therapy plays a vital role in helping those with peripheral neuropathy improve and maintain function, enhance overall quality of life, and alleviate symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

How do you know whether you’re suffering from a pulled muscle or a pinched nerve? Both a pulled muscle or a pinched nerve may cause severe pain and limit your mobility, function, and ability to complete daily tasks. Being able to ascertain the difference between a pinched nerve and a pulled muscle is critical to ensure you receive the correct treatment and return to your activities quickly and safely.

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. Diabetes is a condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not respond normally to insulin, causing glucose levels in the blood to become too high. In the United States, 34.2 million Americans (1 in 10) have diabetes and 88 million American adults (1 in 3) have pre-diabetes. Physical therapists can help reduce diabetic symptoms and guide diabetic patients through a personalized exercise program, which lowers blood sugar levels and improves mobility.

Muscles and nerves are susceptible to and common sources of injury in the body. Both a pulled muscle or a pinched nerve can cause severe pain and limit an individual’s function and mobility. It is crucial to recognize the difference between a pulled muscle and a pinched nerve in order to seek the proper treatment in a timely manner.