If you’ve been experiencing pain and discomfort in the outer side of your ankle, especially during weight-bearing activities or after an injury, you might be dealing with STS. But fret not, because Dr Bilal from the Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic is here to shed light on this issue and introduce you to an effective treatment option: prolotherapy.
What is Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
Sinus Tarsi Syndrome refers to inflammation or injury to the sinus tarsi, a small cavity located between the talus bone and the calcaneus bone in the ankle. This condition often arises from overuse, trauma, or instability of the ankle joint.
What are the symptoms of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
- Pain and tenderness on the outer side of the ankle
- Swelling and stiffness in the ankle joint
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
- Pain exacerbated by activities like walking on uneven surfaces or standing for prolonged periods.
How to diagnose Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?
Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a podiatrist, which may include physical examination, imaging studies like X-rays or MRI, and assessment of your medical history.
What is Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy, also known as regenerative injection therapy, is a non-surgical treatment option gaining popularity for various musculoskeletal conditions, including STS. This procedure involves injecting a solution, often a mixture of dextrose (sugar water) and a local anaesthetic, into the affected area. The goal of prolotherapy is to stimulate the body’s natural healing response, leading to tissue repair and strengthening of ligaments and tendons.
How Prolotherapy Helps with STS:
In the case of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome, prolotherapy injections target the ligaments and soft tissues surrounding the sinus tarsi. By triggering inflammation at the site of injury, prolotherapy stimulates the production of collagen and other healing factors, promoting tissue repair and stability in the ankle joint. Over time, this can lead to reduced pain, improved function, and a faster return to activities.
Benefits of Prolotherapy for STS:
Non-surgical approach: Prolotherapy offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for managing STS, reducing the risks and downtime associated with more invasive procedures.
Targeted treatment: By directly addressing the underlying ligamentous instability in the sinus tarsi, prolotherapy aims to provide long-lasting relief from STS symptoms.
Potential for tissue regeneration: Prolotherapy promotes the regeneration of damaged tissues, potentially restoring strength and function to the ankle joint.
What to Expect During Prolotherapy Treatment:
Your journey with prolotherapy for STS will typically involve multiple treatment sessions spaced several weeks apart. The number of sessions required depends on the severity of your condition and your body’s response to the injections.
After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days. It’s essential to follow your podiatrist’s post-treatment instructions, which may include activity modifications and gentle rehabilitation exercises to support the healing process.
Is Prolotherapy Right for You?
Prolotherapy can be a valuable treatment option for individuals struggling with Sinus Tarsi Syndrome, especially those who have not found relief with conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, or orthotics. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified podiatrist to determine if prolotherapy is suitable for your specific needs and medical history.
At Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic, Dr Bilal Khelladi is dedicated to providing personalized care and innovative solutions for foot and ankle conditions like STS. If you’re ready to take the next step towards pain relief and improved mobility, schedule a consultation with us today.
Remember, your feet are the foundation of your body, so don’t let Sinus Tarsi Syndrome hold you back from living your best life. With the right treatment approach, you can get back on your feet and back to doing the activities you love. Stay tuned for more insightful articles from Bankstown Podiatry and Injury Clinic, your trusted partner in foot health and wellness.