Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

Sinus tarsi syndrome in runners can be one of two sorts of problems. Sinus tarsi syndrome can follow an ankle sprain as a chronic problem. The sinus tarsi is the gap between the talus and calcaneus bones in the rearfoot and the ligaments between them can get strained during an ankle sprain and not get initially noticed and only diagnosed at a later date as the initial injury settles down. This cause of sinus tarsi syndrome is best treated with physical therapy and exercise. The more common cause of sinus tarsi syndrome in runners is a foot that has flatted or pronated to end range of motion at the subtalar joint, so the structures in the sinus tarsi are compressed at end range of motion. This cause of sinus tarsi syndrome is best treated with foot orthotics and motion control running shoes to prevent the joint from going to its end range of motion. In both types of sinus tarsi syndrome, if they are not responsive to treatment can benefit from steroid injections into the area.