Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment: causes, symptoms and treatment

Updated 4/7/2022
Baxter's Neuritis or Heal Nerve Entrapment

What's Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment?

 

Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment (Baxter’s Neuritis)  results when the branch of the tarsal tunnel nerves becomes trapped or scarred in the arch. This relatively common cause of heel pain's also known as Baxter’s Neuritis.

 

About 20% of the time patients come to us having been misdiagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis when they actually suffer from Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment (a pinched nerve in their ankle).

How we Test Nerve Pain Entrapment

A proper diagnosis of the cause of heel pain is essential when developing an accurate diagnosis. Our clinicians utilize cutting-edge technologies for exacting results.

 

University Foot and Ankle Institute performs neurosensory testing to check for nerve compression and ultrasound testing to reveal plantar fascia problems — prior to surgical care and diagnosis.

 

Conservative Care Options for Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment

Conservative care will often include a cortisone injection about the nerve, physical therapy, and possible bracing for a period of time. custom insoles called orthotics are often used to relieve the pain along the problematic nerve.

 

Cryotherapy is an out-patient method using extreme cold to remove Baxter’s nerve, is sometimes used as a treatment to improve nerve pain symptoms without surgery.  A 2-millimeter incision is made and the cryoprobe is used to freeze the damaged nerve under local anesthesia.  A shoe may be worn after about 3 days and a full return to activity can take 2 weeks.  It may be necessary to repeat the procedure an additional time for the ideal outcome in about 30% of cases.

 

All aspects of conservative care are attempted prior to surgical care consideration.

 

Surgical Options for Heel Nerve Pain

The surgical release of the nerve is commonly necessary if pain continues. The surgical procedure is done in an outpatient setting with a fairly rapid recovery. The nerve is freed up as part of a more comprehensive fascia and nerve release.  Patients are not allowed to put weight on the foot for about two weeks and then physical therapy is begun.  The results of the procedure have been excellent when patient selection and workup have been properly done.

 

UFAI's Experience Can Quickly Resolve Nerve Pain

The advanced care provided by the University Foot and Ankle Institute is second to none. We are one of only a few international practices whose Podiatrists and surgeons have the experience in neurosensory testing and ultrasound uses combined in the diagnosis and treatment of nerve entrapments of the ankle and heel.

 

We pride ourselves on dealing with our patients in a timely and personable manner. Request an appointment with a physician at one of our Los Angeles or Southern California locations.

17,899 Total 1st Party Reviews / 4.9 out of 5 Stars
  • Google
    I am an avid runner but had a foot injury that made even walking excruciatingly painful. I went to University Foot and Ankle In...
    Christie C.
  • GatherUp
    I’m always pleased with the care I receive. I’m always seen promptly. I have never had to wait to be seen by the doctor.
    Joann P.
  • GatherUp
    The doctor explained everything about the surgery I will eventually need and was very honest about what the recovery would look...
    Andrea L.
  • GatherUp
    Excellent on all aspects!
    Jonathan H.
  • Yelp
    I had foot surgery here in November 2014 with Dr. Baravarian and as far as surgeries go, it was a pleasant experience. The staf...
    Akela C.
  • GatherUp
    It was a great experience overall!
    Stephen A.
  • Google
    Dr. Jafary is an excellent doctor who is very caring about his patients. He makes himself available if we have any questions. T...
    Maria R.
  • GatherUp
    I was well taken care of. This was my second visit for the same problem. Now it’s finished.
    Dawn M.
  • GatherUp
    Other than the company decided to vacate the office near me, which is an enormous inconvenience, I am very happy with Dr. Brisk...
    Virginia R.
  • GatherUp
    Very good
    Carl J.
  • GatherUp
    Bien aunque aveces me gustaría que se detallara y expliqué exactamente la condición que se encontró y detalles
    Jaime G.
  • GatherUp
    Dr. Bavarian is great and very knowledgeable
    Matthew M.
Same Day Appointments
Now Available!

Or call 877-989-9110

24 hours a day, 7 days a week