Sinus Tarsi Syndrome Treatment Oakville

At our Oakville Chiropractic and Physiotherapy clinic, we have been successfully treating Sinus Tarsi Syndrome for over 17 years. If you’re dealing with foot pain, especially around the outside of your foot, we can help! Our team is highly experienced in treating foot pain and Sinus Tarsi Syndrome, and we are committed to helping you get back to feeling “normal” again.

What is Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?

Sinus Tarsi Syndrome involves swelling or pain on the outer part of the foot, often accompanied by visible swelling around the joint. Vinaya, our Oakville Physiotherapist says “Sinus Tarsi Syndrome occurs when the sinus tarsi, a gap or tunnel between the bones in your ankle, fills with fluid and becomes painful”. If you’re experiencing this, it’s important to wear supportive shoes—even when at home—to aid in your recovery.

What causes Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?

Majority of the patients Dr. Steve treats at our Oakville clinic have either a severely dropped arch, flat feet or chronic ankle/foot injuries. Dr. Steve says “Your joints get stuck together with a vacuum pressure within your body. As the fluid increases in the sinus tarsi it increases the pressure of the tarsi joint”. This causes the foot to feel stuck and the bones of your lower leg and foot to be too close together. This is why Dr. Steve says that a proper ankle adjustment is imperative to cure Sinus Tarsi Syndrome.

 

Sinus Tarsi Anatomy Video:

What Is The Best Treatment For Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

At our Oakville clinic, our chiropractors and physiotherapists take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to treating Sinus Tarsi Syndrome. This begins with an accurate diagnosis and the development of a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Dr. Steve has unintentionally become one of the leading experts in treating Sinus Tarsi Syndrome in Southern Ontario, providing exceptional care for patients experiencing this condition. Treatment typically includes a combination of advanced techniques such as Suction Interferential Current Therapy (IFC), Shockwave Therapy using a DS20-T Storz Transmitter Head, Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Therapy, Active Release Therapy (ART), and precise manual ankle adjustments.

By utilizing these state-of-the-art treatment modalities, our skilled healthcare professionals optimize recovery, reduce pain, and restore proper function, helping patients return to their daily activities as quickly as possible.

Sinus Tarsi Treatment Video:

What Our Patients Are saying

  • I have had the pleasure of working with Vinaya at Nottinghill Family Wellness Centre over the last five months, and I can’t recommend her highly enough! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Vinaya took the time to listen to my concerns and thoroughly assessed... read more

    Jeff Barbosa Avatar Jeff Barbosa
    October 7, 2024

    Dr. Jenn and staff were amazing! Feeling a lot better these days.

    Cody Craig Avatar Cody Craig
    July 7, 2024

    I had a neck injury, and they booked me in on the same day! Steve knew right away what to do and set out a plan to get me back to normal. Steve and the team are amazing :)

    Lucija Paric Avatar Lucija Paric
    February 6, 2025
  • Great staff , very welcoming and knowledgeable

    Heidi Bedard Avatar Heidi Bedard
    July 7, 2024

    Dr.Jenn is a very caring and skilled chiropractor. She has a gentle yet highly effective touch. I have been to her for two separate issues and both have resolved nicely. I would highly recommend her to anyone. The clinic staff are very friendly and helpful as well.

    Sandra Chiang Avatar Sandra Chiang
    June 7, 2024

    Dr. Steve was amazing! He listened to my issues & addressed them according. He was friendly and empathetic.

    Sabrina Hasan Avatar Sabrina Hasan
    August 7, 2024
  • I had a great experience with Dr. Steve and his team! Dr. Steve is very knowledgeable, and the whole team is welcoming and professional. After my visits, my elbow pain is now mostly relieved. Highly recommend their care!

    Li Li Avatar Li Li
    November 7, 2024

    Dr Steve is friendly, efficient and above all knowledgeable. He’s helped with my plantar fasciitis and is now moving on to my tennis elbow! I never need to wait. His staff are amazing!

    Katherine Babb Avatar Katherine Babb
    September 7, 2024

    Dr. Steve and his assistant Laura did a great job of healing my jaw pain. Laura was always so professional and her Shockwave treatment really helped ease the pain.

    Suzanne Di Stefano [Staff] Avatar Suzanne Di Stefano [Staff]
    June 7, 2024

4 Steps For Treating Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

IFC treatment being performed on foot for Morton's Neuroma

Inferential Current (IFC):

At our Oakville clinic, we utilize Interferential Current Therapy (IFC) with suction electrodes, delivering targeted electrical stimulation to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Unlike traditional adhesive pads, our suction-based IFC technology is scientifically proven to be more effective, ensuring deeper tissue penetration and better outcomes.

How Does IFC Work?

IFC delivers electrical impulses through suction cups placed on the skin, creating a soothing, deep massage effect. When combined with moist heat therapy, it enhances circulation, relaxes muscles, and improves tissue elasticity, while also flushing out inflammation to accelerate recovery and manage pain.

Our team of qualified professionals offers a customized approach to recovery, using IFC alongside therapies like Shockwave Therapy and Active Release Therapy (ART) for optimal healing.

2. Shockwave Therapy For Sinus Tarsi Syndrome:

Shockwave Therapy is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments available for musculoskeletal conditions, making it a gold standard in rehabilitative care. This advanced therapy is widely used by our expert chiropractors and physiotherapists in our Oakville clinic to treat conditions such as Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS), Sinus Tarsi Syndrome, tendonitis, muscle tightness, and chronic pain.

How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?

Shockwave Therapy utilizes a pneumatic device that delivers high-energy acoustic waves into the affected tissue. Specifically, Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) uses an air-powered applicator that propels a bullet against the transmitter head, generating pulses at a high frequency—up to 15 times per second—for a total of approximately 1,500 impulses per session. These acoustic waves penetrate deep into muscles, tendons, and joints to stimulate a healing response at the cellular level.

This therapy promotes increased blood circulation, collagen production, and tissue regeneration, making it especially effective for chronic injuries, scar tissue breakdown, and areas of restricted movement.

shockwave ankle treatment on a patients lateral ankle

Instrumental assisted soft tissue treatment being performed on foot for sinus tarsi

 

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Treatment:

At our Oakville clinic, this technique is commonly referred to as scraping. Scraping is performed using specialized metal tools that our skilled chiropractors and physiotherapists use to target affected areas. By applying controlled pressure, this method helps break down scar tissue and reduce inflammation, ultimately promoting improved healing and enhanced range of motion.

While scraping may cause some temporary discomfort, much like Shockwave Therapy, it often provides immediate relief and noticeable results. This evidence-based approach is an essential component of our comprehensive treatment plans, ensuring that patients experience optimal recovery and long-term benefits.

Manual Ankle Adjustment:

Also commonly known as an adjustment, this form of treatment causes your joints to release (making that crack or popping noise). This form of release with help relax your muscles surrounding the joint and reduce pressure, helping to alleviate pain and tightness. The ultimate goal of most treatment for sinus tarsi is to adjust the foot and get it moving properly. Ankle adjustment are only performed by our Oakville chiropractors!

 

Dr. Steve doing ankle adjustments on patient

Why Choose Shockwave Therapy For Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

Non-invasive & drug-free – No need for surgery or medications.
Accelerates healing – Stimulates natural tissue repair and regeneration.
Breaks down scar tissue – Improves flexibility and range of motion.
Immediate results – Many patients feel looser and experience reduced pain right away.
Targets deep muscle tension – Goes beyond traditional massage techniques for lasting relief.

Our team of qualified healthcare professionals at our Oakville clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care to help patients heal effectively. Shockwave Therapy is just one of the state-of-the-art treatments we offer to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

 

What to Expect During Shockwave Treatment

The intensity of the treatment is carefully controlled to ensure it remains within the patient’s comfort level, typically ranging between 0.3 BAR and 2.2 BAR. While some patients describe the sensation as a deep vibration or an “annoying” tapping feeling, most find the short treatment session—usually lasting just a few minutes—highly tolerable.

Because Shockwave Therapy penetrates deeper than a traditional massage, it reaches stubborn, tight, and inflamed areas that may not respond well to other therapies. Many patients report immediate relief after their first session, with continued improvements over subsequent treatments.

Post-Treatment Care & Recovery

Due to the intensity of the therapy, some mild soreness or tenderness may be experienced following treatment. To optimize recovery and minimize discomfort, our chiropractors and physiotherapists recommend applying ice to the treated area immediately after the session. This helps to reduce any temporary inflammation and enhances the overall healing process.

shockwave therapy on the outside of a patients ankle

Other Treatment Options For Sinus Tarsi

Acupuncture therapy being used for treat foot pain

Acupuncture:

At our Oakville clinic, acupuncture is provided by Dr. Jenn Garven, a skilled practitioner who specializes in medical acupuncture. Dr. Jenn utilizes this proven technique to effectively treat a variety of conditions, including Sinus Tarsi Syndrome.

During an acupuncture session, tiny, fine needles are gently inserted into the skin at specific points around the affected muscles. These needles are left in place for approximately 12 minutes, during which they work to loosen tight muscles, reduce tension, and promote increased blood flow to the area. This enhanced circulation helps to accelerate healing and reduce pain in the targeted muscle groups.

The beauty of acupuncture is that, despite the needles being in place, most patients hardly feel them—many don’t even notice they’re there! This minimally invasive approach provides effective, long-lasting relief while maintaining a high level of patient comfort.

Dr. Jenn’s expertise in medical acupuncture ensures that every treatment is tailored to the unique needs of each patient, providing a highly personalized and professional approach to healing. Whether you’re dealing with Sinus Tarsi Syndrome or other musculoskeletal issues, acupuncture can be a powerful addition to your treatment plan, helping you recover faster and achieve lasting pain relief.

Shoes or Orthotics:

Dr. Steve recommends Asics GT 2000’s to 90% of his patients. Find them on sale, get a pair for home and a pair for work. Can’t wear running shoes at work, check out our custom foot orthotics options at our Oakville clinic. Our Oakville Orthotics will help maintain your arch and decrease the pressure in and around the Tarsi Joint.

A doctor taking measurements for Custom Orthotics

Steps for At Home Care of Sinus Tarsi:

 

1. Ice and Elevation — Ice 20 min on , 20 min off, at least THREE times a day.

— Elevate your foot, lay on your back with your leg up on a wall or by pillows.

2. Supportive footwear and orthotics — This will help maintain your arch and foot stability, as well as stop from crushing the painful area when you walk. Click here for Orthotics in Oakville

3. Rest — There are only a few conditions that call for rest, this is one of them. Take 2 – 3 weeks off from any extended walks or demanding gym workouts.

If you have any questions about Sinus Tarsi feel free to call us!

Are you looking for Oakville Physiotherapy for your Sinus Tarsi Syndrome? Check out Vinaya our Physiotherapist and book today!

Best at Home Sinus Tarsi Exercises

A graphic showing best at home exercises for sinus tarsi

Are you experiencing Foot pain or think you have Sinus Tarsi Syndrome?

 

Call our Oakville Physiothearapy and Chiropractic clinic to book an assessment at 905-827-4197

 

Sinus Tarsi Syndrome FAQs