Baxter's Nerve Entrapment

What It Is: Baxter’s nerve entrapment, also known as inferior calcaneal nerve entrapment, is a condition involving compression or irritation of the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve within the foot. Patients commonly experience chronic heel pain, which often resembles plantar fasciitis, making accurate diagnosis challenging.
Symptoms: The hallmark symptoms include burning, tingling, or sharp, shooting sensations along the inside of the heel and arch of the foot, particularly aggravated by prolonged standing or walking.
Causes: Anatomical abnormalities, repetitive stress, muscle hypertrophy, inflammation, or trauma.
Treatment: Treatment usually begins with rest, footwear modifications, orthotic supports, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to relieve nerve compression. In refractory or severe cases, surgical decompression may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore normal function.