FELA Lawyers

Railroad Work May Lead to Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Railroad workers are susceptible to many kinds of injuries while on the job. Several recent lawsuits have named Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome as an effect of working long hours on the railroad. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by excessive pressure placed on a nerve that runs from the back of the leg to the ankle. Several railroad workers have cited this condition as an injury in their FELA lawsuits. The consistent vibrations and other trauma that a railroad worker is exposed to can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of the condition include:

• Pain in the leg and foot
• Burning sensations
• Tingling feeling in the sole of the foot
• Pain that worsens throughout the day, but is relieved temporarily by elevation, massage, or rest

The tibial nerve is affected by the rough working conditions that railroad workers face. The vibrations can but unnecessary pressure on this nerve and restrict neurological impulses from reaching the foot. The restriction of the impulses is what causes the burning, tingling sensation that injured railroad workers may experience.

The treatment of tarsal tunnel syndrome varies. Conservative treatments include wider shoes or arch supports. These may reduce the discomfort, but do not fully treat the problem. Anti-inflammatory drugs may also be used to treat the nerve if it as become inflamed. Finally steroid injections may be effective in relieving pressure from the nerve and ease discomfort. If none of these treatments are effective, surgery may be the next step in finding relief from the pain of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

If you believe that you have developed tarsal tunnel syndrome as a result of your hard work on the railroad, contact a FELA lawyer at Williams Kherkher to explore your legal options. Every worker has the right to safe working conditions, so if you have been denied that right and been injured as a result, don't hesitate to consult an attorney to discuss your claim.