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Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment (Baxter’s Neuritis)

What Is the Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment (Baxter’s Neuritis)?

Calcaneal nerve entrapment is a condition that can commonly mimic plantar fasciitis. However, this condition has slight differences that can be missed, and unfortunately often patients will be misdagnosed. Calcaneal nerve entrapment mainly occurs as a muscle compresses the nerve against the heel bone. Patients don’t typically have morning pain and don't responding to the normal plantar fascial treatments. 


calcaneal nerve entrapment diagramThe nerve is compressed and you begin to experience the signs and symptoms of calcaneal nerve entrapment/Baxter’s neuritis. There are many possible causes, but a few of the most common include:

• Flat feet and fallen arches

• Bone spurs and plantar fasciitis

• Systemic conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis


Patients typically experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• An ache that progressese to a burning, tingling or electric-type pain

• Numb toes or numbness around the heel

• Pain, especially shooting pain or pins and needles

The symptoms are usually around the inside of the foot or heel. However, some people will experience pain along the bottom of the foot or along fifth toe. Symptoms may arise suddenly, or sometimes get worse with time.

It is very important to seek help from your foot and ankle doctor early to minimize long-term complications like permanent numbness or loss of function.


The foot and ankle doctor will examine your foot and ankle and pertinent medical issues. Often times one can strike the nerve and recreate the sensations. Further medical imaging or testing can be ordered, such as nerve conduction studies or an MRI. Even a local injection to numb the nerve and see if symptoms resolve can help with the diagnosis.

Non-Surgical Treatment

A variety of treatment options, often used in combination, are available to treat calcaneal nerve entrapments/Baxter’s neuritis. These include:








• Bracing. Patients can find relief with specific braces. 

When is Surgery Needed?

Sometimes surgery is the best option for treating calcaneal nerve entrapment/Baxter’s neuritis syndrome. The foot and ankle surgeon will determine if surgery is necessary and will select the appropriate procedure or procedures based on the cause of the condition.