The length of time the tarsal tunnel syndrome lasts depends on what caused the syndrome to develop. A minor injury, like a sprain that caused swelling and nerve compression, can improve significantly within two days (48 hours) by following the RICE strategy, the acronym for “Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.” If the condition is due to something like disease or flat feet, it can take much longer. The important point is to not leave the tarsal tunnel syndrome untreated because it can worsen to the point of causing permanent damage.