Tarsal tunnel syndrome

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A condition caused by compression of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel


When comparing to the normal arch image, this image of fallen arches, helps create a visualization of how the tibial nerve can be strained and compressed due to the curvature.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Synonyms Posterior tibial neuralgia
Pronounce
Field Orthopedics, Neurology, Podiatry
Symptoms Burning pain, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain in the foot, ankle, or toes; worsens with activity or prolonged standing
Complications Chronic pain, permanent nerve damage, gait abnormalities
Onset Gradual or sudden, often after injury or overuse
Duration Chronic unless treated
Types Compression neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve
Causes Compression of the posterior tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel due to injury, overuse, swelling, flat feet, or masses like ganglion cysts or lipomas
Risks Flat feet, arthritis, diabetes, ankle injuries, occupations with prolonged standing or walking
Diagnosis Clinical exam, Tinel's sign, nerve conduction studies, MRI or ultrasound imaging
Differential diagnosis Plantar fasciitis, sciatica, neuropathy, stress fracture
Prevention Proper footwear, avoiding overuse and repetitive ankle trauma
Treatment Rest, physical therapy, orthotic devices, corticosteroid injections, surgical decompression in severe cases
Medication NSAIDs, pain relievers, corticosteroids
Prognosis Good with early treatment; chronic or worsening without intervention
Frequency Relatively uncommon; more frequent in athletes and those with foot deformities
Deaths None (not life-threatening)


Tarsal Tunnel release
3D still showing tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Increased pressure and high loads on the ankle joint can cause TTS, as can smaller than normal shoes. In this picture, most of the load is placed upon the knee and ankle joint.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space on the inside of the ankle next to the ankle bones. This syndrome is analogous to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, where the median nerve is compressed.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The tarsal tunnel is located on the medial side of the ankle and is formed by the flexor retinaculum, a band of fibrous tissue that stretches from the medial malleolus to the calcaneus. Within this tunnel, the tibial nerve, along with the posterior tibial artery and tendons of the flexor muscles, passes into the foot. The tibial nerve branches into the medial plantar nerve, lateral plantar nerve, and the medial calcaneal nerve as it exits the tarsal tunnel.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Placing the foot in Eversion (top left), Inversion (bottom left), or Plantar flexion(right) all put strain on the tibial nerve. These positions should be avoided to prevent the development of TTS and can be done so by using a brace to place the foot in a neutral position.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be caused by any condition that results in compression of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. Common causes include:

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

This is an image of a normal arched foot.

The symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome can vary but often include:

  • Tingling, burning, or a sensation similar to an electric shock in the foot.
  • Numbness in the foot or toes.
  • Pain that radiates from the inside of the ankle into the foot.
  • Symptoms that worsen with activity and improve with rest.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, focusing on the foot and ankle, and may use the Tinel's sign test, where tapping over the tibial nerve elicits tingling or pain. Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to identify structural causes of compression. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies can assess the function of the tibial nerve.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for tarsal tunnel syndrome aims to relieve pressure on the tibial nerve and may include:

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for tarsal tunnel syndrome varies depending on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of treatment. Many individuals experience relief of symptoms with conservative management, but some may require surgery for lasting relief. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent permanent nerve damage.

Related pages[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]



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