Common Causes of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the foot and ankle area caused by the compression of the tibial nerve. The tibial nerve runs along the back of the ankle and then into the foot. The compression typically occurs in the tarsal tunnel which is a narrow pathway found on the inside of the ankle. The condition is characterized by pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the foot and ankle area.

Trauma Or Injury

One of the common causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome is trauma or injury to the foot and ankle area. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that 20% of patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome had a history of trauma or injury to the ankle. The injury may result in swelling, which can cause compression of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel.

Flat Feet

Flat feet or pes planus is another common cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery found that 87% of patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome had flat feet. The condition can cause overpronation of the foot, which can lead to compression of the tibial nerve. That said, this condition is quite common in those with higher arches as well.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It can also contribute to the development of tarsal tunnel syndrome. A study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that 29% of patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome had rheumatoid arthritis and 12% had osteoarthritis.

Diabetes or Other Chronic Systemic Conditions

Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It can cause nerve damage, which is known as diabetic neuropathy. A study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that 30% of patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome had diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves that run through the tarsal tunnel, leading to compression.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also contribute to the development of tarsal tunnel syndrome. A study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery found that 14% of pregnant women who complained of foot and ankle pain had tarsal tunnel syndrome. This is because the weight gain during pregnancy can put pressure on the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel, leading to compression. Pregnancy can also induce carpal tunnel syndrome, the ‘sister-syndrome’.

Masses or Growths

Masses or growths such as tumors, ganglion cysts, or enlarged blood vessels can cause compression of the tibial nerve or its branches, leading to tarsal tunnel syndrome. This compression can cause irritation, inflammation, and swelling of the nerve, resulting in pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot. The pressure from the mass or growth can also impede blood flow and lead to further nerve damage. In some cases, surgical removal of the mass or growth may be necessary to alleviate the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by the compression or irritation of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel. Trauma or injury, flat feet, arthritis, diabetes, and pregnancy are some of the common causes of the condition. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent further nerve damage and relieve symptoms.