The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space that lies on the inside of the ankle. Ankle bones surround the tunnel, and it's covered by the flexor retinaculum, a thick, fibrous band of tissue. Arteries, veins, tendons and nerves run through the tarsal tunnel. Specifically, the posterior tibial nerve is compressed in tarsal tunnel syndrome. This causes numbness tingling, pain and a burning sensation to radiate from the inside of the ankle to the foot.
Flat Feet
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) states that overall, tarsal tunnel syndrome is causes by anything that compresses the posterior tibial nerve. So, for example, a person with flat feet is at risk of developing tarsal tunnel syndrome because the outward tilting of the heel that occurs with flat feet can cause an unnatural compression of the posterior tibial nerve. A person with flat feet should see a doctor to make sure he is wearing the proper shoes to correct flat feet. Delaying treatment can result in tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Diabetes
EOrthopod.com states that diabetes may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diabetes is a condition in which insulin, a molecule that controls blood sugar levels, is not produced or does not function correctly. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels may cause swelling in the body; swelling in the tarsal tunnel can cause posterior tibial nerve compression and the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome. If diabetics notice a new pain in the ankle or foot, they should tell their doctor to be properly assessed for tarsal tunnel syndrome.
Osteoarthritis
According to the ACFAS, osteoarthritis may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which cartilage breaks down in a joint. This causes bones to rub together and form bone spurs, or humps of bone. If a new bone spur is formed in the tarsal tunnel, it can compress the posterior tibial nerve and cause tarsal tunnel symptoms. In this case, the doctor may recommend conservative treatments if symptoms are tolerable. If symptoms worsen, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone spur. Thus, a patient should not hesitate in letting his doctor know if he begins experiencing foot or ankle pain that may be signs of tarsal tunnel syndrome.
