Definition: The tarsal tunnel is a structure in the foot formed between bones of the foot and overlying fibrous tissue. Within this tunnel lies a nerve called the posterior tibial nerve. Tarsal tunnel syndrome results when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed within the tarsal tunnel. This condition is very similar, in mechanism, to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.
When the posterior tibial nerve is compressed in the tarsal tunnel, patients commonly complain of numbness over the bottom of the foot, as well as complaints of pain, burning, and tingling over the base of the foot and heel. Occasionally, tarsal tunnel syndrome is confused with plantar fasciitis, or heel spurs.
For more information: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
