Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Original Editor - Staci Burns, Jonathan Blondeel

Top Contributors - Admin, Blondeel Jonathan, Dieter Schuddinck, Rani Sileghem, Staci Burns, Kim Jackson, Rachael Lowe, Jesse Lemmens, Vidya Acharya, 127.0.0.1, Tarina van der Stockt, Jenny Wong, Naomi O'Reilly, Kai A. Sigel and WikiSysop  

Search Strategy

We searched the web using different databases: Pubmed, PEDro, ScienceDirect, Web of Science and Google Scholar. We used one of or a combination of the following keywords.

Keywords: tarsal tunnel syndrome, TTS, tibial nerve entrapment, tibial neuropathy, plantar heel pain, diagnosis, physical therapy, conservative management, surgery, medical management, physical management, etc.

Definition/Description

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a compressive neuropathy of the posterior tibial nerve or one of its associated branches individually or collectively (1; LOE: 5). The tunnel lies posterior to the medial malleolus of the ankle, beneath the flexor retinaculum.
Symptoms include pain radiating into the foot, usually this pain is worsened by walking (or weight-bearing acitvities). Examination may reveal Tinel’s sign over the tibial nerve at the ankle, weakness and atrophy of the small foot muscles or loss of sensation in the foot. (2)

Clinically Relevant Anatomy

 The tarsal tunnel is a fibrous osseus tunnel, it has a proximal floor and a distal floor. The proximal floor is formed by the flexor retinaculum (RET,  Fig 1), it contains several flexor tendons (M. Tibialis posterior, M. Flexor digitorum longus, M. Flexor halluces longus), the posterior tibial nerve,  the posterior tibial artery and the tibial veins. The distal floor is formed between the abductor hallucis muscle (H ABD, Fig. 1) and the deep  quadratus plantae. This contains branches of the plantar vessels and the plantar nerves. (3;LOE: 4)

The posterior tibial nerve (NT, Fig. 1) runs along the M. soleus in the posterior compartment. The nerve exits the compartment and passes deep behind the RET between the calcaneus and the medial malleolus. Before passing behind the flexor retinaculum the nerve branches, one part moves on behind the RET, the other part forms the Medial calcaneal nerve (MCN, Fig 1). At the distal floor the tibial nerve divides into two terminal branches: Medial plantar nerve (MPN, Fig. 1) and Lateral plantar nerve (LPN, Fig. 1), sometimes this happens at the proximal tunnel. The inferior calcaneal nerve runs branches off from the lateral plantar nerve and is also referred to as the motor nerve for the abductor muscle for the fifth toe (ABD V, Fig. 1)

Compression of the Tibial nerve at the tarsal tunnel leads to plantar heel pain, this condition is called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. Other nerves that run in the foot also have risk of compression due to their anatomical situation.
The LPN supplies most of the muscles of the foot, the lateral part of the skin (Fig. 2) and the fourth and fifth toe. This nerve runs between the abductor hallucis and the quadratus plantae, entrapment between these muscles is possible and also the most common. The first branch of the LPN runs close to the calcaneal tuberosity (ICN, Fig. 1), which is also a possible site of entrapment.

The MCN supplies sensory innervation to most of the heel (heel fat pad, superficial tissues)(Fig. 2), this nerve is less likely to be compressed between its anatomical sturctures. But can be traumatised and irritated as a result of atrophy of the heel fat pad.
The MPN innervates the abductor hallucis, flexor hallucis brevis, flexor digitorum brevis, first lumbrical and also the medial side of the plantar part (Fig. 2) of the foot. (4;LOE: 5)

Epidemiology /Etiology

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by any kind of entrapment or compression of the tibial nerve or its plantar branches. In many cases the cause is idiopathic or posttraumatic. In a literature review, by John T.C. Lau, M.D. et al., was estimated that 20-40 % of cases were idiopathic. (21; LOE:  5, 24; LOE: 5).
Up to 10% of all cases are the result of the following diseases: arthrosis, tenosynovitis and Rheumatoid_Arthritis. Nearly twice as many cases have convoluted vessels as the origin. (22; LOE: 5)

Some other rare causes are Diabetes Mellitus , Hypothyroidism , Gout, mucopolysaccharidoses, and (very rarely) hyperlipidemia (21; LOE: 5).

Some muscles or tendons, medial of the talus bone, can entrap the tibial nerve due to hypertrophy or being accessory. As mentioned in the ‘anatomy’-section the tendon of the flexor hallucis longus muscle passes the tarsal tunnel along with blood vessels, the tibial nerve and other muscles. When enough hypertrophy occurs in one of these muscles the pressure within the tarsal tunnel increases. Sometimes this can even lead up to the muscle belly of the flexor hallucis longus entering the tarsal tunnel. This can cause an overstimulation of the tibial nerve or its branches. Depending on which nerve is being impinged the patient can get different uncomfortable sensations in its foot. (23; LOE: 4)

Some persons are born with accessory muscles. These variations from the norm can cause more harm than good. Those muscles are not necessarily helpful, but it is a given that they do occupy space within the foot. Similar to hypertrophy of the muscles in the medial ankle region this can compress the tibial nerve possibly resulting in chronic pain. (25; LOE: 5)
Surgery or an overload on the ankle region can cause local inflammation and swelling, yet again causing pressure on the tibial nerve. Sports where sprinting and jumping play a significant role have been proven to be provocative for TTS. People with flat feet, talocalcaneal coalition or bony fragments around the tarsal tunnel are more vulnerable to develop the syndrome. (21; LOE: 5, 14; LOE: 4)

People with flat feet, talocalcaneal coalition or bony fragments around the tarsal tunnel are more vulnerable to develop TTS. (14; LOE: 4)

It might be important to mention that because tarsal tunnel syndrome is a relatively uncommon clinical entity, it can often be misdiagnosed in both children and adults due to the clinician’s low index of suspicion (1; LOE: 5). McSweeney & Cichero (2015) also state in their review that the incidence of TTS is not known but the prevalence would be greater in females than males, predominately in adults (1; LOE: 5). TTS also tends to be more common in athletes and individuals whom are subjected to prolonged weight-baring periods inclusive of standing, walking or intense physical activity (5;LOE: 5, 1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5). Pes planus deformity/hyperpronation may compromise the anatomical structures within the tarsal tunnel and thus lead to a physical decrease of space and an increase in tension of the nerve (1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5). It would be one of the most common extrinsic factors to cause TTS (10; LOE: 4). Alleviation of pain/complaints could be obtained with rest (17;LOE: 5) or neutral immobilization of the foot and ankle, and loose-fitting footwear (17;LOE: 5). External compression resulting from footwear or tight plaster casts is said to be a most common cause (19; LOE: 4).

Clinical Presentation

 TTS has the following symptoms: tingling or burning pain (paresthesia), hyperesthesia and sensory impairment (dysesthesia). The symptoms  diffuse in the sole and/ or the heel or digits of the forefoot. The Valleix phenomenon, in which the symptoms extend midway to the lower leg due  to percussion of the entrapped nerve, may also occur. McSweeney & Cichero (2015) also state in their review that the symptoms are often  unilaterally presented and that they may worsen as the day progresses (1; LOE: 5). This can also be accompanied by nocturnal awakening (12;  LOE: 2b). Furthermore, in some cases muscle the patients may also present weakened, atrophied or paralyzed flexor and digital abductor  muscles (12; LOE: 2b, 26; LOE: B, 27; LOE: B). Patients may be unable to move the hallux as a result of local tenderness and swelling. These  movements include flexion, extension, abduction and adduction (12; LOE: 2b, 1; LOE: 5, 26; LOE: B, 27; LOE: B).

Pain becomes worse after or during weight-bearing activities and improves with rest. (28; LOE: 1b, 1; LOE: 5) Pain is the most prominent symptom, which is localized directly over the medial malleolus with radiation to the longitudinal arch and plantar aspect of the foot including the heel. (27; LOE: B, 1; LOE: 5) Pain begins in the plantar part of the forefoot and extends to the toes. It is usually aggravated in the night due to the modification of foot posture that causes the posterior tibial nerve to be restrained or venous congestion. There is rarely motor weakness or atrophy of intrinsic foot muscles. (26; LOE: B, 1; LOE: 5) Common manifestations of tarsal tunnel syndrome is a positive Tinel’s sign and pain felt on provocation using passively maximally dorsiflexion and eversion of the ankle while all the metatarsophalangeal joints are performing dorsiflexion. Most common and objective symptom is a diminished sensation. (28; LOE: 1b, 1; LOE: 5)

Differential Diagnosis

 Most persons have once had sensation of so-called sleeping limbs, usually referred to as paresthesia. This feeling can also rise due to a  pathogenic condition such as polyneuropathy. That’s when this numb, tingling feeling can no longer be put under control by the patient. It’s a  condition often arises at the hands or feet. Considering one has paresthesia at the foot, the symptoms are very similar to those of the TTS. (21;  LOE: 5)
 A shortage of oxygen supply to tissue is called ischemia. Permanent damage can occur when this supply is put on hold for extensive time. As  nerves start to lack oxygen their functionality slowly decreases. The result of extended ischemia can be devastating. However if a lack of blood  flow is the cause, and it is normalized in time, damage can be near to none. Concerning nerves, in some cases permanent ischemic paresthesia  can arise. This makes the neurons fire at random which gives the same sensation as the symptoms of TTS. (21; LOE: 5)

A compartment syndrome can mostly be found in the upper arm and lower leg. It can show up after a pressure build-up on or within a muscle compartment with an overload of certain muscle groups or fluid build-up being possible origins of this syndrome. The tibial nerve runs along the deep calf muscles with a compartment. Excessive pressure may trigger this nerve to fire uncontrollably. The TTS can be misdiagnosed for this compartment syndrome if the compression of the nerve mostly takes place near the medial malleolus. (21; LOE: 5)
The former has also proven to be able to produce a distal tibial nerve lesion. A lesion is any damage or abnormal change in tissue. A lesion in or near a nerve can compromise its function. Therefore it can simulate the same symptoms as the TTS when a nerve near the medial malleolus is involved. (21; LOE: 5)

As a tumour is a group of cells which grow uncontrollably and can be benign, precancerous or malignant. Despite these three distinctions they do have in common that they take up space unnecessarily. Pressure caused by tumours rarely induces trouble to its surround tissues. It can however be a differential diagnosis for TTS if it overexcites a nerve at the medial malleolus. (21; LOE: 5)

A sum-up of possible differential diagnoses (21; LOE: 5)
• Polyneuropathy
• L5 and S1 nerve root syndromes
• Morton's_Metatarsalgia
• Compartment_Syndrome of the deep flexor compartment
• Calcaneal_Spurs , arthrosis, inflammatory changes of the fasciae and ligaments
• Ischemia
• Infection (38)
• Lesion
• Tumour
• Plantar fasciitis

Diagnostic Procedures

 The diagnosis of TTS is mainly a clinical diagnosis based on detailed medical history and clinical examination. The clinical tests performed by  physiotherapists are mostly provocative tests (12; LOE: 2b). These will be further described in the topic “Examination” (underneath). Adjunctive  medical imaging and electrophysiological studies may assist in diagnosing (6; LOE: 5) and could provide additional information useful to plan  management (5; LOE: 5). This can include electrodiagnostic studies, radiographs, ultrasound, MRI and computed tomography (5;LOE: 5, 1; LOE:  5, 16; LOE: 2c, 17;LOE: 5, 6; LOE: 5, 11; LOE: 4, 19; LOE: 4). It is, for example, also possible for the digital abductor and flexor muscles of the  symptomatic foot to weaken, atrophy or even paralyse in some chronic circumstances (1; LOE: 5). This is often difficult to detect clinically and  may therefore require subsequent referral for medical imaging or nerve conduction studies (1; LOE: 5). We should keep in mind though that  these kinds of examinations are not substitutes for the clinical examination but they can play a key role in confirming or excluding the physician’s  suspicion (16; LOE: 2c).

As already mentioned, diagnosing the cause of TTS, and actually a lot of other medial ankle and heel pain, by physical examination alone can be challenging for the clinician (19; LOE: 4). This is due to the complex anatomy of the medial aspect of the ankle and hindfoot, which makes localizing symptoms to a specific structure difficult (19; LOE: 4). For example, plain X-rays of the ankle are useful in demonstrating structural abnormalities such as hind foot varus/valgus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) adds further detail and is highly accurate (83%) when investigating space-occupying lesions (5; LOE: 5).

MRI is considered the gold standard in identifying suspected compression of the tarsal tunnel caused by the presence of obstructive foreign masses, lesions or tumours (1; LOE: 5, 19; LOE: 4. This type of imaging not only confirms the presence of a suspected lesion but also defines the depth, extent and margins of the lesion for accurate characterization (1; LOE: 5). In a study undertaken by Frey (reviewed by McSweeney & Cichero, 2015), MRI was deemed to have shown significant findings in 88% of symptomatic tarsal tunnel candidates, thus assisting with etiological reasoning and surgical planning if required (1; LOE: 5). MRI and high-resolution ultrasound have the diagnostic capability to detect and demonstrate the thickness of the flexor retinaculum, overall depth and contents within the tarsal tunnel, including the posterior tibial nerve cross-sectional area and its terminal branch derivatives (1; LOE: 5).

Ultrasound represents an accessible, portable and relatively inexpensive (less expensive than MRI) imaging tool for the assessment of medial ankle and heel pain (19; LOE: 4, 20; LOE: 5). In addition, it offers the advantage of comparison with the contralateral side (19; LOE: 4). Although MRI (above) is considered the gold standard, ultrasound is effective in the diagnosis of pathologic conditions affecting the medial ankle and heel and correlates well with MRI (19; LOE: 4). Ultrasound is able to demonstrate the complex anatomy of the tarsal tunnel and show the entire course of the tibial nerve and its branches at the medial ankle. It is also effective in the identification of space occupying lesions. Even small changes in the cross sectional area of the nerve can be detected on ultrasound in symptomatic patients (19; LOE: 4).

Electrodiagnostic testing can also assist in the diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome (1; LOE: 5). These tests include nerve conduction studies that assess sensory conduction velocities of the tibial nerve or one of its branches, as well as the amplitude and duration of motor-evoked potentials (1; LOE: 5). There is limited quality evidence based research that demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity of the electrophysiological techniques in TTS. Reduced amplitude and increased duration of the motor response are the more sensitive indicators of the presence of pathology (1; LOE: 5). Unfortunately these investigations often yield an unacceptable level of false negative results, and should be utilized as an adjunctive assessment to confirm physical examination findings (12; LOE: 2b, 1; LOE: 5).

Saeed (reviewed by McSweeney & Cichero, 2015) discusses evidence of false positive readings in his study of 70 asymptomatic subjects (1; LOE: 5) and Ahmad et al (2012) report that false negative tests are not uncommon and therefore do not rule out the diagnosis (5; LOE: 5). Thus, Abouelela & Zohiery (2012) state that provocative tests remain important in the diagnosis of TTS due to the unaccepted range of false negative results in electrodiagnostic testing (12; LOE: 2b).

Last, plain weight-bearing radiographs and/or computed tomography of the foot and ankle should be acquired if suspecting morphological influences or structural anomalies from bony abnormalities, according to McSweeney & Cichero (2012) (1; LOE: 5). Omoumi et al (2010) state that in practice, the visualization of articular communication with MRI or ultrasonography can be challenging (11; LOE: 4). Computed tomography (arthrography) with delayed acquisitions has been shown to be a valuable technique for the detection of articular communication between structures and a joint (11; LOE: 4). Closing, it is recommended that all tests should ideally be performed bilaterally for adequate observation and comparative study of the contralateral joint (1; LOE: 5).

Examination

 Tarsal tunnel syndrome may lead to a broad range of symptoms affecting the posteromedial ankle and plantar aspects of the foot (1; LOE: 5).  This is due to the proximal TTS affecting the tibial nerve in the retromalleolar region, whereas distal TTS tends to affect its branches (19; LOE: 4).  According to Zheng et al (2016), paresthesia and/or pain in the sole of the foot is the widely accepted primary symptom of tarsal tunnel syndrome  (15; LOE: 2b). Ahmad et al (2012) says that the predominant symptom is indeed pain, directly over the tarsal tunnel behind the medial malleolus  with radiation to the longitudinal arch and plantar aspect of the foot including the heel (5; LOE: 5). Tu & Bytomski (2011) talk about medial midfoot  heel pain (17;LOE: 5) and Kavlak & Uygur (2011) about the symptom triad of pain, paresthesia and numbness. Other (sensory) symptoms may  include dysesthesia and, as already stated above, paraesthesia (e.g. burning, tingling and numbness) at all or varied sites of the tarsal tunnel  including: the posterior compartment, retromalleolar flexor retinaculum coverage, and both the anterior and posterior fibro-osseus tunnels  branching to the plantar margins of the foot (5; LOE: 5, 12; LOE: 2b, 1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5). A varied and specific involvement of the differing  nerve branches accounts for the diverse presentation and extent level of symptoms observed with the condition of tarsal tunnel syndrome (1;  LOE: 5).

A very common used clinical test for the diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome is the Hoff-mann-Tinel Sign (1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5). Originally used as a specific test for the carpal tunnel syndrome, it can also be used to examine tibial nerve compression in the ankle (13). During this test, the nerve is percussed or tapped at the suspected site of compression, the area below the medial malleolus (1; LOE: 5). A positive diagnosis will cause paresthesia either locally or radiating along the course of the nerve (1; LOE: 5). This positive result may be due to the entrapment of the nerve by surrounding tissues (7; LOE: B, 9; LOE: 2b). When the test delivers a negative result, the patient feels no pain (13). It is furthermore postulated that greater than 50% of patients with compressive neuropathy of the tarsal tunnel will portray a positive Tinel’s sign of the posterior tibial nerve (8; LOE: 1a). Alongside Tinel’s sign, the physiotherapist could also use the SLR (Straight Leg Raise) test to provoke symptoms similar to a nerve problem (8; LOE: 1a).

A second test that could be used (in addition to the Tinel’s sign) for making the symptoms become diagnostically apparent is the dorsiflexion-eversion test (14; LOE: 4, 1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5, 18; LOE: 2b). To perform this test the clinician both passively maximally everts and dorsiflexes the ankle whilst maximally dorsiflexing the metatarsophalangeal joints (1; LOE: 5). This position is held for 5 – 10 s and will display further intensification of the symptoms if positive (1; LOE: 5). On occasions pain may also ascend to the thigh following this means of testing (1; LOE: 5), although this would happen rather rarely (15; LOE: 2b). Kinoshita et al (2006) have reported that the dorsiflexion-eversion test reproduced or aggravated symptoms for 82% in symptomatic feet, with no replication evident in the healthy control group (14; LOE: 4)). In brief, what happens during the dorsiflexion-eversion test is that the distal posterior tibial nerve is stretched and compressed (14; LOE: 4).

Further intensification of symptoms can also be obtained by using the Trepman test or the plantar flexion-inversion test (1; LOE: 5, 17;LOE: 5). This maneuver also increases pressure on the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel confines (1; LOE: 5). Through intra-operative observation, Hendrix et al (reviewed by McSweeney & Cichero, 2015) acknowledged this combined movement not only reduced the overall width of the tarsal tunnel, but also compressed the lateral-planter nerve (1; LOE: 5). So either dorsiflexion-eversion or plantar flexion-inversion can reproduce pain or increase the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome (14; LOE: 4).

Abouelala & Zohiery (2012) investigated a fourth clinical test, called the triple compression stress test (TCST). This provocative test was supposed to be more specific and therefore sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing TTS was investigated. The TCST showed 85,9% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The TCST combines the Tinel’s sign test with the Trepman test (1; LOE: 5) by bringing the foot passively in full plantar flexion, inversion and applying an even and constant digital pressure over the posterior tibial nerve for 30s (12; LOE: 2b). A double compression on the nerve occurs from the plantar flexion and inversion, and along with a simultaneous third compression maneuver by direct digital pressure, the test was hence named triple compression stress test (12; LOE: 2b). The study found that clinical signs and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome were apparent within a matter of seconds for 93,8% of symptomatic feet (12; LOE: 2b). Pain usually developed within 10 s and numbness within 30 s of the test. All control feet had negative clinical TCST. The researchers also state that the TCST achieves a simple, fast and very reliable provocative maneuver to increase sensitivity of TSS diagnosis, both clinically and electrophysiologically

Outcome Measures

 There exists a wide variety in clinical outcomes that can be used to evaluate foot conditions. In 2013 Kenneth J. et al. concluded in their 10-year  research that most of them were inconsistently used. Out of 139 clinical outcomes the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS),  the  visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey, the Foot Function Index (FFI) and the American Academy of  Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) outcomes instruments were the most popular. The study underlined the need for consistent use of a responsive,  valid, reliable and clinically meaningful outcome measurement tool (32; LOE: 1a).
 One measurement tool that meets the requirements is the Foot and Ankle Abitlity Measure. It was made in 2005 by RobRoy et al. It covers a  wide variety of disorders in the lower extremity, namely the lower leg, foot and ankle. Examples are plantar fasciitis (29; LOE: 2b), ankle  instability  (31; LOE: 1a), etc. Its clinical relevance was researched by Martin et al. and in the table underneath the validity, reliability and  responsiveness of  the tool is summerised. (30; LOE: 5)

Medical Management

The management goes into two directions: a conservative or non-operative management and surgery. The former is used prior to the latter approach, unless signs of muscle atrophy or motor involvement are obvious, according to McSweeney & Cichero. The latter is used when patients haven’t benefitted from the former approach. (1; LOE: 5, 21; LOE: 2a, 37; LOE: 4, 39; LOE: 4)

Conservative approach
In this approach the following can be included: “physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, analgesic, opioid or GABA analog medications, tri-cyclic antidepressants and vitamin B-complex supplements and corticosteroid injections” (1). In the literature there is unfortunately an absence of RCTs, and in existing case series the efficacy of treatment methods can’t be quantified. (1; LOE: 5, 21; LOE: 2a, 37; LOE: 4, 39; LOE: 4)

Surgical approach
When the non-operative management doesn’t work, surgical management is recommended.(1; LOE: 5, 21; LOE: 2a, 37; LOE: 4, 39; LOE: 4) This approach can include: “surgical decompression of the tibial nerve and its branches with division of the medial flexor retinaculum; release of the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle and removal of impinging or pathological lesions” (1; LOE: 5). It is stated by McSweeney & Cichero that surgery may improve symptoms of the syndrome but that evidence of the efficacy of the surgery in the literature can conflict itself. . (1; LOE: 5, 21; LOE: 2a, 37; LOE: 4, 39; LOE: 4).Another surgical approach is cryosurgery. McSweeney & Cichero state that there are different advantages of using cryosurgery for this syndrome, but as there is a lack of clinical trials the guideline for the use of this method is still undergoing change. (1; LOE: 5)

Physical Therapy Management

There is a lack of evidence in literature on treatment approaches (4; LOE: 5). Small RCT’s would help to find succesfull rehabilitation excersices or other treatments for patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome (1; LOE: 5). Published papers have reported case studies, but empirical evidence of their efficacy is lacking (1; LOE: 5)
At the time patients who do not respond to physical therapy or other conservative treatment are reffered to a clinician for a surgical approach (e.g. decompression of the tarsal tunnel).

Conservative treatment

There are three stages (33; LOE: 5, 34; LOE: 5) in the development of TTS, in every stage there are different aspect that may be adressed in the management of the symptoms.

Key Research

add links and reviews of high quality evidence here (case studies should be added on new pages using the case study template)

The following source was key research for this page:
28. Kavlak, Y., & Uygur, F. (2011). Effects of nerve mobilization exercise as an adjunct to the conservative treatment for patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 34(7), 441-448 (Level of evidence 1b)

Resources

http://sportspodiatry.co.uk
http://www.footlogics.co.za/achilles-tendonitis-pain-treatment.html
http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/conditions/ailments-of-the-heel/pages/plantar-fasciitis.aspx
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Z2XlqsuQSY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJ56EjnQ3Ok
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDyr2wAOIhM

Clinical Bottom Line

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a rare condition and often underdiagnosed (1; LOE: 5). A variety of symptoms are possible, such as: tingling or burning pain (paresthesia), hyperesthesia and sensory impairment (dysesthesia). These are felt on the plantar face of the ankel and foot.
There are a few test to identify tarsal tunnel syndrome or rule out other possibilities, these tests include: MRI, Ultrasound, Hoffman-tinels test, dorsiflexion-eversion test, trepman test and the triple compression stress test. (4; LOE: 5)
Treatment of a tarsal tunnel syndrom should be attemted conservatively at first (see “Physical therapy management”). If conservative treatment fails a surgical aproach can be taken.

References

 1. Simon C. McSweeney, Matthew Cichero, Tarsal tunnel syndrome—A narrative literature review. The Foot 25 (2015) 244–250 (Level of evidence: 5)

2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/?term=tarsal+tunnel+syndrome

3. Role of ultrasound in posteromedial tarsal tunnel syndrome: 81 cases. Olivier Fantino. J Ultrasound. 2014 Jun; 17(2): 99–112. Published online 2014 Mar 28. doi: 10.1007/s40477-014-0082-9 (Level of evidence: 4)

4. Ali M. Alshami , Tina Souvlis, Michel W. Coppieters. A review of plantar heel pain of neural origin: Differential diagnosis and management. Manual Therapy 13 (2008) 103–111 (Level of evidence: 5)

5. Ahmad, M. , Tsang, K. , Mackenney, P.J. and Adedapo, A.O. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: A literature review. Elsevier , 3, 2012, 149-152. http://www.footanklesurgery-journal.com/article/S1268-7731(11)00122-6/abstract (Level of evidence: 5)

6. Meadows, J.R. & Finnoff, J.T. (2014). Lower extremity nerve entrapments in athletes. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 13 (5), 299 – 306.(Level of evidence: 5)

7. Mark Harries, Clyde Williams, William D. Stanish and Lyle J.Micheli. Oxford textbook of sports medicine. Great Britain: Butler & Tanner ltd., frame, 2000, pp. 699 – 700. (Level of evidence: 2B)

8. Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072 St. Lucia, Australia. Strain and excursion of the sciatic, tibial, and plantar nerves during a modified straight leg raising test. pubmed. [Online] [Citaat van: 16 november 2010.] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16838375 (Level of evidence: 1a)

9. Tarsal tunnel syndrome caused by ganglia. M. Nagaoka, K. Satou. 1998, The journal of bone & joint surgery (Br), pp. 607-610. (Level of evidence: 2b)

10. Lin D, Williams C and Zaw H. A rare case of an accessory flexor hallucis longus causing tarsal tunnel syndrome. Foot Ankle Surg 20: e37-e39, 2014 http://www.footanklesurgery-journal.com/article/S1268-7731(14)00030-7/abstract (Level of evidence: 4)

11. Omoumi, P., de Gheldere, A., Leemrijse, T., Galant, C., Van den Bergh, P., Malghem, J., Simoni, P., Vande Berg, B.C. & Lecouvet F.E. (2010). Value of computed tomography arthrography with delayed acquisitions in the work-up of ganglion cysts of the tarsal tunnel: report of three cases. Skeletal Radiology, 39, 381 – 386. (Level of evidence: 4)

12. Abouelela, A.A., Zohiery, A.K. The triple compression test for diagnosis of tarsal tunel syndrome. Elsevier The Foot, 3, 2012, 146-149. http://www.thefootjournal.com/article/S0958-2592(12)00020-X/abstract (Level of evidence: 2b)

13. http://www.physio-pedia.com/Tinel%E2%80%99s_Test

14. Kinoshita M, Okuda R, Yasuda T and Abe M. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome in Athletes. Am J Sport Med. 2006;34:1307-1312. (Level of evidence: 4)

15. Zheng, C., Zhu, Y., Jiang, J., Ma, X., Lu, F., Jin, X. & Weber, R. (2016). The prevalence of tarsal tunnel syndrome in patiens with lumbosacral radiculopathy. European Spine Journal, 25, 895 – 905. (Level of evidence: 2b)

16. Coraci, D., Ioppolo, F., Di Sante, L., Santilli, V. & Padua, L. (2016). Ultrasound in tarsal tunnel syndrome: correct diagnosis for appropriate treatment. Muscle & Nerve, 54 (6), 1148 – 1149. (Level of evidence: 2c)

17. Tu, P. & Bytomski, J.R. (2011). Diagnosis of Heel Pain. American Family Physician, 84 (8), 909 – 916. (Level of evidence: 5)

18. Kinoshita, M., Okuda, R., Morikawa, J., Jotoku, T. & Abe, M. (2001). The dorsiflexion-eversion test for diagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome. The Journal of Joint & Bone Surgery, 83 (12), 1835 – 1839. (Level of evidence: 2b)

19. Kotnis, N., Harish, S. & Popowich, T. (2011). Medial Ankle and Heel: Ultrasound Evaluation and Sonographic Appearances of Conditions Causing Symptoms. Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI, 32, 125 – 141. (Level of evidence: 4)

20. Rawool, N.M. & Nazarian, L.N. (2000). Ultrasound of the Ankle and Foot. Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI, 21 (3), 275 – 284. (Level of evidence: 5)

21. Antoniadis G., Scheglmann K. Posterior Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. 2008 Nov; 105(45): 776–781 (Level of evidence: 5)

22. Oh S, Meyer R. Entrapment neuropathies of the tibial nerve. Neurologic Clinic. 1999;Volume 17:593–615 (Level of evidence: 5)

23. Rodriguez D1, Devos Bevernage B, et al. Tarsal tunnel syndrome and flexor hallucis longus tendon hypertrophy. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res. 2010 Nov;96(7):829-31 (Level of evidence: 4)

24. John T.C. Lau, M.D., et al. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Review of the Literature. Foot & Ankle International March 1999 vol. 20 no. 3 201-209 (Level of evidence: 5)

25. Cheung Y. Normal Variants: Accessory Muscles About the Ankle. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am. 2017 Feb;25(1):11-26 (Level of evidence: 5)

26. Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AMR. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins; 2010: 617-618, 666-667 (Level of evidence: B)

27. Netter, FH. Atlas of Human Anatomy. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011: 529 (Level of evidence: B)

28. Kavlak, Y., & Uygur, F. (2011). Effects of nerve mobilization exercise as an adjunct to the conservative treatment for patients with tarsal tunnel syndrome. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 34(7), 441-448 (Level of evidence 1b)

29. Digiovanni, B. F., Nawoczenski, D. A., Malay, D. P., Graci, P. A., Williams, T. T., Wilding, G. E., & Baumhauer, J. F. (2006). Plantar fascia-specific stretching exercise improves outcomes in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 88(8), 1775-1781. (Level of evidence: 2b)

30. Martin, R. L., & Irrgang, J. J. (2007). A survey of self-reported outcome instruments for the foot and ankle. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 37(2), 72-84. (Level of evidence: 5)

31. Eechaute et al. The clinimetric qualities of patient-assessed instruments for measuring chronic ankle instability: A systematic review. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2007, 8:6 doi:10.1186/1471-2474-8-6 (Level of evidence: 1a)

32. Hunt, K. J., & Hurwit, D. (2013). Use of patient-reported outcome measures in foot and ankle research. J Bone Joint Surg Am, 95(16), e118. (Level of evidence: 1a)

33. Brandon Plyler, Maiela Martinez, Caleb Melde, Matt Gieringer. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Clinical Management Guideline. Texas State University, Department of Physical Therapy. August 2012. http://ptcoop.org/texas-state-ebp-tarsal-tunnel-syndrome/ (Level of evidence: 5)

34. Godges J, Loma L. Ankle Nerve Disorder: Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. KPSoCal Orthopedic PT Residency. http://xnet.kp.org/socal_rehabspecialists/ptr_library/09FootRegion/07Ankle&Foot-RadiatingPain.pdf. (Level of evidence: 5)

35. Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of Subcalcaneal Heel Pain: A Case Report
John Meyer, DPT, Kornelia Kulig, PT, PhD, Robert Landel, DPT, OCS (Level of evidence: 4)

36. Joe Godges PT, Robert Klingman PT: Tarsal Tunnel Release. Loma Linda University DPT Program KPSoCal Ortho PT Residency. (Level of evidence: 5)

37. Dr. Karen Hudes, BCs, BS, DC: Conservative management of a case of tarsal tunnel syndrome. (Level of evidence: 4)

38. Baghla DP, Shariff S, Dega R. Calcaneal osteomyelitis presenting with acute tarsal tunnel syndrome: a case report. J Med Case Rep. 2010 Feb 23;4:66. doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-4-66 (Level of evidence: 4)

39. Bailie, D.S. & Kelikian, A.S. (1998). Tarsal tunnel syndrome: diagnosis, surgical technique, and functional outcome. Foot & ankle international, 19(2), 65-72. (Level of evidence: 4)