The tarsal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the inside of your ankle, formed by ankle bones and a strong band of ligaments (the flexor retinaculum) that stretches across the foot. It serves as a crucial conduit for vital structures.
Understanding the Tarsal Tunnel
Think of the tarsal tunnel as a protected highway for important structures traveling from your leg into your foot. This includes:
- Tibial Nerve: This nerve provides sensation to the sole of your foot and controls some of the muscles in your foot.
- Posterior Tibial Artery and Vein: These blood vessels supply blood to the foot.
- Tendons: Specifically, the tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles, which help with foot and toe movement.
Location and Structure
- Location: Inside the ankle, behind the medial malleolus (the bony bump on the inside of your ankle).
- Boundaries: The tarsal bones form the floor of the tunnel, and the flexor retinaculum acts as the roof, holding everything in place.
Significance
The tarsal tunnel is significant because it's a confined space. If any of the structures within the tunnel become compressed or irritated, it can lead to a condition called Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. This condition can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the foot, similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist.
