Does tarsal tunnel syndrome cause leg numbness and tingling?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome affects the tibial nerve as it travels behind the inner ankle. Symptoms commonly extend into the heel, sole, or toes rather than affecting the whole leg. They may feel like pins and needles, burning, electric shocks, or reduced sensation, and can worsen with standing or walking.

Numbness higher in the leg can instead involve a nerve in the lower back, pelvis, or elsewhere along the limb. A clinician will map the area affected and check reflexes, strength, sensation, ankle movement, and walking to locate the irritated nerve.

Book a clinical assessment if symptoms persist, return frequently, disturb sleep, or interfere with walking. Note whether the sensation reaches the sole or toes, whether it follows activity, and whether back pain or weakness occurs at the same time. Avoid tight footwear or activities that repeatedly compress the inner ankle until you have advice.

Treatment depends on the nerve location and cause. A plan may include activity changes, physiotherapy, footwear adjustments, or other measures selected after examination.

Seek urgent help for sudden numbness with facial or arm weakness, trouble speaking, loss of balance, or severe back pain with new bladder or bowel problems. Prompt assessment is also needed for rapidly spreading numbness, new foot weakness, inability to walk, or a cold or discoloured foot.

Where does the nerve irritation seem to be? Do my symptoms fit the tibial nerve near the ankle or a nerve from the back? Do I need tests? Which activities and footwear should I change while we investigate?