Tibial nerve dysfunction

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Neuropathy - tibial nerve


Symptoms
  • Sensation changes on the bottom of the foot
    • Numbness, tingling, or other abnormal sensations
    • Burning sensation
    • Pain
  • Weakness of the knee or foot, difficulty with walking

Signs and tests

Neuromuscular examination of the legs shows tibial nerve dysfunction. There may be weakness or inability to push the foot downward (plantar flexion). Severe cases may cause wasting of the foot muscles and foot deformity.

Tests that reveal tibial nerve dysfunction may include:

  • EMG (a recording of electrical activity in muscles)
  • Nerve conduction tests (recording of electrical activity along the nerve)
  • Nerve biopsy

Tests are done based on the suspected cause of the dysfunction suggested by the patient's history, symptoms, and pattern of symptom development. They may include various blood tests, x-rays, scans, or other tests.



Review Date: 03/26/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)