Definition of Tibial nerve dysfunction:

Tibial nerve dysfunction is a loss of movement or sensation in the foot from damage to the tibial nerve.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tibial nerve dysfunction is an unusual form of peripheral neuropathy. It occurs when there is damage to the tibial nerve, one of the lower branches of the sciatic nerve of the leg. The tibial nerve supplies movement and sensation to the calf and foot muscles.

A problem in function with a single nerve group, such as the tibial nerve, is called mononeuropathy. The usual causes are:

• Direct trauma
• Pressure on the nerve for a long period of time
• Pressure on the nerve from nearby body structures

Entrapment createes pressure on the nerve where it passes through a narrow structure.

The damage may destroy the myelin sheath that protects and insulates the nerve, or part of the nerve cell (the axon). This damage reduces or prevents the movement of impulses through the nerve.

The tibial nerve is often injured by pressure from a ligament on the inner part of the ankle. Injury or disease of structures near the knee may also damage the tibial nerve. The tibial nerve may also be affected by diseases that damage many nerves, such as diabetes.

In some cases, no cause can be found.