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Tibial nerve dysfunction
Alternative namesNeuropathy - tibial nerve
DefinitionTibial nerve dysfunction is a loss of movement or sensation in the lower leg, caused by damage to the tibial nerve.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Tibial nerve dysfunction is a form of peripheral neuropathy . It occurs when there is damage to the tibial nerve, one of the branches of the sciatic nerve of the leg. The tibial nerve supplies movement and sensation to the calf and foot muscles.
The usual causes are direct trauma, prolonged pressure on the nerve, and compression of the nerve from nearby body structures. Entrapment involves pressure on the nerve where it passes through a narrow structure.
The damage may include destruction of the myelin sheath of the nerve or destruction of part of the nerve cell (the axon). Damage to the axon slows or prevents conduction of impulses through the nerve.
In some cases, no detectable cause can be identified. The mechanical factors may be complicated by ischemia (lack of oxygen from decreased blood flow) in the area.
Signs and testsNeuromuscular 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:
Treatment is aimed at increasing mobility and independent self-care. In some cases, no treatment is required and recovery is spontaneous.
Vocational counseling, occupational therapy, job changes or retraining, or similar interventions may be recommended.
Expectations (prognosis)If the cause of the tibial nerve dysfunction can be identified and successfully treated, there is a possibility of full recovery. The extent of disability varies, with partial or complete loss of movement or sensation. Nerve pain may be quite uncomfortable and persist for a prolonged period of time.
Calling your health care providerCall for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of tibial nerve dysfunction are present. Early diagnosis and treatment increases the likelihood that symptoms can be controlled.
PreventionPrevention is variable depending on the cause of the nerve damage.
Update Date: 5/8/2003Elaine T. Kiriakopoulos, M.D., M.Sc., Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Last updated: Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:20:03 GMT