A cross-sectional study to assess the risk of tarsal tunnel syndrome among type 2 diabetes patients

Miraclin K, Marjorie and Idris, Mohammed (2025) A cross-sectional study to assess the risk of tarsal tunnel syndrome among type 2 diabetes patients. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 22 (2). pp. 192-211. ISSN 2582-5542

Aim: To assess the risk of tarsal tunnel syndrome among chronic diabetic patients. Objectives :1. Determine the risk of tarsel tunnel syndrome among chronic diabetic patients within the study population. 2. Investigate the relationship between diabetes – related variables (such as duration of diabetes, glycemic control) and the occurrence of tarsal tunnel syndrome.3. Associate the demographic variables with the risk of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Results: The prevalence of TTS in diabetic patients has been reported to range between 10% to 20%. Discussions: Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is an entrapment neuropathy affecting the tibial nerve, often underdiagnosed in diabetic patients. Diabetes-related peripheral neuropathy increases the risk of developing TTS due to nerve damage and metabolic changes. Several studies report a higher prevalence of TTS among individuals with long-standing diabetes and poor glycemic control. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent chronic pain and improve quality of life in affected patients. Conclusion: Male diabetic patients are more commonly affected by Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS), with prolonged diabetes (16–20 years) increasing the risk. Poor glycemic control (high HbA1c) and pre-diabetic states are strongly linked to TTS development. Thyroid dysfunction, especially hypothyroidism, further contributes to nerve compression risk in diabetics. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment improve outcomes and help prevent long-term complications.