Tarsal tunnel syndrome in rheumatoid arthritis

Recent reports suggest an increased incidence for the general population of tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), similar to that previously reported for carpal tunnel syndrome. Proof of this supposition could be important in the diagnosis and management of pain in the feet of patients with RA. Thirty-nine patients with a classical diagnosis of RA by clinical and laboratory criteria had electrodiagnostic studies performed on both posterior tibial nerves and other nerves as indicated. These tests found a 15% incidence of peripheral neuropathy and a 5% incidence of TTS in patients with RA.