Tarsal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel. What is the roof of the tarsal tunnel?

• A Superior extensor retinaculum
• B Inferior extensor retinaculum
• C Flexor retinaculum (laciniate ligament) ✓
• D Peroneal retinaculum

Explanation

The tarsal tunnel is an osseofibrous tunnel located posterior and inferior to the medial malleolus. Its floor is the medial surface of the calcaneus and talus; its roof (ceiling) is the flexor retinaculum (also called the laciniate ligament), which stretches from the medial malleolus above to the medial surface of the calcaneus below. The tunnel transmits (from anterior to posterior): Tom, Dick And Nervous Harry — Tibialis posterior tendon, flexor Digitorum longus tendon, posterior tibial Artery (and vein), tibial Nerve, flexor Hallucis longus tendon. The tibial nerve divides into medial and lateral plantar nerves within or just distal to the tunnel.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.