The Association between Body Mass Index, HbA1c Levels, and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: A Clinical and Neurophysiological Study.

Abstract

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (TTS) is a focal compressive entrapment neuropathy affecting the posterior tibial nerve. While obesity and diabetes mellitus are known as systemic risk factors, their specific impact on TTS severity remains insufficiently investigated. We aimed to determine the association between body mass index (BMI), glycemic control (HbA1c level), and TTS severity. A cross-sectional study included 34 patients presented with signs and symptoms of TTS. For these patients, BMI was calculated, HbA1c levels were recorded, and clinical severity was evaluated using the Takakura scale and Mondelli's electrophysiological severity scale. There was a significant association between BMI, HbA1c level, and age with TTS severity both clinically and electrophysiologically (p < 0.05). Increases in age, BMI, and HbA1c levels were associated with a decrease in the rating scale and an increase in Mondelli's electrophysiological scale. There is a high prevalence of bilateral TTS. Higher BMI and elevated HbA1c levels are strongly associated with increased TTS severity. Obesity and diabetes are strongly correlated with the severity of TTS. Further studies are required to validate the correlations found.