Usually, the clinical findings and symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome are quite abstract. It can be challenging to get an accurate diagnosis. MRIs have a way of showing clearly the anatomy of the tarsal tunnel and its contents. MRI can demonstrate a space-occupying lesion and its relationship to the posterior tibial nerve and its branches.
This information aids in surgical planning by determining the extent of the decompression required. It can also be used to follow up on non-surgical causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome, such as tenosynovitis.