Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome (Posterior Tibial Nerve Entrapment)

DC 8525Neurological38 CFR 4.124a, DC 8525 — Posterior Tibial Nerve Paralysis

Compression of the posterior tibial nerve at the ankle causing burning pain, tingling, and numbness in the sole of the foot. Common from prolonged standing and marching. Rated based on nerve paralysis severity.

Rating Levels

Severe incomplete paralysis — you have significant sensory loss in the foot, weakness of toe flexion, and difficulty walking.

What the VA looks for

Significant sensory loss in the sole of the foot
Weakness of toe flexion on examination
Difficulty walking documented by provider
Severe nerve conduction study abnormalities of the posterior tibial nerve
Gait abnormality documented on examination

Common Pitfalls

⚠Being misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis — tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve entrapment, not a soft tissue condition. Make sure your provider distinguishes between the two.
⚠Not getting EMG/NCS of the posterior tibial nerve — this is the key objective test to confirm the diagnosis and its severity.
⚠Not connecting the condition to military marching, running, or prolonged standing duties — these are common causes in service.
⚠Not documenting night-time burning pain — this is a hallmark symptom that distinguishes tarsal tunnel from other foot conditions.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Peripheral Nerves Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…