Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
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J Am Podiatr Med Assoc · Sep 2014
Case ReportsSchwannoma of the posterior tibial nerve: case study.
Schwannomas are rare, slow-growing, benign tumors consisting of Schwann cells. They may cause pressure along a bony structure, resulting in increased pain and discomfort. Less than 1% of schwannomas become malignant, and localization in the foot is uncommon (2%-3% of reported cases). ⋯ Schwannomas can occur after trauma, especially if the posterior tibial nerve or its branches are affected intrinsically or extrinsically, leading to discomfort, pain, and numbness along the tarsal tunnel. Also, unique to this case, a schwannoma may occur along the small branches of the posterior tibial nerve and present anatomically superior to the flexor retinaculum.