Navicular Fracture(Tarsal Navicular Fracture)
by
Krisha McCoy, MS DefinitionA navicular fracture is a fracture of the navicular bone of the foot, a bone on the top of the midfoot. Athletes are particularly susceptible to fractures of the navicular bone. (There is also a navicular bone in the wrist.)
Causes TOPA navicular fracture can be caused by a fall, severe twist, or direct trauma to the navicular bone. It can also be caused by repeated stress to the foot, creating a stress fracture unrelated to acute trauma. Risk Factors TOPFactors that may increase the chance of a navicular fracture include:
Symptoms TOPNavicular fracture may cause:
Diagnosis TOPYour doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done, which will include a thorough examination of your foot. Imaging tests evaluate the foot and surrounding structures. These may include: Treatment TOPTalk with the doctor about the best treatment plan. Treatment options include: Nonsurgical TreatmentMost cases of navicular fracture respond well to being placed in a cast that holds the bones in place. Crutches will be needed to help with walking. Once the bone has healed, a rehabilitation program can help with the return to normal activities. SurgeryIn rare cases of severe fracture, you may need surgery to realign the bone. This involves placing a metal plate and/or screws or pins to hold the bone in place. You will need to wear a cast or splint after the surgery. You will also need to use crutches to help you walk. Prevention TOPTo help reduce your chance of a navicular fracture (or other foot fractures):
RESOURCES:Foot Care MD—American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/Pages/footcaremd.aspx Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Orthopaedic Association http://www.coa-aco.org/patient/public-information.html When it Hurts to Move—Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://whenithurtstomove.org References:Coris EE, Lombardo JA. Tarsal navicular stress fractures. Am Fam Physician. 2003;67(1):85-91. Stress fractures of the foot and ankle. Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated March 2015. Accessed August 30, 2017. Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM Last Updated: 9/30/2013 | |
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