Definition

A navicular fracture is a break in the navicular bone on the top of the midfoot.

Navicular Bone of the Foot Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Causes may be:

• A direct blow to the foot, such as from falling and landing heavily
• A severe twist
• Repetitive stress to the foot

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people who play high-impact sports, such as running, tennis, basketball, or gymnastics.

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Swelling and pain of midfoot
• Pain with activity, such as walking
• Pain that gets better with rest

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. You may be asked about any injury you have had or any activities that you do. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on your foot.

Images may be done of the foot. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• CT scan
• MRI scan

Treatment

It will take about 6 weeks for most people to heal. The goals of treatment are to manage pain and support the bone as it heals. This may include:

• Medicine to ease pain and swelling
• A cast to keep the bone in place as it heals
• Crutches to take weight off of the foot
• Exercises to help with strength and range of motion

Prevention

This problem cannot always be prevented. Starting a new sport slowly may help lower the risk of injury. Healthy bones and muscles may also help. This may be done through diet and exercise.