Do you experience vague pain or throbbing in the midfoot and arch, particularly after periods of activity? Perhaps you have noticed a visible bony prominence on the inner side of your foot, just above the arch. If so, it is possible that you have Accessory Navicular Syndrome.
The accessory navicular bone is an additional bone or piece of cartilage located on the inner side of the foot, just above the arch. This anatomical structure is present in a minority of people and is incorporated within the posterior tibial tendon which attaches in this area. Therefore, this bone should not affect normal foot function.
However, in some cases, people with an accessory navicular bone can experience Accessory Navicular Syndrome when there is irritation or inflammation of the bone or posterior tibial tendon. This typically occurs in people who have flat feet, as this anatomy puts more strain on the posterior tibial tendon, which can become aggravated.
Symptoms of Accessory Navicular Syndrome include a visible bony prominence, redness, and swelling of the affected area, and vague pain or throbbing in the midfoot and arch. Adolescents are particularly at risk of experiencing symptoms due to the growth and maturation of bones during adolescence.
If you are experiencing severe pain, it’s recommended that you seek the assistance of Dr Gilbert Huang DPM. A foot and ankle surgeon will begin by evaluating your symptoms, foot structure, muscle strength, and joint motion. X-rays are typically ordered to confirm the diagnosis, and if the patient is experiencing ongoing pain or inflammation, an MRI or other imaging tests may be necessary to further evaluate the condition.
If you are diagnosed with Accessory Navicular Syndrome, your podiatrist may recommend non-surgical treatments ranging from immobilization to physical therapy to custom orthotic devices. However, if these treatments fail to relieve your symptoms, surgery might be recommended. In these procedures, the accessory navicular bone is removed, and the posterior tibial tendon is repaired to improve its function.
In conclusion, Accessory Navicular Syndrome is a painful condition that can be managed with non-surgical treatments. However, surgery may be necessary in some cases. If you are experiencing symptoms of Accessory Navicular Syndrome, seeing Dr Gilbert Huang DPM can help diagnose and manage your symptoms while helping prevent recurrence. Remember, prompt treatment is essential in preventing long-term complications.