A navicular fracture is a break to one of the tarsal bones in the foot. The navicular is located on the medial (inside part) of your foot. Injuries to the navicular typically occur from overuse or a traumatic injury.
Symptoms
- Pain & swelling in the midfoot on the medical side.
- Tenderness
Causes
- Mostly occurs in adolescents
- High-level athletes
Diagnosis
- Your doctor will discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a thorough physical examination of your foot and ankle.
- An X-ray will identify the type and severity of the fracture.
- CT scan: If a fracture is suspected but did not appear clearly on an x-ray, a CT scan can also be performed. CT scans will also show surrounding soft tissues and blood vessels.
- MRI: A MRI can be performed to identify small fractures and associated ligament injuries.
Treatment
- Nonoperative: Cast immobilization and non weight bearing
- Surgery may be needed and your surgeon would discuss those options with you.
