Navicular stress fracture is a common cause of stress fractures among athletes, especially those involved in sports with explosive actions such as jumping and sprinting.
It is vital to note that the navicular is one of the tarsal bones in the ankle. When it comes to a navicular stress fracture, it is usually due to overuse or repeated strain, usually from high-impact activities or sports such as hurdling, sprinting and jumping. Training errors or poor technique can also increase the likelihood of ending up with a stress fracture.
What are the signs?
The indications of this type of fracture include the following:
- Poorly localized foot pain, especially in the middle region that is aggravated by physical activity
- The discomfort might radiate throughout the interior foot arch and settles with rest but returns once activity is continued
- Evident tenderness can be felt if the thumb is depressed into the top part of the foot above the navicular bone
Management of a navicular stress fracture
The treatment for a navicular stress fracture is based on its severity. If the outer region of the bone did not fracture, it might require avoidance of weight bearing activities in a walking splint until the symptoms settled. This is followed by a gradual return to activity.
Once a stress fracture is diagnosed, full non-weight bearing in a full cast is required for up to 6 weeks. After this period, if the N spot on top of the navicular bone is tender, the cast is reapplied for another 2 weeks of non-weight bearing.
In case there is an evident separation of the navicular bone or the fracture did not recuperate, surgical intervention might be necessary to repair the bone with screws or pins.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a navicular stress fracture is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn how the injury is managed, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.