Accessory Navicular

What is an accessory navicular?

Also known as os naviculare or os tibiale externum, an accessory navicular is an extra bone on the inside of the navicular (the bone in the middle of the arch of the foot) and within the posterior tibial tendon that attaches to the navicular bone.

Types of accessory navicular

Accessory ossicles or extra bones are common and most often are asymptomatic. There are more than 20 possible accessory bones in the foot and ankle.1

What are the symptoms of accessory navicular?

The main symptoms are pain during weightbearing, redness, and localized swelling in the medial (inside) arch of the foot in older children and adolescents. Sometimes, the pain may cause a limp or difficulty with wearing shoes.

How common is accessory navicular syndrome?

Approximately 10% to 14% of normal feet have an accessory navicular.2

Does accessory navicular syndrome get worse with age?

Accessory navicular syndrome does not get worse with age. If it goes untreated, symptoms may linger regardless of an individual’s age.

What causes accessory navicular syndrome?

Ill-fitting shoes, flat feet, foot/ankle sprains, or athletic overuse may cause accessory navicular syndrome. As children mature, the accessory navicular calcifies and becomes firm. This may cause direct pressure on the skin between the shoe and the accessory navicular. Sometimes, repetitive motion or sudden impact across the cartilage bridge between the accessory navicular and the navicular may become inflamed and irritate the middle of the arch causing persistent pain. Additionally, the posterior tibial tendon that attaches to the navicular may become irritated and inflamed.

Is accessory navicular genetic?

Accessory navicular can be transmitted from parent to child as an inherited trait. This has been shown in the literature through studies of families with multiple members who have the condition.3

How do you treat an accessory navicular?

Rest, especially after a sprain or overuse, along with ice, elevation, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may alleviate accessory navicular syndrome. Modifying shoe wear or inserting soft orthotics to eliminate direct pressure over the middle of the arch of the foot may also help. Physical therapy focused on calf stretching and ankle stabilization may provide additional relief. When all these measures fail, immobilization in a short leg cast or walking boot for 4 to 6 weeks may provide enough rest to the irritated region to eliminate symptoms.

When is surgery needed for accessory navicular?

If non-operative management fails and accessory navicular syndrome persists and/or interferes with everyday activities and participation in sports, the accessory navicular should be removed surgically. This is an outpatient procedure and generally requires four weeks of rest in a cast, splint, or walking boot.

Updated: 10/17/2023

Reviewed and updated by John S. Blanco, MD; Emily R. Dodwell, MD, MPH, FRCSC;
Shevaun Mackie Doyle, MD; and David M. Scher, MD