Overview

Causes

A navicular fracture may be caused by:

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

Risk Factors

A navicular fracture is more common in people who do high impact sports, such as running, tennis, basketball, or gymnastics.

SymptomsandDiagnosis

Symptoms

Problems may be:

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

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. Questions may also be asked about any injury you have had or any activities that you do. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the foot.

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

  • X-ray
  • CT scan
  • MRI scan

Treatments

Treatment

It can take 6 weeks to heal. The goal of treatment is to help the bones heal properly to prevent long term problems.

Support

Support for all fractures can include:

  • Medicine to ease pain and swelling
  • A cast to support the bones as they heal
  • Crutches to allow movement with less stress on injured bones
  • Exercises to help with strength, flexibility, and range of motion

Surgery

Some people may need surgery when other methods do not help. A metal plate and screws or pins will be used to reconnect the pieces of bone and hold them in place. This is not common.

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.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Edits to original content made by Denver Health.