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Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Accessory Navicular Syndrome

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for accessory navicular syndrome, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Understanding accessory navicular syndrome and your options.

An accessory navicular is an extra piece of bone or cartilage on the inner side of the foot, next to the main navicular bone. It is present from birth in some people. It becomes a problem, called a syndrome, when it gets irritated and painful.

Symptoms often start in the teen years or after a twist or sports injury. Early care can help calm the area before the pain becomes a habit.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Accessory Navicular Syndrome care

Symptoms

Signs of accessory navicular syndrome.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    A bony bump on the inside of the midfoot

  • 02

    Redness or tenderness over the bump

  • 03

    Pain in the arch with activity

  • 04

    Soreness from shoes rubbing the bump

Why it happens

What can cause accessory navicular syndrome.

  • 01

    An extra bone present from birth

  • 02

    Rubbing from shoes or straps

  • 03

    Overuse in sports or long walks

  • 04

    A flat foot that pulls on the tendon attached to the bone

Care groupFlat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders

Diagnosis and care

How we treat accessory navicular syndrome.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We press on the bump and check the tendon on the inner foot for pain or weakness. A foot X-ray shows the extra bone clearly. MRI or ultrasound can show swelling around it if the cause is uncertain.

Step 2 · Treatment

Rest and ice can settle a flare. Padding and shoes that do not press on the bump reduce irritation, and arch supports can ease the pull on the tendon. A short time in a boot or cast helps some sore feet. Physical therapy may be added as pain improves.

If pain stays despite these steps, surgery can remove the extra bone and reattach the tendon. Many people never need it.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

Most people improve over several weeks to a couple of months with rest and support. After surgery, expect walking in a boot at first and a return to sports in about three months, though this varies.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if a bump on the inner foot is painful or keeps returning. Bring your teen in if arch pain is limiting sports or school.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Flat Feet, High Arches & Alignment Disorders.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Is the extra bone dangerous?

No. Many people have one and never know it. It only needs care if it hurts.

Will my child outgrow it?

The bone does not go away, but symptoms often ease with care and growth.

Get help with accessory navicular syndrome.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Accessory Navicular Syndrome care at 15 clinics.

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