Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Accessory Navicular Syndrome
What is accessory navicular syndrome?
Accessory navicular syndrome occurs when an extra piece of bone or cartilage develops next to the navicular bone in the foot, leading to pain and discomfort.
The navicular is a bone located on the inside of the foot. An accessory navicular is an extra bone or piece of cartilage that forms next to the navicular. The posterior tibial tendon attaches at this same point, and the accessory navicular is situated within the tendon. Accessory navicular syndrome occurs when the extra bone, cartilage, or the posterior tibial tendon becomes irritated or painful.
How does accessory navicular syndrome happen?
An accessory navicular is a congenital (present from birth) condition and is relatively uncommon. Many people with an accessory navicular never experience any issues. However, some may develop accessory navicular syndrome, which can be caused by:
- Trauma or injury to the foot
- Repetitive stress or overuse, such as running or jumping
- Improper footwear that puts pressure on the inner foot
- Flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics that strain the posterior tibial tendon
- Inflammation or irritation of the accessory navicular bone or surrounding tendon
What are the symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome?
Accessory navicular syndrome can cause pain in the inner side of the foot, either suddenly after trauma or gradually if caused by overuse or other factors. Pain is typically worsened by activity, especially walking, running, or wearing tight shoes that put pressure on the area.
- Swelling over the inside of the foot, particularly over the navicular area
- Redness or warmth around the affected area
- Tenderness when pressing on the accessory navicular
- Pain that worsens with activity, especially running or walking
- Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably due to pressure on the inner foot
- Possible flattening of the arch or change in foot posture over time
What should I do if I have accessory navicular syndrome?
If you have or suspect accessory navicular syndrome, it is important to consult a physiotherapist who can relieve your symptoms and help prevent future problems. While awaiting treatment, you can apply ice to the inner side of your foot using a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a damp cloth for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours to reduce pain and inflammation.
Physiotherapy treatment for accessory navicular syndrome.
Physiotherapy can relieve symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome and help prevent re-occurrence in the future by addressing pain, improving foot mechanics, and strengthening the supporting muscles.
- Stretching exercises for the posterior tibial tendon and surrounding muscles
- Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle
- Orthotics or supportive footwear to reduce strain on the accessory navicular
- Ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
- Taping or strapping techniques to support the foot during activity
What shouldn’t I do if I have accessory navicular syndrome?
If you have or suspect accessory navicular syndrome, you should avoid activities that aggravate the condition, such as running or wearing footwear that irritates the area. Resting the affected foot is important to allow the symptoms to settle and for treatment to be effective.
Could there be any long-term effects from accessory navicular syndrome?
Physiotherapy treatment should resolve accessory navicular syndrome; however, the condition can still re-occur even after successful treatment. In such cases, physiotherapy can be repeated to address the problem. If the issue becomes repetitive or does not respond to physiotherapy, surgery may be considered, with the goal of removing the extra bone or cartilage to eliminate the problem entirely.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
