Did you know that some people have extra bones in their feet? It’s a common anatomical variation, and many people live their whole lives without ever realizing they have them. Sometimes, though, these extra bones can cause problems.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of extra bones in feet, discussing the most common types, the symptoms they can cause, and the treatment options available. We’ll focus on one of the most frequent offenders: the accessory navicular.
When these extra bones in feet lead to pain, swelling, or other complications, they can significantly impact your foot health and overall quality of life. Knowing what to look for and what to do about it is key.
What is an Accessory Navicular?
Sometimes people are born with extra bones in their feet. One of the most common of these extra bones is called an accessory navicular bone.
An accessory navicular is an extra bone or piece of cartilage on the inside of your foot, just above your arch. It’s also sometimes called an os navicularum or os tibiale externum.
If you have an accessory navicular, you’re born with it, but it may not cause you any problems until later in life.
Types of Accessory Navicular
There are a few different types of accessory navicular bones:
- Type 1: A small, oval-shaped bone inside the posterior tibial tendon.
- Type 2: Connected to the navicular bone by a bridge of cartilage.
- Type 3: Fused to the navicular bone (also called a cornuate navicular).
Some types are more likely to cause pain and problems than others. Type 2 is the most common type to cause symptoms.
Accessory Navicular Syndrome: When the Extra Bone Causes Problems
An accessory navicular bone doesn’t usually cause any issues. However, there’s a condition called accessory navicular syndrome that can cause pain and discomfort. It happens when the extra bone becomes symptomatic. The posterior tibial tendon, which connects close to the navicular bone, can also become inflamed.
Accessory navicular syndrome can be triggered by:
- Trauma to the foot or ankle
- Overuse or repetitive activities
- Irritation from footwear
- Having flat feet, which places extra stress on the tendon and bone
Signs and Symptoms
If you have accessory navicular syndrome, you may notice:
- A visible bony bump on the inner side of your foot
- Pain and tenderness in the midfoot and arch
- Swelling and redness around the bony bump
- Pain that gets worse when you’re active
Symptoms of accessory navicular syndrome usually appear during adolescence or early adulthood.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
If you think you might have an extra bone in your foot, here’s what you can expect from the diagnostic and treatment process.
Diagnosis
The first step is a physical exam conducted by a doctor or podiatrist. They’ll examine your foot and ask about your symptoms.
Next, X-rays will likely be ordered to visualize the bones in your foot, including any accessory bones. In some cases, an MRI may be used to assess the posterior tibial tendon and other tissues around the extra bone.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many people find relief with conservative treatments. These include:
- Activity modification to reduce stress on the foot.
- Immobilization with a cast or walking boot.
- Icing the area to reduce swelling.
- Taking NSAIDs for pain relief.
- Wearing custom orthotics to support the arch.
- Participating in physical therapy to strengthen the posterior tibial tendon and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery might be necessary if non-surgical treatments don’t provide enough relief.
The Kidner procedure, which involves removing the accessory navicular bone and reattaching the posterior tibial tendon, is a common surgery for this problem. Other surgical options include bone reshaping or tendon repair.
If you’re considering surgery, it’s important to consult with a foot and ankle surgeon, as they’re experts in treating this condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you treat extra bone in your foot?
Treatment for extra bones in the foot, particularly accessory bones causing pain, varies. Often, conservative measures like orthotics, physical therapy, immobilization, and anti-inflammatory medications are tried first. Surgery is considered if these methods fail to provide relief.
What does an extra bone in your foot mean?
An extra bone in your foot, often called an accessory bone, is a congenital condition. This means you are born with it. It doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem. Many people live their entire lives without even knowing they have one! The problem arises when the extra bone causes pain or discomfort, typically due to injury or overuse.
Is it necessary to remove an accessory navicular bone?
No, removal of an accessory navicular bone is not always necessary. Surgery is typically reserved for cases where non-surgical treatments have failed to alleviate pain. Your doctor will assess your specific situation and determine the best course of action.
What causes extra bone growth in the foot?
Accessory bones are present from birth and are not “growth” in the typical sense of bone spur formation. They are simply extra bones that didn’t fuse properly during development. Bone spurs, on the other hand, can be caused by factors like arthritis, injury, or repetitive stress. It’s important to distinguish between these two conditions.
Closing Thoughts
Having an extra bone in your foot, also known as accessory navicular syndrome, is a common cause of foot pain. The good news is that most people with this condition find relief through non-surgical treatments.
If you’re experiencing foot pain, it’s important to see a doctor or podiatrist to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. With the right care, you can get back to your regular activities and start feeling better.