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Are You Ignoring the Silent Pain in Your Feet? Discover Tarsal Navicular Stress Fractures!
Published: Sep 25, 2023
The tarsal navicular bone in your foot can suffer stress fractures without you even realizing it. Learn about the common signs and risks associated with this often-overlooked condition.
Understanding the Tarsal Navicular
The tarsal navicular acts like a keystone, crucial for the foot's arch and stability. It connects with multiple bones, making it a vital part of the foot’s structure. Unfortunately, due to its biomechanical role and blood supply, it's particularly vulnerable to stress fractures.
Who’s at Risk?
Athletes, especially runners and those in high-impact sports, are most at risk for navicular stress fractures. Poor training routines, unsuitable footwear, and anatomical quirks like high arches can all increase risk. Interestingly, female athletes face a higher risk.
Spotting the Symptoms
Symptoms usually start as a mild, persistent pain in the midfoot, worsening with activity and easing with rest. Often, the pain is hard to pinpoint, making it tricky to diagnose. If ignored, it can lead to more severe issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a crack in the navicular bone of the foot caused by repeated stress rather than a single injury.
Athletes, especially runners and women, are at high risk.
Persistent midfoot pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Yes, by using proper footwear and training techniques.
They often present with vague symptoms and are hard to see on regular X-rays.
Key Takeaways
If you're experiencing persistent midfoot pain, it's essential to consider a navicular stress fracture.
References
- Sammarco GJ, Hockenbury RT. Biomechanics of the foot and ankle. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2001.
- Jones MH, Amendola AS. Navicular stress fractures. Clin Sports Med 2006; 25:151.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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