FE Analysis of the Symptomatic Navicular - A Case Report

Abstract

The accessory navicular (AN) is a bony formation located on the medial side of the foot, proximal to the navicular and continuous with the posterior tibialis tendon. It emerges as a developmental variant due to the presence of the secondary ossification center adjacent to the primary center of the navicular. It is regarded as a physiological and anatomical variant. In most instances, this is an incidental finding. Radiographic values are used to define three types of AN based on its relationship with the navicular. The symptomatic AN causes pain in the medial portion of the bone, a decreased range of motion and discomfort with shoe wearing. In case of recurrent symptoms, following an inadequate diagnosis and treatment, it can result in acquired flatfoot. Our case study examined the condition of asymptomatic AN in a young man with both flatfeet, who was initially treated conservatively, and then, after the failed response to the therapy, surgically. Following the Kidner procedure (excision with the reattachment of the insertion in the posterior tibialis tendon) and rehabilitation, the patient reports no subjective symptoms in the period of 12- month monitoring. An objective examination was conducted with the use of FE analysis during weight-bearing. We determined a reduction in total weight-bearing and the pressure distribution to the lateral side of the foot, metatarsal, and the heel region.