Dr. Jiwu Chen

Dr. Jiwu Chen
Back to Q&A

Accessory navicular syndrome

Should a painless accessory navicular be removed preventively?

Author: Dr. Jiwu Chen

Doctor’s answer

Usually not. This anatomical variant often remains asymptomatic. Medial arch tenderness, shoe irritation or tendon symptoms merit assessment and conservative care. Surgery is considered for persistent symptoms despite appropriate treatment, not an X-ray finding alone.

References and sources

  1. https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/accessory-navicular-syndrome-(1)
  2. https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/accessory-navicular

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.