Navicular Fracture

Patient Information

https://www.orthobullets.com/foot-and-ankle/7033/tarsal-navicular-fractures

GP Information

Background Information

• Navicular fractures may be traumatic (plantar flexion / eversion / axial loading) or stress fractures due to chronic overuse.
• Patients typically complain of midfoot pain and swelling.
• Examination may reveal midfoot swelling, tenderness to direct palpation over the navicular, with retained full ROM.

Investigation Guidelines

• Patients with suspected fractures should undergo imaging as part of a specialist assessment.

Management Recommendations

• All patients with suspected acute navicular fractures should be referred immediately to A&E for imaging and further management.
• Delayed traumatic presentations or suspected stress fractures should be referred to a local fracture clinic. Whilst awaiting a review the following conservative measures are recommended;
• PRICE
• NSAIDs
• Crutches to off load the injured leg.