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NAVICULAR BONE ANATOMY

Navicular bone anatomy 360-degree interactive viewer showing the boat-shaped tarsal bone with articular surfaces for talus and cuneiform bones

Navicular Bone - General Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL STRUCTURE

The navicular bone is located on the medial side of the tarsus, positioned between the talus behind and the three cuneiform bones in front. It plays an important role in connecting these structures and maintaining the integrity of the foot's arch. The name "navicular" derives from its boat-shaped appearance.

Location and Position

  • Located on the medial side of the tarsus
  • Positioned between the talus (posteriorly) and three cuneiform bones (anteriorly)
  • Forms a key part of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot

Articular Surfaces

  • Posterior surface:
    • Oval and concave
    • Articulates with the head of the talus
  • Anterior surface:
    • Convex from side to side
    • Divided into three facets
    • Articulates with the medial, intermediate, and lateral cuneiform bones
  • Lateral surface:
    • May present a small facet
    • Occasionally articulates with the cuboid bone

Dorsal Surface

  • Convex and rough surface
  • Provides attachment for ligaments

Plantar Surface

  • Irregular and rough surface
  • Provides attachment for portions of the plantar calcaneonavicular ligament

TUBEROSITY OF THE NAVICULAR

Navicular bone tuberosity 360-degree viewer showing the prominent medial surface projection, tibialis posterior insertion site, and groove between tuberosity and plantar process

Tuberosity of the Navicular Bone, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

The tuberosity of the navicular bone is a prominent bony projection on the medial surface. It serves as an important attachment point for the tibialis posterior tendon, one of the main muscles supporting the medial longitudinal arch of the foot.

Features of the Tuberosity

  • Rounded prominence on the medial surface
  • Easily palpable through the skin
  • Important landmark in clinical examination

Tibialis Posterior Insertion

  • Lower part provides insertion for a large portion of the tendon of Tibialis posterior
  • The muscle supports the medial longitudinal arch
  • Important in plantar flexion and inversion of the foot

Groove Feature

  • Features a groove between the tuberosity and the plantar process
  • Groove lodges part of the tendon of Tibialis posterior
  • Provides mechanical advantage for tendon function

Clinical Significance

  • Accessory navicular bone:
    • An additional ossification center may be present
    • Can cause pain with footwear pressure
  • Tibialis posterior dysfunction:
    • May lead to adult-acquired flatfoot deformity
    • Tenderness over the tuberosity is a clinical sign

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

⋮⋮ Navicular Bone Quiz
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