NAVICULAR BONE ANATOMY

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 your foot's arch. The name "navicular" derives from its boat-shaped appearance.

Location and Position

Where is the navicular bone located?

• 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 your foot

Articular Surfaces

What are the articular surfaces of the navicular bone?

• 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

What does the dorsal surface of the navicular bone look like?

• Convex and rough surface
• Provides attachment for ligaments

Plantar Surface

What does the plantar surface of the navicular bone look like?

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

TUBEROSITY OF THE NAVICULAR

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 your foot.

Features of the Tuberosity

What are the features of the navicular tuberosity?

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

Tibialis Posterior Insertion

Where does the tibialis posterior insert on the navicular bone?

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

Groove Feature

What is the groove of the navicular tuberosity?

• 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

What is the clinical significance of the navicular bone?

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