The Painful Journey: Accessory Navicular Surgery and Post-Op Recovery

Are you familiar with anyone who has undergone surgery for an accessory navicular? I recently had to undergo such a procedure, and it was a long and difficult journey. The surgical procedure involved removing the accessory navicular and reshaping the bones, repairing the tendon, and even inserting a prosthetic arch to support the foot.

A Personal Experience

Eight years ago, I had to undergo surgery to address an accessory navicular. The process involved several steps, including bone removal, bone reshaping, and tendon repair. Additionally, a prosthetic arch was inserted, and a cadaver tissue and skin graft were used to enhance recovery. The healing process was extremely long, and I had to go through regular stitches removal and new casts every week. This was a challenging and time-consuming endeavor.

Exploring Surgical Options

Feeling pain in an accessory navicular can be distressing, as it may lead to limited mobility and discomfort. Unfortunately, not all foot doctors are eager to perform surgery. After consulting with four different foot specialists, I realized that no one was keen on operating due to the high risks involved. As a former surgical tech student, I remember learning about the complexities of foot surgeries. The foot is composed of numerous tiny bones, and the hardware used for repair can be small and challenging to fit properly.

One of the suggestions I received was to get fitted for orthotics. However, foot pain is a major issue that needs to be addressed first. Doctors typically recommend wearing a cast for six weeks during the fitting process, but this is not viable when the foot is swollen. Additionally, recent swelling can affect the accuracy of the orthotic fitting.

Coping with Recurring Pain

The pain associated with an accessory navicular can be significant and persistent. In my case, the pain became so severe that it significantly impacted my daily activities. I was informed that there might be a possibility of a tendon or ligament forming between the bones to cushion them, potentially alleviating the pain caused by bone-on-bone friction. However, this does not always provide relief.

Seeking Alternative Solutions

Diagnosing an accessory navicular can be challenging, as an X-ray might not always reveal the severity of the condition. Pain is a subjective experience, and its intensity can vary from person to person. Unfortunately, the pain often persists, making it difficult to find relief.

To those who are considering surgery for their accessory navicular, I offer my sincere empathy. The surgery process is not without risks, and recovery can be slow. It’s essential to consult with a specialist who can guide you through the process and help you make informed decisions based on your specific condition and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Dealing with an accessory navicular can be a challenging and painful experience. While it’s understandable to want a definitive solution, the road to recovery is often full of complexities and uncertainties. Make sure to carefully weigh the options and seek the advice of knowledgeable medical professionals to navigate your journey to better foot health. If you decide to undergo surgery, I hope your experience is as positive as possible, and I look forward to hearing about your recovery process.