What is the Os Tibiale Externum?
The Os Tibiale Externum is a small, extra bone found near the arch of the foot. More precisely, this bone sits on the inner side of the foot, close to the navicular bone, which is one of the tarsal bones. Most people do not have this extra bone, but it can appear in some people and occasionally cause pain or discomfort.
This extra piece of bone is not unusual and occurs in around 10 to 15% of the population. It often goes unnoticed, as it does not cause any symptoms in many cases. However, when problems do arise, this is known as Os Tibiale Externum syndrome. This can lead to pain and swelling in the affected area, especially after physical activity or wearing tight shoes.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of the Os Tibiale Externum is not fully understood. It is a congenital abnormality that develops during the formation of the foot in the womb. Some experts believe that a genetic predisposition may play a role, as it tends to appear more often in certain families.
Risk factors that can lead to symptoms are mainly activities that put a lot of strain on the foot. These include sports such as running, dancing, or football. Wearing poorly fitting shoes can also make symptoms worse. In some cases, an injury or overuse of the foot can irritate the Os Tibiale Externum.
Symptoms and possible consequences
Not everyone with an Os Tibiale Externum experiences symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are often felt as pain or tenderness on the inner side of the foot. Swelling and redness can also appear, particularly after physical activity.
In some people, the Os Tibiale Externum can affect how the foot works. In more severe cases, this can lead to a misalignment of the foot, which in turn may cause other problems such as flat feet or uneven pressure on the joints. Over time, this can lead to further discomfort in the foot, or even in the knee and back.
Diagnosis and examination methods
An Os Tibiale Externum is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging. An X-ray of the foot can show the extra bone and help rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. In some cases, an MRI or a CT scan may be needed to assess the exact condition of the bone and the surrounding tissue.
Treatment options
Treatment for an Os Tibiale Externum depends on how severe the symptoms are. In many cases, it is enough to reduce the strain on the foot and wear well-fitting, supportive shoes. Insoles can help to stabilise the foot and reduce pressure on the affected area.
For ongoing pain, anti-inflammatory medicines or physiotherapy can help to ease symptoms. In rare cases, when conservative measures do not bring relief, surgery may be considered to remove the extra bone and resolve the symptoms permanently.
Prevention and lifestyle changes
To avoid problems caused by an Os Tibiale Externum, it is important to look after your feet well. Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes can help to take the strain off the foot. Taking regular breaks and avoiding overuse are also helpful.
If you are physically active, it is worth supporting your feet with suitable footwear and targeted stretching exercises. Regular foot exercises can help to strengthen the muscles and improve the flexibility of the foot. This can reduce the risk of symptoms and help keep your feet healthy in the long term.
