Navicularthritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the navicular bone, also known as the scaphoid bone, located in the wrist. The navicular bone is one of the eight small carpal bones that make up the wrist joint. It is responsible for maintaining stability and facilitating smooth movements of the wrist.
Navicularthritis typically results from wear and tear or repetitive stress on the wrist joint. This condition commonly affects individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive wrist movements, such as typing, playing musical instruments, and sports like tennis or golf. It may also develop as a result of trauma, such as a fracture or dislocation of the navicular bone.
Symptoms of navicularthritis often include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the wrist. Activities that require bending or twisting the wrist may exacerbate the discomfort. In advanced stages, the joint may become stiff, limiting the range of motion and affecting daily tasks.
Navicularthritis is typically diagnosed through physical examinations and imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), that can help evaluate the extent of inflammation and damage to the navicular bone. Treatment options for navicularthritis may include conservative approaches, such as rest, immobilization with a splint or brace, physical therapy exercises, and over-the-counter pain medications. In severe cases or when conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered to repair or stabilize the navicular bone and the surrounding structures.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of navicularthritis can help alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and preserve wrist joint function. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.
Navicular disease, podotrochilitis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "navicularthritis" is composed of the root words "navicular" and "arthritis".
1. Navicular: It originates from the Latin word "navicula", meaning "little ship" or "boat", referring to a small bone in the foot called the navicular bone. The term "navicular" is used in anatomical contexts to describe structures that resemble a boat or have a boat-like shape.
2. Arthritis: It derives from the Greek word "arthr-" meaning "joint" and the suffix "-itis" denoting an inflammation. Arthritis is a general term used to describe inflammation of one or more joints.
Put together, "navicularthritis" refers to inflammation or arthritis of the navicular bone or the joints surrounding it.