The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Good News: I most likely do not need foot surgery.
Bad News: I was born with an accessory navicular bone (aka the rogue bone) that juts out. When something upsets this area, the connection between the navicular bone and this extra bone loosens, causing pain. This pain will probably come and go over the years, depending on my activities and footwear choices.
Ugly News: I’m being fitted for orthotics next week. These inserts will go in my sneakers and shoes. I also have to make sure I wear shoes with lots of arch support. So much for cute ballerina flats. 
If I don’t start to feel better in 3-4months of wearing orthotics, my doctor wants me to check in again. He feels pretty confident that this will help a lot, though. I was relieved that he wants me to be able to avoid surgery because apparently it would involve not only removing the rogue bone and reattaching the tendons, but also cutting out and moving my heel over. We’re talking six weeks on crutches, and maybe needing to do this in both feet. Not exactly a picnic.
At least now that I know what’s up, I can learn how to live with it and minimize negative effects. It’s so crazy that I’ve had this all twenty-five years of my life so far and only just found out about it. Apparently, accessory navicular bone is classified as a “rare disease” by the Office of Rare Diseases (I didn’t know there was one, did you?) and is estimated to affect 2-12% of the US population. Who knew? It’s nowhere near as cool as being a lefty, but hey…
As my mom put it, we all have our “stuff,” and if an extra foot bone happens to be my thing, I guess that’s not so bad. In the grand scheme of things, it’s almost kind of funny.
Keeping It Real Food 
July 28, 2011 at 11:46 pm
aww, that’s a bummer! If it makes you feel any better, I wear custom orthotics too and actually love them! I wear ballet flats with some Dr. Scholls inserts – not as supportive as the orthotics but they’re ok for work and stuff. Love my ballet flats!
July 29, 2011 at 12:03 am
That’s an awesome idea. I’m actually really intrigued by this whole custom orthotics process. I’m going on Tuesday to get fitted, and I’m already thinking of all the shoe-related questions I’m going to ask lol
July 29, 2011 at 12:13 pm
Hi Jess – I am so glad to hear it’s not something on the more serious side. The shoe insert should be a great relief for your beautiful feet. The idea of surgery is never pleasant so we’ll keep you in our thoughts and send good energy to your feet. I love the injure heal oil so I’m going to get you some and give it to you Mom. Next time I see you I’ll tell you about Brian’s broken toe. Love and big HUGS! Noo
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