Which test evaluates the difference in navicular height between seated and standing to assess arch function?

Which test evaluates the difference in navicular height between seated and standing to assess arch function?

• A. Navicular drop test
• B. Anterior drawer test
• C. Thompson test
• D. Syndesmosis squeeze test

Answer: (A)

Measuring how the arch changes when weight is added. The navicular drop test looks at the difference in height of the navicular bone from a seated position to a standing (weight-bearing) position. By marking or palpating the navicular tuberosity and then comparing its vertical position between sitting and standing, you can quantify how much the arch collapses under load. A larger drop indicates a more pronated, flexible arch, while a small or no drop suggests a stiffer or higher arch. This helps assess arch function and the presence of flexible flatfoot. Other tests assess different structures in the ankle rather than the arch. The anterior drawer test evaluates the stability of the anterior talofibular ligament. The Thompson test checks the integrity of the Achilles tendon by observing plantarflexion after squeezing the calf. The syndesmosis squeeze test looks for injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis by compressing the leg. These do not measure navicular height or arch function.

Measuring how the arch changes when weight is added. The navicular drop test looks at the difference in height of the navicular bone from a seated position to a standing (weight-bearing) position. By marking or palpating the navicular tuberosity and then comparing its vertical position between sitting and standing, you can quantify how much the arch collapses under load. A larger drop indicates a more pronated, flexible arch, while a small or no drop suggests a stiffer or higher arch. This helps assess arch function and the presence of flexible flatfoot.

Other tests assess different structures in the ankle rather than the arch. The anterior drawer test evaluates the stability of the anterior talofibular ligament. The Thompson test checks the integrity of the Achilles tendon by observing plantarflexion after squeezing the calf. The syndesmosis squeeze test looks for injury to the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis by compressing the leg. These do not measure navicular height or arch function.