Navicular Drop Test is used to assess what condition?

• A. Flatfoot (pronation)
• B. Ankle instability
• C. Achilles rupture
• D. Metatarsal fracture

Answer: (A)

This test measures how much the arch of the foot collapses when you bear weight, reflecting pronation or flexible flatfoot. The navicular tuberosity is used as a marker of arch height; as you go from sitting (no weight) to standing (weight-bearing), you measure the height of that point from the floor. The difference between the two measurements is the navicular drop. A larger drop means the medial longitudinal arch is not maintaining height under load, which corresponds to excessive pronation and flatfoot. Normal values vary, but a drop around 10 mm or more is commonly considered abnormal.

This test specifically targets arch support and pronation, not other issues like ankle instability, Achilles tendon rupture, or metatarsal fracture, which involve different structures and signs and are assessed with other tests or symptoms.