WHAT IS A LISFRANC INJURY?
A Lisfranc Injury occurs at the Lisfranc joint: the point at which the metatarsal bones (long bones that lead up to the toes) and the tarsal bones (bones inside the arch) connect. Ligaments join these bones together. This is important for maintaining proper alignment and strength of the joint.
Injuries to the Lisfranc joint most commonly occur in automobile accidents, military personnel, runners, horseback riders, football players, and participants of other contact sports, or something as simple as a misstep on a staircase.
Twisting the foot is an indirect force that can cause a Lisfranc injury. A direct force involves something heavy falling on the foot.
There are three types of Lisfranc injuries, which sometimes occur together:
- Sprains
- Dislocations
- Fractures
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms most commonly found from a Lisfranc injury are swelling, pain throughout the midfoot, and sometimes the inability to bear weight without severe pain.
DIAGNOSIS
To make the proper diagnosis, x-rays are needed at a minimum and sometimes more advanced imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI are necessary.
TREATMENT
The treatment depends on the severity of the condition. At the minimum, immobilization, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, ice, and elevation are needed. A more severe case might need a cast boot and non-weight-bearing on the injured side. Surgery is only necessary when there is a dislocation or a severe fracture.
Complications can often arise following a Lisfranc injury. Like many other foot and ankle conditions, the earlier the diagnosis and faster the treatment, the less likely a long-term complication will develop.
Long-standing pain in the middle part of the foot could be from a Lisfranc condition. Incurable arthritis could set in if the condition is not managed early enough.
If you think you may have a Lisfranc injury, call our office as soon as possible to get scheduled with one of our specialists so we can treat the condition properly and provide long-term relief.
