This injury involves a fracture, dislocation or ligament sprain to the middle of the foot. This is a very important area of the foot as there are a group of small bones that form the arch shape of the foot. If there is any fracture or ligament injury it can affect the midfoot. These bones are connected to each other in this arch shape by a group of ligaments called the Lisfranc ligaments.The lisfranc joint complex is responsible for stabilizing the foot's arch and walking.
Some common causes are
- Falls
- Twisting injuries
- Dropping a heavy object on the foot
- Low Energy Injury
- Direct trauma which can cause a more severe injury
- Falling from a height
Symptoms to look for
- Top of the foot could be swollen and painful
- Swelling at the top of the foot and pain
- Bruising may be seen on the bottom and top of the foot
- Pain that increases with standing, walking or pushing off with the affected foot
Seek treatment if you notice any of these symptoms or if standard treatment such as rest, ice and elevation do not relieve the pain.
Diagnosis
- Physical exam to look for swelling and bruising around the foot.
- X-ray. Your physician will most likely request the x-ray to be done weight bearing in order to properly diagnosis a lisfranc sprain.
- MRI
- CT Scan. Your physician will most likely request the x-ray to be done weight bearing in order to properly diagnosis a lisfranc sprain.
Risk Factors
- Seen in athletes involved in football and soccer
- Car Crash
Treatment
Non-operative Lisfranc Fracture/Dislocation Treatment
- If the ligaments are partially torn and the bones have not been dislocated out of position, the patient will be fitted with a cast or boot for about six weeks.
- When the cast or boot is removed, the patient may need a rigid arch support in their shoes to prevent re-injury.
- Physical Therapy to regain strength and range of motion
Surgical
- Internal Fixation
- Fusion
Since Lisfranc Injuries cause damage to the cartilage of the midfoot this can cause problems within the joints and their ability to move smoothly. Severe injury to the lisfranc joint that is not treated with surgery can lead to cartilage damage and increased stress in the midfoot joint. This can result in the collapse of both the arch and also can lead to arthritis.
