The Lisfranc joint is the point at which the metatarsal bones (long bones that lead up to the toes) and the tarsal bones (bones in 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.
The symptoms most commonly found from a Lisfranc injury are swelling, pain throughout the mid foot, and sometimes the inability to bear weight without severe pain.
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.
The treatment depends on the severity of the condition.
At a minimum immobilization, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, ice and elevation are indicated.
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 is, the less chance that 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 isn’t managed early enough.
Don’t ignore the pain in this pivotal part of your foot.
To Healthy Feet,
