Lisfranc injuries are serious conditions affecting the midfoot, and they can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. At Ankle & Foot Specialists North Texas, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Lisfranc injuries to help you recover quickly and effectively. Here’s what you need to know about these injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What is a Lisfranc Injury?
A Lisfranc injury involves the ligaments and joints in the midfoot, specifically where the metatarsal bones connect to the tarsal bones. This injury can range from simple ligament sprains to complex fractures and dislocations. Named after Jacques Lisfranc, a French surgeon who first described this injury, Lisfranc injuries are often caused by trauma or severe twisting of the foot.
Causes
Lisfranc injuries can result from various scenarios, including:
- Direct Trauma: A heavy object falling on the foot or a direct impact during an accident.
- Twisting Injuries: Sudden twists or falls, especially common in sports like football, basketball, and soccer.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: The foot being twisted or crushed during a car crash.
- Missteps: Tripping or stumbling, leading to abnormal stress on the midfoot.
Symptoms of Lisfranc Injury
Recognizing the symptoms of a Lisfranc injury is crucial for timely treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain in the midfoot, especially when bearing weight
- Swelling and bruising on the top and bottom of the foot
- Difficulty walking or an inability to bear weight
- Visible deformity in severe cases
- Tenderness over the midfoot area
Diagnosing Lisfranc Injuries
A thorough examination by a podiatrist is necessary to diagnose a Lisfranc injury. This may include:
- Physical Examination: Assessing pain, swelling, and mobility of the midfoot.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to evaluate the extent of the injury and any associated damage to bones and ligaments.
Treatment Options
Treatment for Lisfranc injuries depends on the severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:
- Non-Surgical Treatments: For minor injuries, immobilization with a cast or boot, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), and physical therapy can promote healing.
- Surgical Interventions: Severe injuries often require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones and ligaments. Surgical options may include internal fixation (using screws and plates) or fusion (joining bones together) to restore the structure and function of the midfoot.
- Rehabilitation: Post-treatment rehabilitation involves physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the foot, ensuring a full recovery.
Recovery
Recovery from a Lisfranc injury can be lengthy and requires patience and adherence to your treatment plan. Key aspects of recovery include:
- Immobilization: Keeping weight off the affected foot with crutches or a wheelchair.
- Physical Therapy: Engaging in prescribed exercises to regain strength and mobility.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Slowly resuming normal activities as healing progresses.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you suspect a Lisfranc injury or are experiencing midfoot pain, don’t delay seeking professional care. At Ankle & Foot Specialists North Texas, our experienced team is dedicated to providing the expert treatment and support you need to heal effectively.
Call us at (903) 484-3668 or book your appointment now!
