What is a Lisfranc Injury?
The midfoot is very important because it stabilizes the arch and evenly distributes calf muscle forces across the foot. The midfoot is made up of several bones and ligaments known as the Lisfranc complex or the Lisfranc joint. A Lisfranc injury is an injury to the Lisfranc joint. Injuries include bone fractures and/or ligament tears.
Common Causes:
- A low-impact twist and fall
- Direct trauma
- Motor vehicle accident
Symptoms of a Lisfranc injury may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
A Lisfranc injury should be seen by an Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) specialist as soon as possible. Delaying a diagnosis may make the injury and symptoms worse. An OPA specialist obtains an injury history, performs a physical examination, and orders and analyzes medical imaging studies to diagnosis a Lisfranc injury. Non-weight bearing and weight bearing x-rays show midfoot bones. An MRI shows midfoot bones and ligaments. After the location and severity of the injury are determined, a customized treatment plan is prescribed.
When diagnosing a Lisfranc Injury, the OPA specialist will provide:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options treat mild to moderate Lisfranc injuries:
RICE Method
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation decrease pain and swelling.
NSAIDs
Decrease inflammation and pain.
Immobilization
A cast, splint, or removable boot immobilizes the foot so fractured bones and/or torn ligaments can heal.
Surgical treatment may be recommended to treat severe Lisfranc injuries. An open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) procedure uses a plate and screws to put fractured bones and ligaments together. In some cases, a fusion procedure may be used to fuse bones—limiting movement but stopping the pain.
