Lisfranc Injury

The midfoot is an important structure within the foot that assists in absorbing forces that come from activities like walking, running and jumping. When patients come see us here at Dallas Podiatry Works and need treatment for a midfoot injury, they often have one of the common Lisfranc injuries. In severe cases, these injuries can take several months to heal properly, but recognizing the problem and receiving early treatment can keep it from worsening.

Basic Foot Anatomy

Knowing a bit about basic foot structure can allow you to better understand Lisfranc injuries and what can be done for them. In this particular issue, our focus is on the Lisfranc joint complex, which is formed by the bones and ligaments that connect the midfoot to the forefoot.

The midfoot is responsible for stabilizing the foot arch, and it does this with the use of the tarsal bones. In the forefoot, we find the long, thin bones (metatarsals) that lead up to the toes. At the point where the metatarsal and tarsal bones meet, we find the Lisfranc ligament that connects them. This tough band of connective tissue provides strength for the joint and keeps the bones properly aligned.
Plano Podiatrist Shares Midfoot Injury & Treatment

Lisfranc Injury Symptoms and Causes

The most obvious signs of a Lisfranc injury are bruising (found either in the top or bottom of the foot), swelling in the top of the foot, and pain that progressively worsens with physical activity or even while standing.

Injuries in this area are sustained from either direct or indirect forces on an affected foot. Many times, an injury occurs in response to excessive twisting (especially in sports like soccer or football) or from a fall from height. In athletic participation, a midfoot injury will often happen when an athlete has his or her foot planted in a downward, flexed position and then stumble over the top of it. In the case of direct trauma, there can be multiple fractures and dislocations in the Lisfranc joint complex.

Types of Lisfranc Injuries

There are three different forms of Lisfranc injuries, and any might be sustained either independently or as a combination with another. These types of injuries are:

Fractures – There are various ways bones in the complex can become fractured, including avulsion fractures (where a tiny piece is pulled away from the main bone) or outright breaks.
Dislocations – In some cases, bones are forced out of their intended positions by excessive physical force.
Sprains – When ligaments in the Lisfranc complex become strained, it can lead to instability within the joint.

Conservative Treatment Options for Lisfranc Injuries

First aid steps for treating a Lisfranc injury includes the use of ice, elevation, and rest to both protect the injured areas from further damage and to reduce pain and swelling. Further options, depending on the nature of the injury, that we may prescribe include oral medication, immobilization, and physical therapy. Immobilization may entail a cast or crutches to keep bodyweight off the area.

Lisfranc Surgery and Recovery

Surgery may be a recommended part of treatment, depending on the severity and nature of the midfoot injury. Surgical procedures that might be used include fixation and fusion. When internal fixation is performed, bones are lined up in their proper places and then secured with the use of screws and/or plates. After about 3 to 5 months, the screws and/or plates will be removed to allow for increased movement.

Fusion is an option that is more commonly used for severe cases that are damaged beyond other means of repair. This procedure will fuse damage bones together, and the will heal into a single, solid piece. In the event that screws or plates are used for fusion, they will not likely be removed.

Effective Lisfranc Injury Treatment in Dallas-Fort Worth

Whether we use conservative or surgical methods for your Lisfranc injury here at Dallas Podiatry Works, you can be assured that our goal is to provide optimal pain relief and restored functionality of your foot. Contact us by calling us at 972.853.7100 or schedule an appointment with either our Plano or Dallas, TX offices online today.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.