Lisfranc Joint Injuries
An injury that affect the bones, ligaments and/or cartilage of the middle foot is also known as a Lisfranc injury. Some patients mistake pain in this area for a sprain, but a lisfranc injury can be severe in nature and requires immediate treatment to give a patient the best possible treatment options and results.
Causes
This injury can be the result of direct or indirect trauma. A Lisfranc joint injury can occur if the foot is crushed or as the result of a twisting fall. A car crash or a fall from a high place can also damage the joint complex located in the middle of the foot. A damaged lisfranc joint can include a fracture, dislocation, damaged cartilage and/or a torn ligament. Depending on how the injury occurred, nerves and arteries located at the top of the foot can also be negatively affected.
Lisfranc Injury Symptoms
An injury to the middle of the foot can vary greatly in severity. Injuries can range from a mild sprain to a combination of damage to the bones and joints in this area of the foot. The most common symptoms of a Lisfranc injury includes pain and swelling. Pain may be experienced in the entire foot or local to the mid foot. A person with this injury may not be able to put any weight on the injured foot. Bruising on the top and bottom of the foot is also fairly common.
Diagnosis
It’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible if you have injured your mid foot. A diagnosis will include a thorough physical exam, where a foot doctor will check for bruising, tenderness, pain and foot stability. X-rays will be ordered to identify bones that are factured or dislocated. A CT or MRI may also be ordered to further evaluate damage to the foot.
Treatment
If the injury is mild, immobilization is typically suggested. Immobilization is used as a treatment method for a month to two months or until the symptoms resolve. Ice and elevation may also be recommended.
If surgery is required, a foot surgeon may repair the damage using screw and metal plates or Kirshner wires. If the damaged to the bones is very severe, a joint fusion may recommended if the bones can’t be properly repaired. Complications can occur after surgery, including post-traumatic arthritis and the need for additional surgeries. An additional procedure may need to be performed to remove some of the screws and metals plates at a later date.
Podiatrist at Brooklyn Premier Orthopedics
At Brooklyn Premier Orthopedics, our podiatrist are highly experienced at treating foot injuries using conservative and surgical methods. If you have a foot or ankle injury, it’s in your best interest to see a physican right away to avoid further damage to the area. Call us today to schedule an appointment.