LisFranc (Midfoot) Fracture-Dislocation

What is a Lisfranc Injury?

This is an injury of the middle part of the foot, also called the Lisfranc, where the metatarsal bones of the forefoot connect to the cuneiform bones of the midfoot. It can involve torn ligaments, broken bones or a combination of both. And, it can involve more than one joint.

Lisfranc Injury (Midfoot Sprain) Causes

A Lisfranc injury can be caused by a simple slip or trip, especially if your foot twists as you stumble. Injuries can also occur during high-impact sports activities, such as football, soccer, or basketball, where sudden changes in direction or quick stops and starts can put excessive stress on the midfoot. Athletes participating in activities that involve running and jumping are particularly vulnerable to these types of injuries. Other common causes include:

• Heavy objects falling on the foot or by a crushing injury
• People with conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis
• Certain foot shapes, such as those with a long second toe or a flat arch
• Repetitive stress, such as from activities like ballet or running

Symptoms of Lisfranc injuries

Lisfranc injuries are commonly mistaken for being a simple sprain, but they are more severe. Expect pain and swelling, and the top and bottom of your foot may bruise. Other symptoms include:

• You may feel a popping sound at the time of the injury
• You may experience difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
• The pain may be located in the midfoot area and may radiate to other parts of the foot
• The foot may appear deformed or abnormally shaped, especially if there is a dislocation or fracture involved
• In severe cases, there may be numbness or tingling in the foot, which can indicate nerve damage
• It is also possible to experience pain and swelling in the ankle joint, as well as difficulty moving the ankle joint

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury, so not all of these symptoms may be present in every case.

Treatment for Lisfranc injuries (Midfoot Sprains)

Lisfranc injuries can be challenging to treat, and the severity of the injury will determine the type of treatment necessary. In many cases, surgery is required to realign and stabilize the bones in the midfoot. During the surgery, the surgeon may use screws, plates, or other hardware to hold the bones in place while they heal. In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure called percutaneous fixation may be used.

Recovery for Lisfranc injuries (Midfoot Sprains)

After surgery, you may need to wear a cast, splint, or a special shoe to keep the foot immobilized during the healing process. The length of time you need to wear the cast or splint will depend on the extent of the injury and the success of the surgery. You will likely need to use crutches or a wheelchair to help you move around while the foot heals.

Physical therapy is also an important part of the treatment process. It can help to restore strength and flexibility to the foot and ankle and to prevent complications like chronic pain, arthritis, or instability. Your physical therapist will create a customized program to help you regain full function of your foot.

Full recovery from a Lisfranc injury can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the injury and your overall health.

Lisfranc Injury (Midfoot Sprain) Frequently Asked Questions