Understanding Lisfranc Injuries: Symptoms and Treatment

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Lisfranc Injuries: A Comprehensive Guide

A Lisfranc injury, often referred to as a Lisfranc fracture or Lis Franc break, is a foot injury involving the bones and ligaments of the midfoot. These injuries, named after the French surgeon Jacques Lisfranc de St. Martin, can result from trauma, sports injuries, or even a simple misstep. This guide will delve into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and Lisfranc injury treatment options, and the recovery process for Lisfranc injuries.

Defining Lisfranc Injuries

Lisfranc injuries, also known as Lis fractures or Le Franc fractures, affect the midfoot region, specifically the Lisfranc joint complex or tarsometatarsal joint, which connects the long bones to the metatarsal bones of the foot. This joint plays a crucial role in maintaining foot stability and mobility. While relatively rare, representing about 0.2% of all fractures, they are more common in sports like football, soccer, and horseback riding, which involve sudden foot twists or direct trauma. A Lisfranc injury can also be caused by high-energy forces, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents, and present with symptoms like pain, swelling, bruising, and potential difficulty in walking.

Lisfranc Injury

Identifying Causes and Risk Factors

Understanding the causes and risk factors of Lisfranc injuries, or Lisfranc disease, aids in prevention and management. The primary cause is trauma, often resulting from a direct blow to the foot or a sudden twisting motion. These Lisfranc injuries or Lisfranc fractures are common in sports, accidents, or falls. 

Several factors increase the risk of Lisfranc injuries:

• Variations in foot structure, such as a high arch or a wider foot
• Participation in high-impact sports or activities involving quick direction changes or jumping
• Prior foot or ankle injuries, which may weaken the ligaments
• Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or stability

While anyone can experience a Lisfranc injury fracture, recognizing these risk factors can help with prevention measures.

Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing Lisfranc injury symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment. Common signs of a Lisfranc injury or Lisfranc break include pain and swelling in the midfoot, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and potential instability. If you notice any abnormal movements in the midfoot, seek medical attention.

Diagnosis of a Lisfranc injury or Lisfranc disease typically involves physical examinations, imaging tests, and sometimes, specialized procedures. X-rays are commonly used to assess foot structure and identify Lisfranc fractures or dislocations. In some cases, CT scans or MRIs may be used for a more detailed view. Stress tests or diagnostic injections may be recommended to evaluate the stability of the Lisfranc joint.

Exploring Treatment Options

Lisfranc injury treatment varies with the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health. Non-surgical treatment is often the first approach for mild injuries (i.e. sprains), focusing on reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation, and promoting healing. This may include immobilization, rest, ice, elevation, and physical therapy.

However, severe cases or non-responsive Lisfranc injuries may require Lisfranc surgery to realign the bones and stabilize the joint. Indications for Lisfranc surgery include displaced fractures, multiple Lisfranc fractures, severe ligament damage, joint instability, and failure to respond to conservative treatment. It’s vital to consult with a qualified orthopedic specialist for appropriate Lisfranc injury treatment.

Lisfranc Injury

Understanding Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from a Lisfranc injury, whether treated with Lisfranc surgery or not, can be a lengthy process. Factors such as the severity of the Lisfranc fracture and the individual’s overall health significantly influence the recovery timeline. Key aspects of managing recovery from a Lisfranc injury include:

Rest and Immobilization: Protecting the foot from further damage is crucial, and your healthcare provider may recommend using a cast, splint, or walking boot.

Physical Therapy: Physiotherapy is vital in regaining strength, mobility, and function once the initial healing phase is complete.

Gradual Weight-Bearing: Your healthcare provider will guide you in gradually increasing weight-bearing activities. This process may involve using crutches or a walking aid initially and slowly transitioning to full weight-bearing as tolerated.

Orthotics and Footwear: Orthotic devices or specialized footwear may provide additional support and stability during the recovery phase.

Proper care and adherence to the treatment plan are essential for a successful recovery from Lisfranc injuries.

Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute

At JOI Online, our dedicated healthcare providers specialize in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including heel pain. Don’t delay in seeking help, contact us today to schedule an appointment and find the relief you deserve.

Related Links: Fixing Ankle Arthritis: Total Ankle Replacement, Hammer Toes, What are Bunions and How Do You Fix Them? and this video on Achilles Tendon injuries. 

By: Dr. Turner Vosseller, Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

Dr. Vosseller is an Internationally Recognized Orthopaedic Surgeon who practices at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute San Marco Clinic, and he is currently accepting new patients.  JOI is Northeast Florida’s most respected orthopedic practice. To schedule an appointment, please call 904-JOI-2000 or click below to schedule online. Dr. Vosseller is a noted leader in minimally invasive techniques in the foot and ankle and has performed hundreds of surgeries using these techniques.