The Lisfranc joint is the area on the foot where the metatarsal bones connect to the rest of your foot. Thus, a Lisfranc fracture can be defined as a fracture on the joint of the foot. The area around this joint is very complicated as many bones, ligaments, and tendons join and hold the foot to keep it in its natural shape. This complex group of muscles ligaments, bones, & tendons also ensures proper movement of the foot.
The most common reason why you may end up hurting your Lisfranc joint is trauma or an accident. Besides this, sports injuries may also cause Lisfranc fractures in athletes. Any part of the Lisfranc joint can get injured. If surgery is required for the treatment of the fracture, locking bone plate, and screws may be required.
Is Lisfranc Fracture Serious?
If we measure the seriousness of Lisfranc fractures, then they are not life-threatening. But this doesn’t mean that they are not serious. The Lisfranc joint is an important joint that ensures trouble-free movement of your foot. So, when it gets injured, you will not be able to walk properly. Thus, it is important to get your foot examined if any injury to the joint occurs. A timely examination can help you prevent serious complications.
According to the reports, Lisfranc injuries are common but not many people get them diagnosed correctly. Even it also won’t be wrong to say that many cases of Lisfranc injuries are misdiagnosed. To get the condition diagnosed correctly, it is very important to tell the doctor about how you have suffered the injury and how you are feeling.
What Are the Causes of Lisfranc Fractures?
Sudden trauma can cause Lisfranc injuries, and anyone can suffer. Here are certain activities that may make you prone to Lisfranc injuries:
Sports Activities
Sports like football, soccer, and basketball can make athletes highly prone to Lisfranc injuries.
Running
Runners may also get Lisfranc fractures due to repetitive stress on their feet.
Diabetes or Nerve Damage
Any condition that makes your feet numb or reduces any sensation may minimize the chances of a feeling of pain. Hence, you may not be able to identify early symptoms of Lisfranc injuries and the condition may become worse.
What Are the Symptoms of a Lisfranc Injury?
A Lisfranc injury doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a fracture as it can be a tendon tear as well. The common symptoms associated with the injury may include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Inability to put weight on the injured foot
How is Lisfranc Injury Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of the condition often starts with a physical examination. Here, the doctor examines the range of motion of the joint along with the painful areas. To confirm the condition, imaging tests are ordered. The tests may include MRI, CT scan, or x-ray.
What is the Treatment for Lisfranc Injury?
The treatment of the condition depends on the type of injury. If there is a fracture, surgery may be required. Both surgical and non-surgical methods are available for the treatment.
Non-surgical Treatment
A boot or a cast may be applied for 6 to 12 weeks if a stable fracture is there, or ligaments are not too damaged. Besides this, it may also be advised to keep your foot elevated as much as possible. In such a case, you might need crutches to walk.
Surgery
In the case of severe bone and ligament damage, surgery might be required. To bring the foot back to its natural shape, the surgeon may apply orthopedic plates and screws. Lisfranc surgery is an outpatient procedure and hence, you can go home the same day.
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