Lisfranc Injury Explained: What Athletes Need to Know
Lisfranc injuries, named after French surgeon Jacques Lisfranc, involve the midfoot where the tarsal and metatarsal bones connect.
These injuries range from sprains to severe fractures and dislocations, commonly seen in athletes and following trauma.
They can significantly impact mobility and require careful diagnosis and treatment.
In this article, we cover what you need to know about Lisfranc injuries, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Keep reading to learn more about this complex foot injury.
What is a Lisfranc injury?
A Lisfranc injury refers to damage or dislocation of the joints in the middle of the foot, specifically the Lisfranc joint complex.
Lisfranc injuries most commonly occur when the forefoot is dorsiflexed (toe bent up and a force is applied downwards through the heel such as a fall, a sports-related incident, or a car accident.
This injury can result in ligament tears, fractures, or dislocation of the bones in the midfoot region. It’s important to recognise Lisfranc injuries as they can be easily mistaken for sprains.
If left untreated or undiagnosed, they can lead to long-term complications and chronic pain. So, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention from a podiatrist if you suspect a Lisfranc injury.
What are the common signs and symptoms of a Lisfranc injury?
Lisfranc injuries can present a range of signs and symptoms.
You may experience immediate pain and swelling in the middle of the foot, particularly on the top or bottom.
Walking or bearing weight can be challenging due to the discomfort. You might notice bruising on the top or bottom of the foot, and some individuals may have difficulty moving or bending their toes.
It’s also common to feel a sense of instability or the foot giving way.
Remember, if you have any concerns or experience these symptoms after a foot injury, it’s crucial to consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How are Lisfranc injuries diagnosed by podiatrists?
Diagnosing Lisfranc injuries involves a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests.
During the physical examination, a podiatrist will carefully evaluate the foot, checking for tenderness, swelling, and any abnormal alignment.
They may perform specific tests to assess the stability and mobility of the Lisfranc joint complex.
X-rays are commonly used to visualise the bones and determine if there are any fractures or dislocations.
In some cases, additional imaging tests like CT scans or MRI scans may be ordered to get a more detailed view of the injury.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial as it guides the podiatrist in developing an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
What treatment options are available for Lisfranc injuries?
The treatment for Lisfranc injuries depends on the severity of the injury and the extent of damage.
In mild cases, non-surgical approaches like immobilisation with a cast or boot, along with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and the later use of supportive orthotics, may be sufficient.
However, more severe cases may require surgery to realign and stabilise the affected bones and joints. Surgical intervention often involves the use of screws, plates, or other fixation devices to hold the bones in place as they heal.
Following surgery or immobilisation, a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy is typically recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the foot.
The treatment plan will be tailored to your specific condition, and your podiatrist will guide you through the process, ensuring the best possible outcome.
How long is the recovery period for a Lisfranc injury?
The recovery period for a Lisfranc injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the chosen treatment approach.
In mild cases managed without surgery, the recovery time can range from several weeks to a few months. This period allows for the injured structures to heal and regain strength through a combination of immobilisation, rest, and physical therapy.
For more severe cases that require surgical intervention, the recovery period is typically longer, spanning several months. After surgery, a period of immobilisation is usually followed by gradual weight-bearing and rehabilitation exercises.
It’s important to note that everyone’s healing process is unique, and the specific timeline for recovery will be determined by your individual circumstances. Your podiatrist will closely monitor your progress and provide guidance throughout the recovery period.
What are the potential long-term effects of untreated or improperly treated Lisfranc injuries?
Untreated or improperly treated Lisfranc injuries can lead to long-term complications and persistent issues.
Without appropriate treatment, the injured foot may develop chronic pain, instability, and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. Untreated Lisfranc injuries can also increase the risk of developing arthritis in the affected joints, causing ongoing discomfort and limited mobility.
Additionally, the altered biomechanics resulting from an untreated Lisfranc injury can lead to other foot and ankle problems, such as stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, or tendon issues. To prevent these long-term effects, it’s crucial to seek early and accurate diagnosis, as well as follow the recommended treatment plan provided by your podiatrist.
Proper treatment and rehabilitation significantly improve the chances of a successful recovery and minimise the risk of long-term complications.
Are there any specific risk factors that increase the likelihood of a Lisfranc injury?
While Lisfranc injuries can occur in various situations, certain factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing such an injury.
Engaging in high-impact sports or activities that involve sudden changes in direction, such as football, soccer, or gymnastics, can put individuals at a higher risk.
Additionally, wearing improper footwear that lacks support or stability can contribute to the occurrence of Lisfranc injuries.
Pre-existing conditions like flat feet or a history of foot injuries may also increase the susceptibility to Lisfranc injuries. It’s important to be mindful of these risk factors and take appropriate precautions, such as wearing supportive footwear, using protective equipment, and engaging in regular foot-strengthening exercises.
Consulting with a podiatrist can provide valuable guidance on injury prevention strategies tailored to your specific circumstances.
How can athletes prevent Lisfranc injuries during physical activities?
Athletes can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of Lisfranc injuries while participating in physical activities. Here are some preventive measures to consider:
Choose proper footwear: Wear sports-specific shoes that provide adequate support, stability, and cushioning for your specific activity. Make sure the shoes fit well and offer proper arch support.
Gradual training and conditioning: Build up your intensity and duration gradually to allow your muscles, tendons, and ligaments to adapt and become stronger over time.
Warm-up and cool-down: Prioritise warm-up exercises before starting your activity to prepare your muscles for the demands of exercise. Cool-down stretches can help prevent muscle tightness and promote flexibility.
Balance and proprioception training: Incorporate exercises that improve balance, coordination, and body awareness. This can enhance stability and reduce the risk of sustaining injuries.
Cross-train and vary activities: Engage in a variety of exercises and sports to avoid overuse injuries and to ensure that different muscle groups are engaged. Cross-training helps to reduce the repetitive stress on specific areas of the foot and lower the risk of developing a Lisfranc injury.
Maintain strong foot and ankle muscles: Incorporate exercises that specifically target the muscles of the feet and ankles into your training regimen. This can help improve stability and support for the Lisfranc joint complex.
Be cautious on uneven surfaces: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially when participating in outdoor activities. Uneven terrain can increase the risk of tripping or twisting your foot, potentially leading to a Lisfranc injury.
Listen to your body: If you experience pain or discomfort during physical activity, it’s important to listen to your body and take appropriate breaks. Pushing through pain can increase the risk of sustaining an injury, including Lisfranc injuries.
Regular check-ups with a podiatrist: Schedule regular visits with a podiatrist who can assess your foot health, identify any potential risk factors, and provide guidance on injury prevention techniques specific to your needs.
What rehabilitation exercises and therapies are recommended for recovering from a Lisfranc injury?
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in recovering from a Lisfranc injury.
Once cleared by your podiatrist, a gradual and supervised exercise program can help restore strength, flexibility, and function to the injured foot. Some commonly recommended exercises and therapies include:
Range of motion exercises: Perform gentle movements to improve the flexibility and mobility of the foot and toes. This may include ankle circles, toe curls, and toe stretches.
Strengthening exercises: Gradually introduce exercises that target the muscles of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. This may involve resistance band exercises, calf raises, and towel scrunches.
Balance and proprioception training: Engage in exercises that challenge your balance and improve body awareness. This can include standing on one leg, using a balance board, or performing stability exercises on an unstable surface.
Gait retraining: Work with a physical therapist to ensure proper walking and running mechanics to reduce stress on the Lisfranc joint complex during weight-bearing activities.
Functional exercises: As you progress in your rehabilitation, incorporate exercises that mimic the activities you participate in, such as jumping, cutting movements, and agility drills.
Remember, the rehabilitation process should be tailored to your specific needs and guided by a healthcare professional or physical therapist. They will monitor your progress, adjust the exercises as necessary, and provide ongoing support throughout your recovery journey.
Prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective rehabilitation are key to ensuring a successful recovery and reducing the risk of long-term complications. By implementing preventive measures and engaging in proper foot care, individuals can lower the chances of sustaining a Lisfranc injury during physical activities.
Take care of your feet with Hurst Podiatry
When it comes to addressing Lisfranc injuries and other foot-related concerns, it’s essential to seek the expertise of a trusted podiatrist.
At Hurst Podiatry in Melbourne, our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to providing personalised care and comprehensive treatment options for foot injuries, including Lisfranc injuries.
Whether it’s accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, or guidance throughout the rehabilitation process, Hurst Podiatry is committed to helping you regain optimal foot function and get back to the activities you love.
Remember, your foot health matters, and taking the necessary steps to prevent and address Lisfranc injuries can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hurst Podiatry for expert care and support for your foot-related concerns.
You can book in to see us by calling us on 03 8799 4426 for our Kilsyth clinic, 03 5901 2216 for Healesville, orbooking online here.
