Lisfranc Fracture or Dislocation
Description
Named after the French war surgeon who first described it, this condition ranges from minor (strained or torn ligaments) to major (dislocation or fracture). This is an injury of the middle part of the foot, 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.
Animations
Lisfranc Fracture or Dislocation
Causes & Triggers
This is an injury of the middle part of the foot, 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.
- High-impact injuries, such as high falls or car accidents
- Twisting or falling while participating in football, soccer or similar sports
Signs & Symptoms
You may mistake a Lisfranc injury for a simple sprain. But it’s more severe than a sprain. Expect pain and swelling. And the top and bottom of your foot may bruise. The pain gets worse with activity.
- Bruising (top and bottom of foot)
- Desire or need to use crutches for moving about
- Pain (top of foot)
- Persistent bruising on bottom of foot
- Swelling (top of foot)
- Worsening pain with walking or standing
Tips & Treatment
In some cases, a Lisfranc injury can be treated with a cast or boot. But most often, this injury needs to be corrected with surgery and physical therapy. Your healthcare provider will create a plan that’s right for you.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- While common, this condition can be difficult to see on an X-ray and may be misdiagnosed as a sprain.
- Improperly diagnosed or untreated Lisfranc fractures may cause serious complications.
