It’s Best to Treat Lisfranc Injuries Early: MD Podiatrist

 
 
According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Injuries to the Lisfranc joint most commonly occur in automobile accidents, military personnel, runners, horseback riders, football players and participants of other contact sports, or something as simple as a misstep on a staircase. Twisting the foot is an indirect force can cause a Lisfranc injury. A direct force involves something heavy falling on the foot. There are three types of Lisfranc injuries, which sometimes occur together: sprains, dislocations, and fractures.”
 
 
“The symptoms most commonly found from a Lisfranc injury are swelling, pain throughout the midfoot, and sometimes the inability to bear weight without severe pain. To make the proper diagnosis, x-rays are needed at a minimum. Sometimes, more advanced imaging studies, such as a CT scan or MRI, are necessary. The treatment depends on the severity of the condition. At a minimum, immobilization, NSAIDs, ice, and elevation are indicated. A more severe case might need a cast boot and non-weight bearing on the injured side. Surgery is only necessary when there is a dislocation or a severe fracture,” says Dr. Michaels.