A Lisfranc injury affects the middle of the foot, where bones and ligaments connect the forefoot with the midfoot. This injury can range from a stretched ligament to a fracture or joint displacement. Symptoms include midfoot pain, swelling, and difficulty putting weight on the foot. Bruising on the bottom of the foot can be a warning sign. Because Lisfranc injuries can resemble a sprain, evaluation is important after injury.
A Lisfranc injury may occur when the foot twists while the body moves in another direction. Falls, car crashes, and sports injuries can create enough force to damage the Lisfranc joint complex. Risk increases with activities or trauma. Injuries are subtle and may seem manageable. Without treatment, an injury can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, or foot deformity. A podiatrist may use an examination and X-rays to evaluate for alignment. An MRI or CT scan may be recommended when the injury is difficult to see.
Lisfranc surgery may be needed when the joint is unstable, bones are displaced, or the injury cannot be maintained in proper alignment without fixation. During surgery, the podiatrist or foot and ankle surgeon realigns the bones. Screws, plates, or fixation devices may be used to hold the joints in position while they heal. The approach depends on the fracture pattern and joint damage. Some patients may require fusion when joints are damaged or cannot be restored reliably.
After treatment, protecting the foot is important for healing. Your podiatrist may recommend immobilization and restricted weight-bearing during recovery. Follow-up appointments and imaging tests can help confirm that the bones and joints remain aligned. As healing progresses, your podiatrist can guide a return to activities and footwear. Treatment can help protect foot function and reduce complications. If you have sustained a Lisfranc fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Jeff Brooks of Oceanside Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside and Temecula, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
