Lisfranc Injuries

A Lisfranc injury occurs when bones or ligaments in the midfoot are sprained, torn, or fractured. The Lisfranc joint complex connects the metatarsals (forefoot) to the tarsal bones (midfoot), playing a critical role in supporting your foot arch and stabilizing every step.

Symptoms

• Severe pain and swelling in the top of the foot
• Inability to bear weight on the affected foot
• Bruising on the top and bottom (sole) of the foot
• Visible deformity or widening of the midfoot in severe cases

Causes

Lisfranc injuries result from direct impact or indirect twisting forces, commonly caused by high-impact trauma (car accidents, severe falls) or sports injuries where the foot is twisted while planted.

Risk Factors

Participation in contact sports (football, soccer), horseback riding, or high-velocity athletic pursuits increases the risk of sustaining a midfoot injury.

Diagnosis

Our specialists perform a thorough physical exam and order diagnostic imaging—including X-rays, weight-bearing views, CT scans, or MRIs—to evaluate bone alignment and ligament damage.

Treatment

• Non-Surgical: Rest, immobilization in a cast or boot, and physical therapy for simple sprains without displacement.
• Surgical: Realignment with pins, screws, or plates (or joint fusion) for severe fractures or ligament tears.