Injuries to the Lisfranc joint or ligament are less common than other sports injuries. But now at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we find more patients are looking for information about this condition, probably thanks to quarterback Cam Newton of the Caroline Panthers. Earlier this season Newton was sidelined with a Lisfranc injury. Athletes who play contact sports like football are at a higher risk for Lisfranc injuries as are runners and horseback riders. This injury is also often seen in car accident victims.

Where Is the Lisfranc?

The Lisfranc joint is located in the middle of your foot where the arch bones are connected to the metatarsal bones (the long bones that go your toes). The Lisfranc ligament joins two of the joint bones together.

There are three types of Lisfranc injuries that can occur singly or in combination. These are:

  1. Fracture—one or more of the bones in the Lisfranc joint can break or a small piece of a bone may be pulled off. This is known as an avulsion fracture.
  2. Sprain—a twisting injury is usually the cause of a sprain which is an overstretching of the Lisfranc ligament. Since the Lisfranc and other ligaments on the bottom of the midfoot are stronger than the ones on top, a sprain can leave the joint unstable.
  3. Dislocation—a trauma or wrenching motion can force the joint out of its normal position.

What Are the Signs of an Injury?

Lisfranc injuries are sometimes mistaken for ankle sprains and that’s because there is some commonality of symptoms. When there is a Lisfranc injury, a patient may experience one or more of the following:

  • Pain in the midfoot when pressure is applied and when standing—in the case of a severe injury, you may not be able to bear weight on the hurt foot.
  • Blistering or bruising on the arch of the foot can be a distinguishing characteristic of a Lisfranc injury. There may also be blistering or bruising on the top of the midfoot.
  • Swelling.
  • Widening of the foot.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential that you contact our Cromwell office by calling (860) 632-5499 so that our podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas can examine the injured foot and make the appropriate diagnosis. While you wait for your appointment, stay off the hurt foot and ice the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416