Maybe it was a sudden twist or fall. Maybe it was when you stepped off the curb wrong last week. Regardless of the pain’s source, you can’t seem to brush it off. That’s because it’s not a simple sprain! In fact, you might be dealing with a Lisfranc injury.

This complex issue, often overlooked, involves the crucial joints and ligaments connecting your forefoot and midfoot. In the blog below, Advanced Foot Care of NJ will explain how Lisfranc injuries occur and how to spot their symptoms, too.

What’s the Lisfranc Joint (And Why Does It Matter?)

Think of the Lisfranc joint complex as the central hub of your foot’s arch. It’s where the long metatarsal bones (leading to your toes) connect with the tarsal bones in your arch.

Strong ligaments hold these bones together, providing essential stability and strength for walking and pushing off.
An injury to this area – whether a sprain, fracture, or dislocation – disrupts this vital structure.

How Lisfranc Injuries Happen

Lisfranc injuries are common in athletes who play high-impact sports like football, soccer, or gymnastics; after all, these activities involve forceful twists on a planted foot.

That said, Lisfranc injuries can happen to anyone, often due to:

Direct Force: Dropping something heavy directly onto the midfoot.
Indirect Force (Twisting): Stumbling downstairs, missing a curb, or even an awkward twist during everyday activities.
High-Energy Trauma: Car accidents and falls from significant heights.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Key Lisfranc Injury Clues

Watch for:

Pain in the midfoot that worsens when standing or trying to “push off.”
A “popping” sensation when you sustain the injury.
Swelling, usually noticeable on the top of the foot.
Bruising on both the top and, significantly, the bottom of the arch/midfoot.
Difficulty or severe pain when trying to put weight on the affected foot.

Why You Can’t Ignore Midfoot Pain: The Risk of Delay

Lisfranc injuries are notorious for being misdiagnosed as sprains. And unfortunately, that can lead people to delay action.

Individuals who fail to address a Lisfranc injury early can end up with serious long-term complications, including chronic pain and arthritis in the midfoot. The combination of these issues can potentially lead to significant disability.

Diagnosis is Key

A thorough examination by a podiatrist is essential. We’ll discuss how the injury occurred and examine your foot carefully. Imaging and X-rays are crucial to assess bone alignment.

Dealing with a Lisfranc Injury? We can help!

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!