How to Properly Treat a Lisfranc Injury

A Lisfranc injury may be an uncommon type of foot injury, but it can be severe and potentially debilitating when left untreated. It is caused by ligament damage or a dislocation of the joints in the midfoot, resulting in extreme pain and reduced mobility. If you have this type of injury, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent further damage and to ensure proper healing. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about a Lisfranc injury and how to accurately treat it.

The first and most crucial step in treating a Lisfranc injury is getting an accurate diagnosis. This type of injury can be difficult to diagnose, and a misdiagnosis can lead to severe complications, including chronic pain and arthritis. Therefore, it is essential to visit an orthopedic specialist who has expertise in treating this type of injury. They will perform a physical exam and imaging tests to determine the extent of the damage and come up with a treatment plan accordingly.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the primary goal is to reduce pain and inflammation. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) therapy can help achieve this goal. This therapy involves resting the affected foot, applying ice packs on the injury site, using a compression bandage, and elevating the foot above heart level. Pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs may also be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce swelling.

In some cases, a Lisfranc injury may require surgery to realign the bones and joints and restore normal function. The extent and type of surgical procedure will depend on the severity of the injury. In less severe cases, the surgery may involve inserting screws or pins to hold the bones in place. In severe cases, bone grafting and/or ligament reconstruction may be necessary to repair the damaged joints fully.

After surgery or initial treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary to restore strength and mobility to the foot. This therapy will involve exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles and tendons in the foot and ankle, improving flexibility and range of motion, and restoring proper gait and balance. The length of the rehabilitation process will depend on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment given.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, a Lisfranc injury is a severe and painful condition that requires immediate medical attention. Accurate diagnosis, proper treatment, and rehabilitation are essential to restore normal function and to prevent long-term complications. If you suspect that you have a Lisfranc injury, contact us at Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons in Deltona, FL, can provide the right diagnosis and treatment to help you recover fully.