Getting into a motor vehicle accident can be a very scary occurrence. Not only is it very stressful, but it can also cause a physical injury to the body, especially the feet. When a car gets into a collision, it is likely that the body of the car is crushed in and sometimes the passenger in the car suffers from that impact. One common traumatic injury that can occur from a car accident is called a Lisfranc injury.

The Lisfranc joint is the area of the foot where the long metatarsal bones and the arch bones connect. There is also a ligament in this area known as the Lisfranc ligament. Its job is to hold these bones together and to aid in flexibility and mobility.

Cause

Automotive accidents, military members, runners, jockeys and horseback riders, football players and athletes in other contact sports are all at risk for this injury. This is because Lisfranc injuries occur from a traumatic force on the foot.

3 Types of Lisfranc Injuries

1. Sprains can plague the Lisfranc joint. When the muscles are stretched out and weakened, they can cause a sprain which has symptoms that include pain, inflammation and joint instability.
2. Fractures occur when a small piece of the bone chips off or when the fracture penetrates the whole bone on the midfoot. It can be very painful and often needs an x-ray for diagnosis.
3. If there is enough force, the Lisfranc bones can be forced away from each other and become dislocated. A podiatrist can help set these bones back into place.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain when pressure is applied
• Unable to bear weight on foot
• Bruising
• Blistering
• Foot suddenly becomes wider

Treatment Options

A Lisfranc injury should be treated by a trained podiatrist as soon as possible. If the injury worsens, it can permanently affect a person’s overall mobility.  A podiatrist may suggest some of the following treatments to help heal this type of injury.

• Immobilization – this prevents the foot from moving around and aids in the healing process.
• Over-the-counter or prescribed medications to help deal with pain and swelling.
• The use of ice and elevation to reduce swelling and pain.

Lisfranc injuries can be very painful, but they are treatable. If you suspect that you have sustained a Lisfranc injury, call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Joseph C. Stuto can diagnose your Lisfranc Injury. Call 718-624-7537and make an appointment today.