If you experience pain in your foot when standing or walking, consult a foot doctor for help. With an examination, they might discover you have a Lisfranc joint or ligament injury. This fracture or tear in the midfoot region can also cause swelling, bruising, and widening of the foot. To correct the problem now and take precautions in the future, learn more about Lisfranc injuries below.

How Do They Happen?

The Lisfranc joint is located in the midfoot region, where the metatarsal and tarsal bones meet. The Lisfranc ligament secures the bones together. Hurting the midfoot in any way can result in a Lisfranc injury. This is often the case when athletes kick a ball incorrectly or take a tumble on the field. Injuries can also occur when you trip on a step or make contact with the ground incorrectly while running. 

The incident could stretch the Lisfranc ligament, making it difficult for the joint to support the bones’ correct alignment. The impact from hitting the midfoot can also cause dislocated bones in the joint or cause them to chip or crack through.

How to Treat Lisfranc Injuries

A foot doctor will take X-rays to determine whether Lisfranc joint bones are broken or the ligament is damaged. After assessing the severity of the injury, the foot doctor may set the injured foot in a cast and give you crutches. This takes pressure off the foot to avoid pain while walking.

They could also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, recommend icing the injured area, or have you try physical therapy to let the injury naturally heal. Surgery might be recommended to repair dislocated, torn, or fractured ligaments.

To find out whether you have a Lisfranc injury or another condition causing foot pain, schedule an exam at Advanced Foot Care Center of Rochester in Monroe County, NY. With over three decades of experience, these physicians will pinpoint the cause of the foot, arch, or heel pain and provide non-surgical or invasive treatment to restore mobility. Learn more about these foot doctors online and call (585) 249-0020 for assistance at the Fairport or Rochester locations.