Category: Midfoot

Lisfranc injury

A Lisfranc injury is a type of foot injury that occurs when there is a fracture or dislocation of the bones in the midfoot, where the metatarsal bones meet the tarsal bones. This area is known as the Lisfranc joint complex, and it is responsible for the stability of the foot during walking and other activities.

Lisfranc injuries can range from mild to severe, and may include sprains, fractures, or dislocations. They are most commonly caused by a twisting or bending force applied to the foot, such as a fall or a direct blow to the foot. Athletes who participate in high-impact sports, such as football or basketball, are at increased risk of Lisfranc injuries.

Symptoms of a Lisfranc injury may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. If left untreated, a Lisfranc injury can lead to chronic foot pain, instability, and arthritis.

Treatment for a Lisfranc injury depends on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries may be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), as well as the use of a cast or walking boot to immobilise the foot. More severe injuries may require surgery to realign the bones and stabilise the joint.

Recovery from a Lisfranc injury can take several months, and may require physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength to the foot. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation in order to prevent long-term complications and ensure a successful recovery.

Jacques Lisfranc

Jacques Lisfranc was a French surgeon and gynaecologist who lived from 1790 to 1847. He is most well-known for his contributions to the field of orthopaedics, particularly in the area of foot and ankle injuries. Lisfranc is credited with describing a fracture-dislocation injury that occurs in the midfoot, which is now known as the Lisfranc injury or Lisfranc fracture. This injury involves a dislocation of the joint that connects the midfoot and forefoot bones, along with a fracture of one or more of these bones. The Lisfranc injury can be a serious and debilitating injury that often requires surgery to correct. In addition to his work in orthopaedics, Lisfranc also made significant contributions to the fields of obstetrics and gynaecology, developing new surgical techniques and instruments.

Bursitis

Bursitis in the foot refers to inflammation of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and help reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles.

Symptoms of bursitis in the foot may include:

  • Pain and tenderness around the affected joint
  • Swelling and redness in the area
  • Limited movement or stiffness in the joint
  • Warmth or a feeling of heat in the area
  • A popping or clicking sensation in the joint

Bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, injury, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is most commonly seen in the heel or ball of the foot.

Treatment for bursitis in the foot involves resting and protecting the affected area, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain. In some cases, physical therapy or corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and improve range of motion.

Preventing bursitis in the foot involves wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning, gradually increasing activity levels to avoid overuse injuries, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joints.

Arch pain

Arch pain is a common condition that can occur due to a variety of reasons. It is characterised by pain or discomfort in the arch or underside of the foot. Some common causes of foot arch pain include:

  1. Plantar fasciitis: This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed. It is often associated with pain in the arch of the foot.
  2. Flat feet: Flat feet occur when the arch of the foot collapses or is absent, which can cause pain and discomfort in the arch.
  3. Overuse or strain: Overuse or strain of the muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the foot can lead to pain in the arch.
  4. Arthritis: Arthritis can affect the joints in the foot and lead to pain in the arch.
  5. Nerve entrapment: Nerves that run through the foot can become compressed or entrapped, which can cause pain in the arch.

Treatment for foot arch pain may depend on the underlying cause. Mild cases of foot arch pain can often be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE therapy), along with the use of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help manage pain and reduce swelling.

In cases of plantar fasciitis or flat feet, orthotic devices such as arch supports or custom-made shoe inserts may be recommended to help support the arch of the foot and relieve pain.

In more severe cases or cases that are not responsive to conservative treatment, physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation may be necessary to improve foot strength and flexibility. Surgery is generally considered a last resort and is only recommended in very severe cases.

It is important to seek medical attention for foot arch pain to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.