Podiatry
Lisfranc Injury
Trauma to the midfoot joint's bones and ligaments, usually from a direct impact or twisting injury, that needs prompt care.
Lisfranc injury is an umbrella term for trauma affecting the midfoot joint, which comprises the metatarsals, tarsal bones, and connecting ligaments. The term is named after Jacques Lisfranc de St. Martin, a 1700s surgeon who famously treated soldiers whose feet were trapped in stirrups during falls from horses. As he mapped the midfoot joint line for surgery, its anatomy and associated injuries have carried his name ever since.
The midfoot is densely packed with strong bones and ligaments, so a Lisfranc injury is considered rare in the general population. When it does occur, it's usually from direct impact — such as a car accident, a heavy object dropping on the foot, or the foot twisting during sport. Because of its rarity, it's frequently underdiagnosed by clinicians who may be less familiar with its presentation. Prompt care is key to avoiding long-term disability, as complications can include permanent foot deformity and ongoing pain from post-traumatic arthritis. Imaging is highly recommended to check for fractures, ligament tears, or bone misalignment in the area.
Risk factors
- Contact and pivoting sports
- Sports that require stirrups or strapping the foot, such as snowboarding and horseback riding
- Work environments that require lifting heavy equipment
- Peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation in the feet)
- A previous injury to the midfoot
- Flexible, unsupportive footwear
Common symptoms
- A distinct 'pop' sensation in the midfoot
- Swelling, bruising, and pain on top of the middle of the foot
- Difficulty walking and standing on the foot
Assessment & treatment
Treatment
Management depends on imaging results and which structures are affected. For mild Lisfranc sprains, temporary immobilisation, offloading the foot, and light rehabilitation is generally sufficient. If imaging reveals torn ligaments or broken bones, you may be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon to realign and repair the joint. Orthotics are strongly recommended to support the midfoot structure and help prevent deformity.
Your clinician will assess your condition and form an appropriate plan, which may include:
Treatment may include:
- Anti-inflammatories
- Crutches
- Splinting or temporary immobilisation
- Referral for imaging or to an orthopaedic surgeon
- Shockwave therapy
- Orthotics to prevent foot deformity
- Changes to footwear
- A progressive loading plan
- Physiotherapy
How Simba Health treats Lisfranc Injury
Our podiatry clinicians assess the cause of your symptoms and build a personalised, evidence-based plan to treat Lisfranc Injury. With no GP referral required and initial appointments from $109, you can start care quickly at a clinic near you.
Podiatry near you
Frequently asked questions
No. You can book podiatry directly at Simba Health with no GP referral, so you can start treatment for Lisfranc Injury without delay. Initial appointments start from $109. A referral may still help if you're claiming under a care plan.
Lisfranc Injury is treated under our podiatry service, with initial consultations from $109 and lower follow-up fees. We keep our pricing transparent so you know what to expect before your appointment.
Our podiatry clinicians assess the underlying cause of your symptoms, then build a personalised, evidence-based treatment plan for Lisfranc Injury. Many people start to notice improvement once the right plan is underway.
Not sure this is right for you?
Call us and we'll help you find the right service and clinician for your needs.
(02) 9188 0544