What is a Lisfranc fracture, and how does it occur?
A Lisfranc fracture is a severe injury to the midfoot, where the metatarsal bones are broken or displaced at the Lisfranc joint complex, including bones and ligaments that stabilize the foot arch. This type of fracture often occurs from trauma, such as twisting the foot while it’s firmly planted, falling from a height, or a direct impact in car accidents or sports.
Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Left untreated, a Lisfranc fracture can lead to chronic pain, instability, and arthritis, making timely diagnosis and treatment essential for proper recovery.
A Lisfranc fracture occurs when a strong impact or twist to the midfoot causes bones or ligaments in the Lisfranc joint to break or dislocate. Common causes include sports injuries (like twisting the foot while it’s planted), falls from heights, or car accidents where the foot is forcefully impacted.
This trauma disrupts the alignment and stability of the midfoot. Pain, swelling, and bruising typically follow, making walking difficult or bearing weight on the affected foot.
What are the common causes of a Lisfranc fracture?
Common causes of a Lisfranc fracture include traumatic injuries that involve twisting, crushing, or impact to the midfoot. It often occurs when an athlete’s foot is planted while the body rotates, as seen in football or soccer. High-impact activities, such as falls from a height or heavy object impact, can also cause this injury.
Car accidents are another frequent cause, where the force from pressing on the brake during a collision injures the midfoot. Even a simple misstep, like twisting the foot awkwardly while walking, can lead to a Lisfranc injury, mainly if excessive force is applied.
What are the benefits of treating a Lisfranc fracture early?
Early treatment of a Lisfranc fracture offers several crucial benefits that significantly improve recovery and prevent long-term complications. First, prompt treatment helps to restore the alignment of the foot’s bones and ligaments, ensuring proper healing and preserving the foot’s structural integrity. This reduces the risk of permanent deformities, such as flatfoot or misalignment, which can cause difficulty in walking or standing.
Treating the injury early also alleviates pain and swelling more effectively, offering faster relief and improving the overall quality of life. When addressed early, the chances of avoiding chronic pain or the development of arthritis in the midfoot joint are significantly reduced. Additionally, early intervention can minimize the need for extensive surgery or invasive treatments in the future.
By preventing complications like joint instability and arthritis, early treatment can help restore mobility, allowing individuals to return to their normal activities much sooner. It also decreases the risk of further injuries due to compensatory movements or altered gait patterns.
In summary, early intervention for a Lisfranc fracture optimizes recovery, ensures better long-term outcomes, and preserves foot function, allowing patients to resume daily activities with minimal limitations and pain.
What are the risks and complications of an untreated Lisfranc fracture?
An untreated Lisfranc fracture can lead to serious complications, including chronic pain, instability, and deformity in the midfoot. Without proper alignment, the bones and ligaments may heal incorrectly, causing the foot’s arch to collapse, which can lead to a condition known as flatfoot.
This misalignment also increases stress on nearby joints, often leading to arthritis, limited mobility, and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. Over time, untreated injuries can worsen, leading to persistent swelling, weakness, and a higher likelihood of re-injury. Ultimately, untreated Lisfranc fractures can significantly impair daily function and may require complex surgical correction later.
How does a Lisfranc fracture affect foot function and daily mobility?
A Lisfranc fracture significantly impacts foot function and daily mobility due to its location in the midfoot, which plays a vital role in stabilizing the arch and distributing weight during movement.
This type of fracture disrupts the alignment of bones and ligaments that support the foot’s arch, leading to pain, swelling, and instability. As a result, walking, standing, and bearing weight on the affected foot become challenging and often painful.
Without proper healing, the injury can lead to loss of arch support, causing flatfoot, which alters gait and posture. This can make even simple activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult. Over time, untreated Lisfranc fractures may lead to arthritis in the midfoot, further limiting movement and causing chronic pain.
Physical activities requiring balance, strength, or quick direction changes become particularly problematic, as the foot’s stability and flexibility are compromised, affecting overall quality of life and mobility.
Which is the Best Hospital for Lisfranc Fracture Treatment in Chennai, India?
Shri Bone & Joint Clinic is a top choice for Lisfranc fracture treatment in Chennai, India, and it is known for its skilled orthopedic specialists and patient-focused care. Patients can get Ankle Arthroscopy in Chennai at an affordable medical charge. The clinic offers effective, personalized solutions for knee and foot-related issues, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patients.
Shri Bone & Joint Clinic offers quality Femoroplasty Surgery in Chennai. For those seeking relief from knee pain or midfoot injuries, Shri Bone & Joint Clinic provides advanced treatment options, helping restore mobility and reduce discomfort. Patients are encouraged to book an appointment in advance to confirm doctor availability and receive timely, expert care tailored to their needs.
Who is the Best Surgeon for Lisfranc Injury in Chennai, India?
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy is a highly regarded orthopedic surgeon in Chennai, India, known for his expertise in treating complex foot injuries like Lisfranc fractures. A National Board-certified orthopedic surgeon, he brings over 10 years of experience in orthopedic surgery with specialized interests in knee and shoulder replacement, arthroscopy, cartilage preservation, and orthobiologics.
Dr. Shriram Krishnamoorthy also has extensive experience in geriatric orthopedics, providing compassionate care for older patients. His skills and dedication make him a top choice for patients seeking advanced and effective treatment for Lisfranc injuries and other orthopedic concerns.
How much does a Lisfranc Fracture Treatment Cost in Chennai, India?
The cost of Lisfranc fracture treatment in Chennai, India, varies depending on factors like the severity of the injury, treatment type (non-surgical or surgical), and hospital facilities. Generally, costs range from ₹50,000 to ₹2,50,000. Surgical options may be more expensive due to surgeon fees, implants, and post-surgery care.
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