Ben Roethlisberger, commonly known as Big Ben is a quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who suffered a Lisfranc injury during a game. He was carted off because of his serious foot injury that will compromise his mobility and scramble ability.

Lisfranc injury is a result of broken bones in the mid-foot that varies from simple to complex involving joints and bones in the mid-foot. Injuries to Lisfranc joints usually occur in victims of an automobile accident, military personnel, runners, football players, horseback riders, and participants of other contact sport. Consult a podiatrist for any signs of serious foot pain. Dr. Jonathan Kletz is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people with foot injuries.

There are three types of Lisfranc injury and these are:

• Dislocations - the bones of Lisfranc joint are forced from their normal position
• Fractures - a break in a bone in the Lisfranc joint
• Sprains - the ligaments are stretched that causes instability of the joint

For you to determine whether you have a Lisfranc injury, you need to understand and know what its signs and symptoms are. These signs and symptoms include the following:

• Swelling of the foot
• Abnormal widening of the foot
• Pain in the mid-foot when standing or when pressure is applied
• Bruising or blistering on the arch and
• Inability to bear weight

The treatment of Lisfranc injury is according to its severity.

Non-surgical treatment:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation, commonly called RICE.
• Immobilization - the foot is placed in the cast or walking boot.
• Physical therapy - final phase of recovery wherein you are slowly introduced to normal activities.

Surgical treatment:

• Internal fixation - the bones are held into place with plates, screws, or other hardware that will be removed between 3 to 5 months.
• Fusion - the bones will be welded into place, the fusing material will be left in the foot permanently.

How can Lisfranc Injury be avoided?

To prevent Lisfranc injury, individuals should be careful and aware while performing any physical activities that could lead to accidents.

• Individuals who participate in high-risk sports should wear proper padding and appropriate shoes. 
• Consume foods rich in calcium to help build bone strength.
• Perform weight bearing exercises to strengthen the bones.

Texas Foot Works located in Dallas, Athens and Gun Barrell City, TX, we specialize in helping people with foot injuries.  To schedule an appointment, call 214-340-8885.