Lisfranc (midfoot) Fractures

Tarsometatarsal joint refers to the region found in the middle of the foot. It is also called as Lisfranc joints. It is a junction between the tarsal bones (group of seven articulating bones in the foot) and metatarsal bones (a group of five long bones in the foot). A deformity in the tarsometatarsal region can be due to arthritis and traumatic motor accidents.

Tarsometatarsal arthritis is characterized by pain, functional impairment and midfoot instability. The appearance of bruises and swelling on the dorsal side of the midfoot are the commonly observed symptoms. The doctor will first examine the physical condition of the foot by inspection and palpation (feeling with hands). You may be advised to get an X-ray taken. You might also be sent to get a CT or MRI scan done to provide more information about your condition.

The early stages of injury can be treated by analgesics, steroid injections and by wearing special footwear or casts. Tarsometatarsal joint fusion is recommended if all the non-surgical procedures fail to show efficacy in treating the injury.