About Lisfranc Foot Injury
A Lisfranc injury is a midfoot ligament or fracture injury that can be missed early but has a major impact on walking and running. Physical therapy supports healing and rebuilds foot, calf, and balance strength for safe return to activity.
Expected Recovery Window
Non-surgical sprain: 8–12 weeks. Post-surgical (ORIF/fusion): 4–6 months. Return to running or sport: 6–9+ months.
Related Symptoms with Lisfranc Foot Injury
Common Symptoms
Midfoot pain and swelling; bruising on the bottom of the foot (plantar bruising); pain with walking or push-off; difficulty bearing weight; pain with twisting the forefoot; widening of the midfoot in more severe cases.
Common Causes
Twisting fall with the foot planted; direct trauma to the midfoot; missed step off a curb; contact sport tackle; high-force push-off injury. Can be sprain, fracture, or fracture-dislocation of the tarsometatarsal joints.
How We Treat Lisfranc Foot Injury
We screen for red flags that require imaging or surgical consult, then restore foot and ankle mobility while protecting the midfoot as it heals. Rehab rebuilds calf and intrinsic foot strength, balance, and progressive impact tolerance with return-to-run progressions.
