A Lisfranc ligament injury is a foot injury that can affect the joints and ligaments in the middle of the foot. Although less common than ankle sprains or fractures, a Lisfranc injury can cause ongoing pain, swelling and difficulty walking if it is not properly assessed and managed.

At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic, we help people across Canberra understand their foot injuries and develop an appropriate rehabilitation plan based on their individual symptoms, goals and recovery needs. If you have ongoing midfoot pain after an injury, a physiotherapy assessment can help determine the next steps.

What is a Lisfranc ligament injury?

The Lisfranc joint complex is located in the middle of the foot, where the long bones of the forefoot connect with the bones of the midfoot. Strong ligaments help stabilise this area and allow the foot to transfer force during walking, running and other movements.

A Lisfranc ligament injury occurs when these supporting structures are damaged. The injury can range from a mild ligament sprain to a more significant injury involving joint instability or fractures.

Lisfranc injuries can occur during:

• Sports activities, particularly those involving twisting or sudden changes of direction

• Falls or accidents where the foot is forced into an unusual position

• Motor vehicle accidents or higher-impact trauma

• A simple-looking twist injury that places excessive stress through the midfoot

Because symptoms can sometimes appear similar to a regular foot sprain, a Lisfranc injury may be overlooked initially.

What are the common symptoms of a Lisfranc injury?

Many people search for answers after experiencing persistent foot pain following an injury. Common symptoms of a Lisfranc ligament injury may include:

• Pain in the middle of the foot, especially when standing or walking

• Swelling around the top or inside of the foot

• Bruising, sometimes including bruising on the underside of the foot

• Difficulty putting weight through the affected foot

• Pain during activities such as walking, running or pushing off the toes

• Reduced confidence when returning to sport or exercise

If you have ongoing midfoot pain after an injury, it is important to have it assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.

How is a Lisfranc ligament injury diagnosed?

A Lisfranc injury is usually diagnosed through a combination of your injury history, a physical assessment and medical imaging where appropriate.

A physiotherapist may assess:

• Foot and ankle movement

• Strength and stability

• Walking pattern and functional limitations

• Pain triggers and activities that aggravate symptoms

In some cases, further investigation such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans may be recommended by a medical practitioner to help assess the extent of the injury.

Early assessment can help guide appropriate management and reduce the risk of returning to activities too quickly.

Can physiotherapy help with a Lisfranc ligament injury?

Physiotherapy can play an important role in the rehabilitation of many Lisfranc injuries, particularly during the recovery phase after medical assessment and when progressing back to normal activities.

A physiotherapy program may focus on:

Reducing pain and improving movement

Initially, treatment may involve strategies to help manage symptoms and restore comfortable movement through the foot and ankle. This may include advice about activity modification, mobility exercises and gradual loading.

Restoring strength and stability

The muscles of the foot, ankle and lower limb help support normal movement. Rehabilitation may include progressive strengthening exercises designed around your current ability and recovery stage.

Improving walking and function

A physiotherapist can help assess how your foot is coping with everyday activities and guide your progression from basic movements through to higher-demand tasks.

Returning to sport and exercise safely

For active individuals, rehabilitation may include a gradual return-to-running or return-to-sport plan. The timing of this process varies depending on factors such as injury severity, treatment approach and individual progress.

How long does a Lisfranc ligament injury take to heal?

Recovery time for a Lisfranc injury varies significantly between individuals. Factors that may influence recovery include:

• The severity of the ligament injury

• Whether fractures or joint changes are present

• The treatment approach recommended

• Overall health and activity requirements

• How the foot responds during rehabilitation

Some people recover with conservative management, while more significant injuries may require surgical treatment followed by rehabilitation. Your healthcare team can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Frequently asked questions about Lisfranc injuries

Can you walk with a Lisfranc ligament injury?

Some people can walk with a Lisfranc injury, particularly if the injury is less severe. However, being able to walk does not always mean the injury is minor. Persistent midfoot pain or swelling after an injury should be assessed.

Is a Lisfranc injury just a sprained foot?

No. A Lisfranc injury involves the joints and ligaments in the middle of the foot and can be more complex than a typical foot sprain. Appropriate assessment is important to understand the extent of the injury.

When should I see a physiotherapist for foot pain?

You may benefit from physiotherapy assessment if you have ongoing pain, reduced mobility, difficulty returning to activities or concerns about your recovery after a foot injury.

Physiotherapy for Lisfranc ligament injuries in Canberra

Recovering from a Lisfranc ligament injury requires a structured approach that considers your symptoms, lifestyle and rehabilitation goals. At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic, our experienced physiotherapists provide personalised assessments and evidence-informed rehabilitation programs for people experiencing foot and ankle conditions.

If you are experiencing ongoing midfoot pain or are looking for guidance following a Lisfranc injury in Canberra, contact Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic to arrange an appointment and discuss how physiotherapy may assist with your recovery.

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