Fractures of the foot are a very frequent injury. They are caused by falls, twisting sprains and or direct impact trauma. Some fractures are low energy injuries and some are high energy injuries, which can have serious long term consequences. These injuries can cause significant pain and morbidity due to pain with weight bearing.
X-rays are taken to identify the fracture. Most fractures are fairly obvious and do not need advance imaging. Certain fracture types, such as the lisfranc fracture and calcaneal fractures require CT scans for surgical planning.
Treatment depends on the fractured bone, the type and pattern of fracture. Most metatarsal and toe fractures do not require surgery unless there is severe displacement of the fracture or there is severe comminution of the fracture. Protected weight bearing in a CAM walker can be the treatment of choice for uncomplicated fractures.
Fractures of the 5th metatarsal bone is another common fracture. Jone’s fracture is a type of 5th metatarsal fracture that usually requires surgical fixation. Other fractures of this bone can be treated with protected weight bearing in a CAM walker. Crutches, walker or knee scooters are usually required to help with partial weight bearing or non weight bearing of the patient.
Certain high energy fractures often require immediate attention. Lisfranc fracture dislocations can cause compartment syndrome of the foot which impedes blood flow and can lead to loss of limb. Such injuries need emergent fasciotomies and stabilization of the fracture/ dislocations.
Fractures of the talus are often a result of high energy trauma associated with severe comorbidities including AVN of the talus. These fractures are usually associated with polytrauma.
Calcaneal fractures are also very common and almost always require surgical intervention. All these injuries specially the midfoot and rearfoot can be associated with long term complications including arthritis. Calcaneal fractures are notorious for causing arthritis of the subtalar joint and require surgical fixation.
Proper diagnosis and treatment can make a huge difference in the long term outcome of the patient. It is also important not to miss such injuries in the emergency department. Lisfranc fractures/dislocations is one such example of commonly missed diagnosis.
If you have suffered from any of these injuries, please come see our doctors for the best treatment option for you.
We treat acute and chronic foot and ankle fractures
Toe fractures
Metatarsal fractures
Lisfranc fracture/ dislocations
Midfoot fracture including navicular
Talus fractures
Calcaneal fractures
All types of ankle fractures
We offer same day urgent appointments for the above conditions to patient save time going to the ER and money to the Urgent Care. See know of our our physician/surgeon every visit before and after your surgery.
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