A midfoot sprain, also referred to as a Lisfranc injury, occurs when a slight sprain or tear of the Lisfranc ligament in your foot. In addition, most midfoot sprains are actually midfoot fractures that have been misdiagnosed. While the rehabilitation for the two do not vary greatly, midfoot fractures often require surgery to stabilize the bones in your ankle.
Immobilization
The first step in rehabilitating a midfoot sprain is immobilization. Your doctor will either place your ankle in a non-weight bearing cast. As a result, you will be on crutches for six to eight weeks, depending on x-rays and the recovery time established by your doctor. If surgery is required, the immobilization cast may be on for a shorter period because of the screws that have been inserted into your foot. Because the screws have already stabilized the bones in your foot, the recovery time is largely based around recovery from the surgery itself.
Range of Motion Exercises
After six weeks in a cast, the range of motion in your foot and ankle as well as the muscle definition in the region will have significantly reduced. Once you are no longer in a cast, it is important to return your foot to its full range of motion before performing any weight bearing exercises. Range of motion exercises can be performed individually or with the help of a physical therapist. Range of motion exercises range from ankle circles to foot pumps.
Weight Bearing Exercises
Weight bearing exercises should be performed after your full range of motion has returned. Start by performing rehabilitation exercises on a stationary bike. Once you have regained some muscle in your ankle and foot, move off the bike in an attempt to start walking. Try walking in a straight line for 10 yards, making sure to take straight and even steps as you walk. After walking for short periods of time, you can extend your walks, even turning them into short jogs.
Rigid Arch Support
A rigid arch support is an orthotic that will be placed in your shoe after your cast has been removed. While rigid arch support is not always required with respect to rehabilitation, it can help prevent you from stepping down on your foot in a eccentric angle or manner. In addition, rigid arch support orthotics will help reduce your chances of walking with a limp after suffering a midfoot sprain. To further balance your feet, place them in both of your shoes.
