Lisfranc Fracture Treatment and Rehab
- Derek Lund
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
A Lisfranc fracture is a serious injury to the midfoot, often requiring specialized care to restore function and mobility. At our chiropractic office in Marathon, WI, serving the Wausau area, we provide comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation for Lisfranc injuries, helping patients return to their active lifestyles. Whether you're in Marathon, Wausau, or nearby communities, our team is here to guide you through diagnosis, surgery (we outsource this, promise), and recovery with personalized care.

Understanding a Lisfranc Fracture
The Lisfranc joint, located in the midfoot, connects the forefoot to the hindfoot and is critical for stability and movement. A Lisfranc fracture involves a break or dislocation in this joint, often caused by high-impact activities, sports injuries, or accidents. Those active in running, hiking, or other sports may be at risk due to the region's active outdoor lifestyle.
Symptoms include:
Severe midfoot pain
Swelling and bruising
Difficulty bearing weight
Inability to push off during walking or running
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent long-term complications like arthritis or chronic pain. If you suspect a Lisfranc injury, visit our Marathon, WI, chiropractic office for an evaluation which and referral if confirmed.
Initial Diagnosis of a Lisfranc Fracture
Diagnosing a Lisfranc fracture begins with a thorough physical exam. Our team in Marathon, WI, assess your foot for tenderness, swelling, and/or deformity. We may also perform stress tests to evaluate joint stability. Imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, confirms the diagnosis by revealing fractures or ligament damage.
For residents of central Wisconsin a timely diagnosis is key. Delaying treatment can worsen the injury, so we prioritize quick, accurate assessments to develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs. Keep in mind this is typically a surgical case and we will do everything we can to have you seen by the best foot orthopedists as soon as possible!
Surgical Treatment for Lisfranc Fractures
In many cases, a Lisfranc fracture requires surgical intervention, especially if bones are displaced or ligaments are severely torn. Surgery typically involves:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Surgeons realign the bones and secure them with screws, plates, or pins.
Fusion: In severe cases, fusing the damaged joints may be necessary to restore stability.
Our Marathon, WI, office collaborates with local orthopedic specialists in the Wausau area to ensure you receive top-tier surgical care. Post-surgery, our chiropractic team plays a vital role in your rehabilitation, helping you regain strength and mobility at your pace and tolerance.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation for Lisfranc Fractures
Rehabilitation after a Lisfranc fracture is a multi-phase process, and our chiropractic office in Marathon, WI, is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect (keep in mind, timelines vary from case to case but this is a good guide):
Phase 1: Immobilization and Protection (Weeks 1–6)
Goal: Protect the surgical site and promote healing.
Treatment: Your foot will likely be in a cast or boot, with non-weight-bearing instructions. Our team/your surgical team provides guidance on using crutches or a knee scooter to avoid stress on the injury.
Chiropractic Support: We offer gentle manual therapies to maintain circulation and reduce stiffness in surrounding joints, ensuring optimal recovery for Wausau-area patients.
Phase 2: Early Mobilization (Weeks 6–12)
Goal: Restore range of motion and begin weight-bearing.
Treatment: Therapeutic exercises, guided by our Marathon, WI, chiropractors, focus on gentle stretching and strengthening. We may use modalities like laser therapy to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing.
Patient Focus: Gradually transition to partial weight-bearing as advised by your surgeon, with customized rehab plans for Marathon and Wausau residents.
Phase 3: Functional Recovery (Months 3–6)
Goal: Rebuild strength, balance, and coordination.
Treatment: Our chiropractic care includes targeted exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle, improve proprioception (your body's awareness of where its at in space, such as when you close your eyes and can touch your finger to your nose still), and restore normal gait. We may incorporate adjustments to address compensatory mobility issues in the spine or pelvis caused by altered movement patterns.
Patient Goals: Return to daily activities, such as walking or light exercise, with a focus on preventing re-injury for active individuals in the Wausau area.
Phase 4: Return to Activity (6+ Months)
Goal: Resume sports, work, or recreational activities.
Treatment: We design advanced rehab programs tailored to your lifestyle, whether you're a marathon runner, hiker, or weekend warrior in Marathon, WI. These include sport-specific drills, flexibility exercises, and ongoing chiropractic adjustments to maintain mobility and prevent future injuries.
Patient Goals: Achieve full function, with minimal pain or risk of complications like arthritis, allowing you to enjoy Wausau’s active community.
Long-Term Patient Goals
The ultimate goal of Lisfranc fracture treatment is to restore your quality of life. For patients in Marathon, WI, and the Wausau area, this means:
Pain-free movement
Full return to work, sports, or hobbies
Prevention of long-term complications like arthritis or instability
Improved overall mobility and strength
Our chiropractic office emphasizes a holistic approach, combining manual therapies, rehabilitation exercises, and patient education to ensure lasting recovery. We work closely with you to set realistic milestones, whether you’re aiming to walk pain-free or return to competitive sports.
Why Choose Our Chiropractic Office in Marathon, WI?
At our Marathon, WI, chiropractic office, we’re committed to helping Wausau-area patients recover from Lisfranc fractures with personalized, evidence-based care. Our team understands the unique needs of our community, from outdoor enthusiasts to busy professionals. We offer:
Expert diagnosis and rehabilitation plans
Collaboration with local Wausau specialists
Convenient location in Marathon, WI, off highway 29 serving the greater Wausau area
A focus on long-term recovery and injury prevention
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’ve suffered a Lisfranc fracture or suspect a midfoot injury, don’t wait to seek care. Our chiropractic office in Marathon, WI, is here to support your recovery journey, from diagnosis to full rehabilitation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward pain-free movement in the Wausau area.
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