Midtarsal joint (Chopart’s joint) comprises of talonavicular joint and the calcaneocuboid joint. Injury to midtarsal joint is rare. It usually occurs in athletes such as footballers and other sports which involve jumping.
Which Are The Ligaments That Get Injured In Midtarsal Joint Sprain?
The Two Commonly Injured Ligaments Are:
- Dorsal Calcaneocuboid Ligament: This joins the calcaneus and cuboid on superior part of foot.
- Bifurcate Ligament: This is a Y shaped ligament consisting of two parts that is calcaneonavicular ligament and calcaneocuboid ligament.
What Are The Symptoms of Midtarsal Joint Sprain?
Symptoms differ depending on which ligament has been injured.
Signs & Symptoms Of Midtarsal Joint Sprain Caused By Injury To Calcaneocuboid Ligament:
- Pain is present externally to midfoot. This usually starts after ankle sprain or other injury to the ankle.
- Pain on external and superior region of joint.
- Swelling on external and superior region of joint.
- Pain upon foot inversion.
- MRI scan helps in confirming the diagnosis.
- X-ray helps in excluding a fracture.
Signs & Symptoms Of Midtarsal Joint Sprain Caused By Injury To Bifurcate Ligament Injury:
- This injury occurs after an acute ankle injury along with fracture of anterior process of calcaneus.
- Pain is present on the external region and midfoot.
- Increasing pain upon plantar flexion along with supination.
- MRI helps in confirming the diagnosis.
- X-rays help in confirming a fracture, especially anterior process of heel bone.
What is The Treatment For Midtarsal Joint Sprain?
Treatment for Midtarsal Joint Sprain Due To Calcaneocuboid Ligament Injury Includes:
- Taping helps in supporting the joint and promoting healing.
- NSAID’s help in reducing pain and calming down the inflammation.
- Orthotics may be used.
- If the pain continues, then a steroid injection is given.
Treatment for Midtarsal Joint Sprain Due To Bifurcate Ligament Injury Includes:
- Treatment is same as that of calcaneocuboid injury.
- The foot should be immobilized for a month.
- Surgery may also be required.