Midtarsal Joint Sprains are usually the result of the stress of jumping and landing causing pain and swelling. Midtarsal Joint Sprains are a graded condition ranging from mild to severe.
Midtarsal Joint Sprain Treatment
At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our specialised treatment aims to:
What is a Midtarsal Joint Sprain?
A midtarsal joint sprain is the overstretching or tearing to the connective ligaments of the midtarsal or Chopart joint. The ligaments involve the calcaneocuboid ligament, linking the calcaneus and cuboid bones; and the bifurcate ligament, which is Y-shaped and connects the calcaneus and navicular with one head and the other to the cuboid. These ligaments are responsible for stabilising the foot joints between the talus, calcaneus, navicular and cuboid bones.
The grades of the joint sprain are as follows:
- Grade I:
Mild sprain, only minor stretching or tearing to the ligament tissue occurs. - Grade II:
Moderate sprain, partial tear to ligament tissue but still intact. There is a limited function of the joint. - Grade III:
Severe sprain, ligament is completely torn causing joint instability.
What are the causes?
A midtarsal joint sprain usually results from the stress of jumping and landing, thus, are most commonly seen in people who play sports.
- Overloading the ligament most commonly with inversion (turning the foot in), however they can also happen with eversion (turning the foot out)
- Sudden, rapid loading of the ligament usually after a long period of rest
- External impact
What are the symptoms of a Midtarsal Joint Sprain?
The exact location of pain will depend on the ligaments that are damaged:
- Pain on the outside middle of your foot
- Swelling on top or outside edge of your foot
- Aching, which gradually builds in intensity over time. Usually due to repetitive strain
- Certain foot movements will be painful
- Stiffness in the morning
Treatment for Midtarsal Joint Sprain
- Immobilisations of the foot to allow healing of the ligaments
- Balance training to improve joint stability, reduce risk of re-injury.
- Soft tissue massage
- Taping
- Activity modification education
- Mobilisation after healing of ligaments to regain range of movement
- Tailored exercise program
- TECAR Therapy
What can I do at home?
- Resting the foot and limiting physical activity
- Ice to control any swelling
- Compression
- Elevation
- Wearing loose shoes
How to book an appointment?
If you think that you may be suffering from a Midtarsal Joint Sprain, or you’re looking for a ‘physiotherapist near me’, our team at Vitalis Physiotherapy can assess and diagnose the condition. They will then tailor your treatment plan to aid in your pain relief and recovery.
All you need to do is just give us a call on 0410 559 856 and request an initial appointment. Please let our friendly reception staff know the background and severity of your condition.
You can visit our FAQs for more information about appointments at Vitalis Physiotherapy.
Need Help?
Are you suffering from a painful Midtarsal Joint Sprain? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment.
Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
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