Chopart (Midfoot) Injuries
Chopart Injuries
The Chopart joint is a joint in the foot that connects the midfoot to the hindfoot. It is named after the French surgeon, Jean-Nicolas Chopart, who first described it in the 18th century.
The Chopart joint is made up of two joints: the talonavicular joint and the calcaneocuboid joint. The talonavicular joint connects the talus (the bone that forms the heel) to the navicular (the bone that forms the arch of the foot). The calcaneocuboid joint connects the calcaneus (the heel bone) to the cuboid (the bone that forms the outside of the foot).
The Chopart joint allows for a variety of movements in the foot, including inversion (turning the foot inward) and eversion (turning the foot outward). It also allows for some flexion and extension of the foot. It is a relatively stable joint, but it can be injured. Injuries can occur from falls, twisting injuries, or direct blows to the foot.
Sprained Chopart joints are the most common type of injury. They occur when the ligaments that support the joint are stretched or torn. Fractures can also occur in any of the bones that make up the joint.
The signs and symptoms of a Chopart joint sprain can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some common signs and symptoms include:
- Pain in the midfoot
- Swelling and bruising around the midfoot
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot
- Tenderness to the touch around the midfoot
- Loss of range of motion in the midfoot
- Inability to wiggle the toes
Treatment for injuries to the midfoot joint depends on the severity of the injury. Mild sprains and strains may heal with rest, ice, compression, elevation and physiotherapy. More severe injuries may require surgery.
Physiotherapy for a Chopart injury usually entails:
- A period of restricted or partial weight bearing that often requires the use of a boot
- RICER
- Massage therapy
- Range of motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Return to sport/activity plan
