The plantar plate is a ligament underneath the joints at the base of the toes in the foot. A plantar plate tear is when there is a little tear in this ligament. Previously this condition could have been termed metatarsalgia, but that is a rather generic word for virtually every pain within the foot linked to the metatarsals. As more become understood in relation to the anatomy of the area and the role of the structure in various painful problems the terms plantar plate dysfunction and plantar plate tear become better understood to explain this disorder. The problem ordinarily starts off with a discomfort beneath the metatarsal head in the foot that comes on slowly. Later on it usually is really painful to palpation. Often, the toe might become lifted up since the tear will mean that the ligament has trouble holding the toe plantarflexed that is one of the purposes of this ligament. An ultrasound evaluation are often used to verify the diagnosis.
The reason for this condition is just not obvious however it is related to too much use and overstretching of the ligament. Some foot types also seem to have this more frequently. The typical initial solution for a plantar plate tear is normally strapping to keep the toe lower to minimize the strain on the ligament which has the tear. A metatarsal pad is frequently utilized as well or instead of the strapping to help reduce stress on that plantar plate. Occasionally cushioning to offload the painful location may give a lot of relief. In addition, a rigid soled footwear are often used to even more prevent the toe from bending is usually included with the above. Normally, this treatment ought to be utilized for at least a few months to find out if it helps. Normally, this is effective in nearly all cases. Nevertheless, if it doesn't help, then surgical solutions ought to be considered to fix the rupture.