Plantar plate injury

The plantar plate is a thickened part of the toe joints which has the tendon attached as its base. When the pressures underneath this structure is too great the plantar plate and associated tendon can become inflamed and at worst “tear”, so causing the toe to deviate. The problem is diagnosed by means of ultrasound and clinical examination and the cause can be determined by means of kinetic / pressure analysis. Orthoses are often a crucial part of the treatment together with footwear and padding techniques. Sometimes, especially when claw toes or bunions are present, surgery is required.