The plantar plate is a fibrous like framework which is found on the under side of the metatarsophalangeals (toe) joints of the foot. Biologically they are similar to the meniscus in the knee which means they are created to withstand lots of compressive forces and support the joint surfaces. It's a a thickening of the bottom part of the capsule which surrounds that joint to help keep the joint fluid within the joint. Most of the fibers within it are aligned longitudinally in the similar direction as the foot points, so it might resist lots of load forces. The collateral ligaments on both edges of the joint additionally connect to the plantar plate, to help provide the joint increased stability. The function of the plantar plate is to support the weight of the body and limits dorsiflexion of the metatarsophalangeal joint.
Because this plantar plate is built to resist those great forces, occasionally the forces may be so great or the structure is weakened for several different causes, it can become painful or perhaps have a little split in it. This is not typically something which takes place quickly and develops slowly over time. The pain is typically on weightbearing underneath the joint at the bottom of the toe. Palpation of this area is mostly rather painful. Often the diagnosis may be confirmed by having an ultrasound examination. In the past the signs and symptoms may have just been disregarded as a metatarsalgia which isn't actually a diagnosis and simply implies pain across the metatarsals. Today a lot more is known about this plantar plate and just how it makes symptoms, the procedure can be far better aimed to make it better. The crucial element to fixing this problem is to reduce stress on the plantar plate and to do this the toe is required to be held in a plantarflexed location with taping. This usually takes care of most instances.