Think you have Plantar Plate Tear/Rupture?

What is a Plantar Plate Tear/Rupture?

The plantar plate is a thick ligament that runs underneath the first joint of each foot. It acts like a support cable to protect the toe joints from pressure and injury, also to prevent the joint from bending upward beyond the normal range of motion. Mild to severe pain and swelling is experienced under the ball of the foot, extending toward the toes (most commonly the 2nd or 3rd). One or more of your toes may be splayed or clawed. A numb sensation, “burning pain” or feeling like you're walking on your bones may be experienced.

Plantar plate is usually an overuse injury such as from running; obesity, adding too much body weight to the ligament; or wearing high heeled shoes often locks the forefoot into a flexed position, requiring the plantar plate to carry all of your body weight.

Ice the injured area
Short term anti inflammatory medications (e.g. ibuprofen) to reduce pain and inflammation.
See a podiatrist

Podiatrists may strap the toe for you, advise on footwear or maybe prescribe orthotics.
Podiatrists may advise a way to keep weight completely off the ball of your foot.
Foot and ankle surgeon for surgical treatment when non-surgical measures fail to work.

This condition can take quite a while to become pain free with conservative treatments, patients are normally pain free within 3-4 months. Initial symptoms improve allowing most people to return to activity within 1 month.