Plantar Plate Tear Treatment in Los Angeles

What is a Plantar Plate Tear?

A plantar plate tear is a ligament injury located beneath the ball of the foot, most commonly affecting the second toe joint. This crucial ligament stabilizes the toe and ensures proper joint movement. When damaged, it can cause pain, swelling, toe misalignment, and difficulty walking.

Dr. Soomekh is recognized as the best podiatrist for plantar plate tears in Los Angeles, offering non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to the severity of the tear and each patient’s lifestyle.

Signs and Symptoms of a Plantar Plate Tear

The common symptoms of a plantar plate tear may include:

• Pain in the ball of the foot
• Pain when bending the toe up or down
• Deviation of the toe toward an adjacent toe
• Elevation of the affected toe
• Can lead to the formation of a hammer toe
• Pain with walking and activity
• Swelling in the ball of the foot
• Increased pain when wearing high heels

Causes of a Plantar Plate Tear

The plantar plate ligament can experience sprains, partial tears, or complete ruptures due to excessive strain or direct injury. These injuries are often associated with poor foot mechanics or repetitive trauma. Common causes include:

• High-arched foot type
• Long metatarsal bones
• Bunions
• Hammer toes
• Excessive upward flexion of the toe
• High-impact sports
• Frequent use of high heels

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Diagnosing Plantar Plate Tears

At our Beverly Hills office, Dr. Soomekh conducts a thorough evaluation using:

• Clinical examination to assess pain, swelling, and toe position
• Digital X-rays to evaluate joint alignment and bone abnormalities
• Diagnostic ultrasound for direct ligament visualization
• CT scan (3D imaging) to assess the metatarsal bone structure
• MRI scan (if necessary) for a detailed assessment of the ligament injury

Plantar Plate Tear Treatment Options

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for healing. Recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear. Cortisone injections are not recommended, as they can weaken the ligament further.

Non-Surgical Treatment for a Plantar Plate Tear (No Toe Deformity)

• Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
• Anti-inflammatory medications (as directed)
• Rest and activity modification
• Splinting or taping the toe in a downward position
• Stiff-soled shoes to minimize ligament strain
• Custom-molded orthotics for foot support and alignment
• Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding structures

Treatment for a Plantar Plate Tear With Toe Deformity

• Walking boot to reduce pressure on the ligament
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to promote healing
• Surgical repair (Hat-Trick procedure) to restore ligament integrity and correct toe position