A: We recommend a shoe with a stiff sole for plantar plate injuries. Usually, about 5 -7 days after surgery you will see your surgeon in clinic to clean and re-dress the surgery site. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Plantar plate tears are diagnosed with a physical exam, medical history and X-rays. How to tape a plantar plate tear In many cases of plantar plate tear, the collateral ligaments on the sides of the toes have torn as an adjunct to the plantar plate and proper repair of these ligaments is essential. Make an appointment with a foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon if you suspect you have a plantar plate injury. If so, custom orthotics can help prevent many issues that they may encounter, including plantar plate tears. Later, you may see your second toe start to move towards the big toe and even overlap, causing a V-shaped space between the second and third toes. There is a way to test the integrity of the ligament, called the Lachmans test or the drawer test, but it is no longer considered reliable. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Washington we strongly believe that plantar plate tears can be managed with conservative treatment options and surgery for a plantar plate tear should always be the last resort. Was very happy with the care. Plantar Plate Tear | How to Treat a Plantar Plate Tear This is not medical advice. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Some shoe trends even tout extra flexibility and a minimalist design. Most patients will be in a postoperative or protective shoe for an extended period of time depending on the severity of the injury and the surgery required. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. A custom insole is helpful to offload the Plantar Plate, and when combined with Taping and stiff shoes, it is a highly effective treatment. The increased flexibility allows your toes to pull and tear on the plantar plate, causing injury rather than strengthening your foot.