Plantar Plate Repair

The plantar plate is a small but powerful ligament located beneath the ball of the foot, responsible for stabilizing the toe and preventing it from drifting upward or sideways. When this structure weakens or tears—often due to repetitive stress, long metatarsals, foot instability, or high-impact activity—it can cause significant pain, swelling, and the feeling of “walking on a marble.” Over time, the affected toe may begin to lift, drift, or cross over its neighbor, creating both functional limitations and aesthetic concerns.

A plantar plate injury rarely heals on its own. Without proper correction, the instability can worsen, leading to progressive deformity, difficulty bearing weight, and chronic forefoot pain.

At New Orleans Podiatry, we offer advanced plantar plate repair that restores strength, stability, and alignment to the forefoot. This procedure is performed using precise, modern techniques that may include minimally invasive approaches when appropriate. The goal is to directly repair or reinforce the torn ligament, realign the affected toe, and rebalance the joint so you can walk comfortably again.

Your evaluation may include digital imaging, ultrasound assessment, and biomechanical analysis to determine the extent of the injury and whether contributing factors—such as long metatarsals, bunions, or fat-pad loss—must also be addressed to prevent recurrence. For patients with thinning forefoot cushioning, Leneva® Fat Pad Restoration can be integrated to improve shock absorption and protect the repaired ligament during recovery.

Following surgery, patients are guided through a structured, supportive recovery process tailored to their lifestyle and activity level. Most individuals experience a significant reduction in pain, improved toe position, and restoration of confidence in every step.

Plantar plate repair not only corrects the deformity—it restores the foundation of the forefoot, allowing for stronger, more stable, and more comfortable movement long-term