Originally published on April 13, 2017.
I haven’t been able to run in eight months.
Eight. Long. Frustrating. Months.
Another thing I haven’t done during this time is a good job blogging about my partial plantar plate tear injury. I’ve given Coping with Injury tips, and given a few updates, and did some videos on YouTube, but I’ve yet to truly dig deep into the topic. Maybe because it’s been easier to mentally cope by writing about other topics. Plus there’s my fear of being a running blogger/vlogger who can’t run.
That, my friends, would suck.
The Joyful Miles blog, YouTube channel, podcast, and other sites provide general information about fitness, health, and related subjects based on our own experiences. We are not doctors, registered dietitians, or fitness experts. Our content is not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. When it comes to your health and fitness, do your research and consult your doctor.
But after doing many google searches, I’ve only found a few blog posts about this bugger of a rare injury. I’m doing a disservice to others who are trying to find information about plantar plate tears, (PPT,) by not writing about my experience.
So here goes. In this post, I’m going to give the full scoop and then follow up with tips on how you can prevent injuries and more updates.
What is a Partial Plantar Plate Tear?
The plantar plate is a strong ligament on the bottom of the foot that attaches your toes from your metatarsal joint to the long bones at the base of your toes, keeping your toes in place instead of splaying. Aka, a very important ligament if you don’t want hammertoes.
PP tears are more common in middle-aged women, (10:1,) especially those who over-pronate or roll their foot inward. (Hello, that’s me.) There are three different stages: Stage One being a sprain, Stage Two, (again, that’s me,) a partial tear that can be treated with conservative measures, and Stage Three, where the ligament has torn completely from the joint and surgery is the only option.
The symptoms can include:
- Pain in the ball of your foot.
- The feeling of walking on the bones of your foot or like there’s a pebble in your shoe.
- Your toe starts to shift upward and cross toward your big toe.
- Swelling and redness on the foot above the second toe.
How did it happen?
I’ve been sidelined with a partial PPT in my second metatarsal joint since running the Disneyland Half in September. The cause is unknown since I didn’t have any distinct moment of trauma but my unwise decision to switch to a less stabilizing shoe, (Asics Kayano to Asic GT-2000,) too close to the half could have been a major factor.
NEVER switch shoe styles before a race!
Once back home, the balls of both my feet were sore, but it felt more from walking long hours in the parks rather than from an injury. Still, I took a week off from running before getting on the treadmill for an easy five miles. There was minimal pain at first, but it subsided after a couple of miles. Same thing a week later when I tried another easy run on the treadmill. An ache at first that soon dissipated. This time, however, there was substantial more pain in my left foot afterward, telling me something was wrong.
With the Wine and Dine Half Marathon on my horizon, I knew I needed to see a doctor. Like, fast. I tried making an appointment with a podiatrist I’ve seen before, but his schedule was booked for an entire month. So I tried several others, both podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons, and booked with the first who could see me that week.
I sat nervously in the waiting room on September 20th with that question all of us runners dread swirling in my head. Will I run again?
The doctor seemed sympathetic to my situation. My X-rays showed no broken bones or fractures, although some hairline stress fractures won’t show up on an X-ray. So he diagnosed either a stress fracture or sprain and recommended I return after six weeks of no running if the pain is still there.
“Will I run again?”
“Most likely.”
But the Chicago Marathon was now definitely out, which was upsetting since I was to run it with my friend and Princess Half pal, Kelly. Instead, my husband took us to our beach house that weekend where I drank too much beer, ate an entire pizza by myself, and wrote a very depressing blog post.
TIP: never blog when you are depressed, stuffed, and slightly buzzed.
Seeing as how there was no improvement with my injury after six weeks, I went back to the doctor on October 13th for another round of X-rays.
This time, he said it was possible I had a Freiburg Infraction due to my second metatarsal joint appearing flattened. A Freiburg what???
Freiberg disease, also known as a Freiberg infraction, is a form of avascular necrosis in the metatarsal. It generally develops in the second metatarsal, but can occur in any metatarsal. (Thank you, Wikipedia.)
An MRI would be the only way for a true diagnosis, however. My husband and I are self-employed with a very high insurance deductible, so we’d have to pay for this out of pocket. After relating this to him, he said I could skip it, for now, seeing as how conservative treatments for both a stress fracture and Freiburg Infraction are the same: rest. So I decided to wait for now.
HUGE mistake. Always, ALWAYS do whatever it takes to get an accurate diagnosis! (Especially after I later discovered it would only cost me $199.00 after our insurance company absorbed most of the cost.)
The doctor then recommended wearing a stiff-soled insert and metatarsal pad. He also said a cortisone shot could ease the pain, but I refused. THANK GOD. While this can be helpful with other foot conditions, it can cause a ligament rupture for those with a PPT, sending you straight to the operating table. So my biggest tip today is to NEVER get a cortisone injection unless your diagnosis is firm. Just don’t!
I then asked about wearing a walking boot. Would it help? He said it couldn’t hurt and had me fitted for one that I wore for six weeks. As for walking the Wine and Dine Half Marathon, I had clearance if I took it easy.
“But will I run again?”
“It’s possible.”
After my doctor appointment, I immediately jumped online and researched Freiburg Infractions in hopes it wouldn’t sideline my running career for good.
The prognosis? Not great.
Most runners with this injury never fully returned to their original form and many required surgery.
I did not take this well.
I was certain this was my injury, seeing as how the symptoms are very similar to a PPT. And in retrospect, maybe that’s why I foolishly decided to walk the Wine and Dine Half Marathon. Because if my runDisney career was soon going to come to an end, I was going to go out big.
One thing I did purchase that has been helpful is a carbon graphite fiber insole from My Foot Shop as well as some gel metatarsal pads, both of which I still use.
Fast forward a couple of weeks. After still no improvement, I decided to get the MRI, something I should have done right from the get-go. There was an appointment available the day before Thanksgiving at 6:00 am so I grabbed it. At 3:00 pm that same day, I got a call from my doctor’s assistant.
The diagnosis?
Indications of an injury that resulted in a tear of the attachment of the second plantar plate at the base of my second toe, as well as signs of bone marrow edema.
Aka, a partial plantar plate tear and inflammation and absolutely no Freiburg Infraction. I immediately made another appointment with my doctor for that Friday and then spent the rest of my day googling PPTs and gathering as much information as possible from those who had or have the same injury.
The results were all over the place.
Some runners healed in months. Some years.
Some had surgery. Some of the results were good. Some of them led to even more pain.
In general, a PPT is one bugger of a slow-healing injury.
Still, the prognosis is much better than a Freiburg Infraction so I was grateful, despite having to pull out of the WDW Marathon Weekend. And for the moment, I managed to pull myself out of the Deep Dark as I explained in this blog post.
Let’s fast forward.
During my previous appointment, my doctor said custom orthotics would be a good next step and said he’d give me a referral before leaving. We both forgot about it, however, so I left a message with his office in hopes of it being forwarded to a certified orthotist, (a healthcare professional who makes and fits braces, splints, custom orthotics, etc.) No reply. A week later, I left another message. His assistant returned it a few days later, saying that she was confused about my initial request. She then said I could pick up the referral, but after speaking with my doctor, she relayed his belief that if I wasn’t feeling better by now, surgery was my only option.
Seriously? Just like that? Even though I had no signs of toe shifting and very little pain?
Yeah. No. This went up me sideways.
I was starting to believe this doctor was only truly interested in cases that required surgery, so I sought out a second opinion. On January 20th, I saw my second doctor who thoroughly examined my foot and reviewed my MRI. Due to my ligament was still being intact with no inflammation, he did not think surgery was necessary at all.
“But will I run again?”
“Oh yeah, most likely.”
Thank God.
He also recommended things my first doctor never did, such as taping my second toe down to relieve the pressure on the torn ligament as well as wearing a rocker-sole shoe such as the Hoka One One. As for custom orthotics, he recommended waiting to see how the taping went, but he could give me a prescription then if I wanted one.
I should have said yes, please, give me the prescription. Honestly, I don’t know why I didn’t. I’m still pissed at myself for this one.
And I was pissed at my first doctor for never suggesting taping or rocker-soled shoes, seeing as how it’s usually always the first step in conservative treatments for a PPT. And I was pissed at myself for not discovering this for myself and being assertive during my past doctor appointments.
Pissed, pissed, pissed.
But I was also extremely thankful for getting clearance to walk each race during the Princess Half Marathon. And for the first time since October, I started to believe that yes, I WILL RUN AGAIN, even though it might take several more months.
Then I saw my doctor again on March 16th for another round of X-rays.
Long story short, considering there has been no improvement since our last visit, he said there’s nothing more he can do.
Sigh.
He did recommend I try custom orthotics now and said he’d forward a prescription to an office in Towson, Maryland, about a 45-minute drive for me. (According to his assistant, later on, the office would contact me to make an appointment.) Before leaving, however, the doctor looked at my X-ray again and expressed concern about my second toe possibly drifting, (aka, I’m screwed,) but then again … it could just be naturally crooked. The only way to know for sure would be to take X-rays of my right foot.
Now. Had I been smart, I would have said, “Okay, let’s take the X-rays now,” rather than have this fear haunting me for the next few weeks.
Or better yet. I could have said, “Hey, I have my first X-rays on my phone. Would it help to compare it to that one?”
And how about, “There’s a great orthotist right here in town who can do my custom inserts. Can I just go there rather than drive for 45 minutes?”
But no. I wasn’t thinking straight. His nothing more we can do comment put me in a frenzy, causing me to forget about other options I’ve read about online. What about shock wave therapy? Or PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy? Or an ultrasound? Dry pin therapy?
Tip: ALWAYS go to your doctor’s armed with a list and a plan in case your mind goes blank.
Instead, I sat in the waiting room afterward, beating myself up mentally for being so unprepared and unassertive. I also made a quick collage on my phone comparing the two X-rays that the receptionist emailed him later.
I never heard back, not that I really expected to.
And I never heard from the orthotist office that he recommended. They never called to make an appointment so, after one week, I called his office and left a message. No reply. Three days later, I called and spoke with the receptionist instead, who forwarded me to my doctor’s assistant to leave another voice mail.
Meanwhile, I called the certified orthotist in town who said he could see me that very day if I was able to get my prescription.
Thankfully, my doctor’s assistant called me back an hour later and was more than willing to have it waiting for me at the front desk, no fight was necessary. (When I asked her about PRP and other therapies, she said in her years with this doctor, he has only prescribed such treatments one time and would most likely not recommend them.)
Now. David, my orthotist?
I loved him.
He was very knowledgeable about my injury and proved that getting custom orthotics should have been one of my first steps, after diagnosing me as both an over-pronator and there’s also something funky going on with my heels … I didn’t think to write down the word he used.
And dang it! I didn’t take a picture of my foot mold!
David said I will most likely need custom orthotics for running for the rest of my life as well as continuing to use the carbon-graphite fiber insole. And there’s a chance that I’ll always have pain when I run.
Plus a chance I’ll need surgery after all.
There are just no guarantees with this persnickety injury. If I do? There’s only one surgeon who will do it, a doctor in the same office as David. (And one I tried to make an appointment with but he only sees patients who are ready for surgery, he’s that good.) David recommended I trr to make an appointment again after wearing the custom orthotics for a few weeks, just to get a third opinion.
Where I’m at now
In the core of my soul… I don’t think I need surgery. My gut says I will heal and run again, maybe by the summer. There’s hardly any pain in my foot now, even when I press down trying to find a ‘hot spot,’ and my second toe does not appear to be shifting, splaying, or lifting of the ground.
One thing is certain, however.
I need to learn how to walk again.
I’ve been limping and favoring my metatarsal joint for so long that I now walk with my foot pointed out and weight rolled to my third and fourth metatarsal joints. I’m trying to correct this and hope my custom orthotics will help, once they are in. (It’s been two weeks so I’m calling today, hello, Ms. Assertive.) If not, my next step might be seeing a physical therapist and using a zero-gravity treadmill to ease into running slowly.
But that’s a conversation for a different day, seeing as how I’m not there yet.
I will be, though.
I don’t know when but it will happen. I will Recover. Run. Rejoice. And in time to be trained and ready to run the 2018 WDW Dopey Challenge next January!
Thanks for reading my VERY long update. Take care, be safe, and happy running!
Laura, I am sorry to read about your injury. Hopefully the orthotics will help. I wear them for other reasons and they are great. So if you have to wear them for the rest of your running career just do it. Make sure you break them in. Wear them 2 hours the first day, 3 hours the next day, 4 the next etc.. sometimes they forget to tell you and you can feel it in your knees. Also my guess is your feet will ache. Both feet, your entire foot. This is common b/c it is shifting your entire foot and how it strikes the ground when walking/running. Also I am surprised no one has recommended PT. Not to cure the tear but to help strengthen/stretch the muscles in your leg/foot. Which will help with your limp. I am a PT so I am bias but I am surprised. Please push for this for yourself. You mentioned that your deductible is high so just explain to the PT office you can only come a few times to get a good home program. Good luck and stay positive!
Thanks, Melanie!! I just posted today about my new orthodics … that I totally hate. 😉 The orthodist did give me a program to break them in, but I’m going back tomorrow to get the one trimmed and then I’ll try again with them. ShaeLee also gave me a heads up on the new Hoka Ora recovery sliders that I can wear the orthodics in, so I’m really excited about them! Ordering soon.
My orthodist did recommend ‘stride and strike’ PT and another person who went through a PPT also said using a zero-gravity treadmill helped a lot. I’m waiting to see how it goes with the orthodics and maybe get a second MRI before starting.
Hope you had a great time at SW Dark Side!! 🙂
Love your determination to find a solution and to keep in top of your care. I have a question; have you ever considered that treadmill use may be harming your recovery? I say this because though it has its uses (bad-weather training, etc), the pull of the belt isn’t normal to running. I get what I compare to “turf toe” when I do a lot of running on the treadmill and Shalane Flanagan actually pulled out of Boston due to a back unjustly that she sustained while training on the treadmill. Do you have a school track around you? I’m not a fan of trail running because I have to watch for the rocks and roots but that might also help.
Hmm, that’s something I definitely need to look into, since I normally do a lot of running on the treadmill. I’ve been sticking with the stationary bike or biking outside during the past seven months, but I’ll remember this for when I can start again. And yeah, I think my days of trail running are out. 🙁 And I’m ordering those Hoka sliders today! Thanks again for the heads up! 🙂
I was wearing the first GT-2000 style when I got ITBS, and when I went to the running store, they found the tread wasn’t where it should’ve been. I keep thinking “what if” I had known about the changes in ASICS and got fitted properly. I just assumed since I was wearing the 2100 series, the new GT-2000s would work fine. I won’t even wear ASICS now because they keep changing their models.
Yeah, I’m a Hoka girl from now on, not that I have much choice in the matter. 😉 And I won’t go by the opinion of a running store when it comes to shoes. I’ll do my research first! Had I done so, then maybe I wouldn’t be in this pickle. #couldawouldashoulda But yes, that’s great advice for everybody! Thanks! 🙂
I’m so so sorry to hear this. People always tell runners they’re going to ruin their knees, but it’s the feet that are the problem! It’s hard to be patient and wait for things to get better too. Some things I’ve learned: podiatrist are really variable in how they treat foot issues, I’m not a fan of custom orthotics (i use Spenco soft orthotics), and warming up my feet in the morning on a heat pad really helps.
I’ve had a lot of issues with my feet. Right now I’m testing out some PF flip flops that I’ll be reviewing next week on the blog. I’m liking them a lot…
Thanks so much, Wendy! My custom orthotics did come in …. and I hate them. 🙁 I’m getting them trimmed tomorrow to see if that helps and will give them another shot, but wow. The Spenco’s are sounding pretty good right now! And I’ll try your tip of warming up my feet … they’re always cold anyway and it sounds really nice. 😉
I am so sorry to hear about all of your frustrations and the back and forth circles you’ve had to go in! Glad to hear the foot is feeling better and on the mend!
Thanks, Karen! I know God always has a reason for things that happen so I’m hoping this is all just a long, long lesson learned that others can benefit from. 😉
I’m following along with your story Laura, stay strong, and take care of yourself! I know how hard having to slow down is, but can totally do what you need to in order to heal.
Thanks so much, Kristen, I appreciate it! 🙂
Hi there. I randomly came across your blog and I just wanted to recommend reaching out to Dr. Richard Blake – http://www.drblakeshealingsole.com/ for advice on your injury. His blog is FULL of info and he will happily answer questions via email, give advice and even look at your MRI if you mail it to him. It’s always nice to get another opinion especially from such a wonderful, caring and knowledgeable doctor.
Thanks so much for the lovely message! I’ll keep Dr. Blake in mind. 🙂
Found your blog article whilst googling about PPT’s. Will be following your recovery with interest. I was diagnosed with a PPT about 6 months ago and am desperate to get back to running. In fact to walk without limping would be nice! I have been a distance runner for a number of years and have always felt indestructible – never struggling with injuries until this. I changed my shoes from Brooks Ariels – very supportive shoes to Brooks Vapor as it was suggested that perhaps I did not need as much support. Now I am wondering if this lead to the injury or perhaps I am just falling apart now that I have turned 50😧. I was given orthotics by the podiatrist, shown how to tape my toes and told to ease back into running but as soon as I up the distance, my foot becomes painful and I am back to limping. Just today, the podiatrist suggested I try Hokas – so think I will give them a go. Hope you are making a steady recovery – would love to see an update o your progress.
Hi, Karen, sorry for my late response, but I’m hoping the Hokas are working out better for you! I wear the Hoka Arahi’s and they’re great. I’ve also heard that taking calcium, turmeric, and beet root are also helpful, so I’m taking them now. I still have pain in my left foot, but my doctor believes it’s from my calves being so stiff. I’m also now having pain in my right foot and have an appointment scheduled for next Tuesday. I miss the days when I had healthy feet!
Thank you Laura. I am in NY and was diagnosed with a PPT in April. Spent 12 weeks in a boot. Believe it or not, it happened because I used the “press to release feature” of my new Bosch oven warming drawer. Am going through much the same as you. Have to relearn how to walk. Tend to walk with my toes of injured foot curled downward to protect it, favoring by leaning foot to put pressure on 4th and 5th toes. Have seen 3 podiatrists and an orthopedic surgeon in NYC, HSS. I use a metatarsal pad daily which offloads pressure at the injury. Have not been taping toe, but am considering resuming that after your article, because the toe is not migrating upward and I want to keep it that way. My podiatrist says he doesn’t think the carbon graphite insole will be tolerable for me. But I feel I need the rigidity to be able to walk without having to stiffen my foot for protection. Is insole uncomfortable or hard on your hip or knees? I was a speed walker and yoga person. Painful losses. I too am hopeful and determined. We need to get more information out about this injury. Your post helps and I will follow your progress and keep you and others updated on mine. I am thinking of starting a support group in my area. There are more and more of us because MRI is now diagnosing accurately. Thanks again for speaking out on this important but little known injury.
Oh my gosh. I can’t believe I’ve allowed this comment and others to slip under my radar!! It’s been a while, but how are you feeling? And good news? I hope that by now, you’re well on your way to recovery and once again, my apologies for the late response.
Oh, and no, I didn’t think the carbon graphite was uncomfortable and I barely noticed it. It did alter my gate, though, since I had stopped “rolling” my foot as I walked and after I had been given the go-ahead to run again, I could barely lift my toes off the ground. I had to do a lot of foot strengthening exercises to get it back to normal! There’s one on The Run Experience that really helped:
https://youtu.be/6nz6kDUgirc
Take care!
Laura,
My case sounds a lot like yours. I’m an avid athlete and very frustrated with the planter plate injury that I’ve had since May. I had an x-ray and an MRI which showed the tear. I’ve tried everything from cortisone shots, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, off the shelf orthotics to the boot and metatarsel pads. Nothing has relieved the pain totally. The only shoe that helps is Hoka running shoe. My current orthopedist at HSS has told me repeatedly that the pain should subside over time and that surgery is not warranted. When you look at my two feet they both look the same. I don’t have a visible problem, however my third toe really hurts. The only thing I haven’t tried is a custom orthotic which is treatment of choice by the orthopedist at HSS. Previously I went to another orthopedist and two podiatrists. Laura, how did you make out with your custom orthotics? Any one have any other suggestions?
Hey Sam, my deepest apologies for my late response! I’m hoping that by now, you’ve found some relief. Please let me know how you’re doing!
I am still wearing my custom orthodics every time I run and I can’t imagine running without them now! I’m also loving my Hoka Arahi shoes. One thing I noticed, though, is that using custom orthodics makes them break down a lot faster compared to the 400+ miles I used to get out of my Brooks. I talked to my orthodist and she said it’s because my inserts are harder (especially at the heel to correct my poor heel strike,) so I will have to replace my running shoes more often. (Hokas tend to not last as long regardless.) But whatever, as long as I can still run, I’m fine with that!
So I’m curious: where are you feeling pain on your third toe, at the metatarsal joint? Or along the toe? I had a setback in October where I was feeling the same exact pain in my second metarasal on my right foot as I did on my injured left foot. I feared it was another PPT, but my doctor said the pain was because of tight muscles in my calves. I had grown very inflexible in my calves and hamstrings from limping and not working out for so long plus I have some nasty muscle knots that I’ve yet to work out. Calf stiffness can cause pain in your feet, knees, hips, etc., so he recommended stretching at least eight times daily, yoga, and more rolling.
I started doing PiYo Lower Body since it has great leg moves for runners. The first time made me very nervous whenever a move had me flexing the ball of my feet, but the more I did them, the better I felt.
Anyway, my apologies again for the late response and please give me an update on how you’re feeling now!
Take care,
Laura
Hi Laura,
I’m so happy I stumbled across your blog whilst research appropriate footwear for ppt. I’ve had it for about a year now, I’m a runner like you (ex runner for now!!) I spent April – October 2017 barely being able to walk with or with shoes. All doctors said it was inflamed metatarsals and to rest. Yawn. I got my custom insoles fitted Sept 1st and by October I could finally walk pain free whilst wearing them. They are now a part of me and my feet and I can’t cope without them. I can finally start walking bare foot again around the house which is so lovely! I’ve just started yoga as well which ex ppt’ers swear by. My yoga teacher had it 10 years ago. I do it at least 3 times a week and I should start seeing results in 1 month. Fingers crossed.
I hoope yours is doing well now and you’re back running! Hopefully I can be too by the end of the year 🙂
PS. I’ve had shock wave therapy – it really does work!!!
Hi Sophie, sorry for the late response, but I’m so glad the orthodics are giving you relief and yes – being able to walk barefoot again is such a blessing!!! I’ve been back to running for a while now and I hope that by this time, you are as well. Please be sure to let me know!
And oh my gosh, yoga is so important!!! I’ve become so inflexible after being seditary for so long and not flexing my left foot, so I started doing more PiYo Lower Body workouts that have been very helpful.
Take care!
I am now 8 months out from PPT been wearing custom orthotics and thought things were going well, but now all of a sudden feel like I am
feeling my foot again even at night. Starting to get depressed again as summer is approaching and can’t imagine another summer wearing socks and sneakers all of the time. Also becoming an issue for work as I have been wearing sneakers for 8 months and really would like to wear other shoes. Do you have any other shoes you can recommend for summer or comfy for work but not totally the sneaker commuter look?! Do you still have pain? Looks like you are doing much better if you just did the Disney marathon. Just trying to search for something to get over the hump and move on from this nagging injury.
Hi Dana, my sincerest apologies for the late response!!! I hope that by now, you’re feeling better.
It took about a year for me to be able to wear normal shoes again but I had to build up slowly by doing feet strengthening exerices, (The Run Experience has some great ones, https://youtu.be/6nz6kDUgirc) because my left foot had grown so weak. I could barely lift my toes off the ground while standing! I started off with flats and cushioned inserts and moved up slowly.
For the summer, because I work at home, I was able to get away with wearing Oofos flip flops, Hoka sliders, and Sketchers sneakers. I did see these various rocker bottom shoes online that might be good:
https://nicershoes.com/best-rocker-bottom-shoes-reviewed/
These are actually quite cute!!! https://tinyurl.com/ydcsns3o
Praying for your speedy recovery and be sure to let me know how you’re doing!
Take care,
Laura
Hi Laura,
Today I found your notes about PPT and feel very much identified with you.
I rolled over the stairs in flipflops one day I was running late to my karate practice and my left big toe took the worst part. Its been 6w since then and only now after 2Xray and 3 Doctors,the MRI got the diagnosis. After trying several NSAIDs, and pain killers. Im now resting at home, using marigold tablets, lidocain patchs, infrared and hot and cold therapy to help the swollen feeling in my foot as well as trying to do the first “steps” Of walking with the help of crutches and hoping in 3w on my next Dr check up Im ready to walk by myself again or at least upgrade to a cane haha. I feel your frustration and think i totally need a bracelet like yours haha. Im not giving up on this!
Oh man, Gloria, so sorry about your injury and for my late response! I’m praying that you are feeling more relief by now and on your way to recovery. Never heard of taking marigold tablets … I tried beet root, horsehair, horsetail, rhus tox and turmeric cumin. (I’m only taking beet root and turmeric now but not as often as I should.)
Be sure to let me know how you’re going now and yes, NO GIVING UP!! 🙂
Thx for sharing your story. I found out last week that I also have a partial PPT. I went into a boot yesterday for the next 6 weeks. My dr suggested the platelet treatment or some other surgery but it would require me to be non weight bearing for a while – and I can’t do that and still work. My foot actually stopped hurting after I made my appointment and I almost cancelled it. I was floored when the MRI showed a tear – I mean it was feeling at least 75% better than when I made the original appointment. I so want to be able to run again…but I want my foot to heal. The boot has no guarantees to work. I’m just hoping it will. How did you tape your toe??
So sorry about your injury, Stacey, that sucks! My sincerest apologies for my late response and I hope you’re feeling better by now.
Did the MRI show a partial or full tear? And has your toe shifted at all? If it’s a partial, than it is possible to recover without surgery. I’m assuming you’re out of your boot now – taping your toe and wearing a rocker-bottom shoe such as Hokas will help. This video shows how I taped mine: https://youtu.be/meUFV2UQyf8
I’m going to write a follow-up post today outlining some things I did after my PPT finally healed that might be helpful. Be sure to let me know how you’re doing now and I’ll do a better job responding!
Take care,
Laura
It was only a partial tear and I’m now out of the boot for past 2 weeks and doing PT. Dr isn’t having me do a follow up MRI. I don’t think the toe has shifted. I have to be in a stiff sole shoe with toe strapped down whenever I am up. I am not able to run yet per dr orders and no active or passive toe dorsiflexion. Not allowed elliptical. I am trying to maintain fitness but it’s tough without running- I am climbing stairs flat footed; it has been 8 or 9 weeks since I have ran. I go back to dr next week and hopefully she’ll let me start a little running
So glad to hear it was only a partial and your toes haven’t shifted! It might be a good idea to take a picture of your foot (if you haven’t already,) just so you’ll have a comparison for later. And I know it’s frustrating not being able to run now but this extra recovery time will ensure you’ll have a long running future!
There did come a point where I was allowed to bike which helped me tremendously. Best of luck and thanks for checking back in! Be sure to let me know when you get the go ahead to run. 😃
I’m allowed biking…but I get bored biking. I did the nustep a few times but have to concentrate heavily on intervals or it’s a snooze alert for me and pointless for any cardio if I’m not forcing myself to go hard for x amount of time and then easy. Walking and climbing flights of stairs has at least got my heart rate up. Fingers crossed for next week that maybe I could ease in to some intervals. Going to talk to the dr about the type of running shoe. She is also a runner so understands my desire to get back at it.
It’s always great when a doctor is a runner as well! They always understand the need to get back on the road more. Praying you can start intervals soon!!
Hey Laura,
I just read your blog and it has given me so much hope. I have been improperly diagnosed the past 1.5 years regarding the pain in the ball of my feet. I have seen countless Foot Doctors and after doing some of my own research, I feel that I have PPT. I hurt my foot from doing excessive walking while traveling overseas(not having good shoes and not knowing that I was flat footed) and when I came back after having a lot of pain in my foot, I went to a doctor who gave me a cortisone shot. This ended up making all the pain SO MUCH WORSE and I have been in excruciating pain ever since for the past year. Prior to the shot, I only had pain when wearing bad shoes, but post-shot I am in constant pain.
I read that you found that the cortisone shot could actually rupture the ligament, which I feel is precisely what ended up happening to me. Doctors have suggested a toe shortening surgery or another cortisone shot but in the “proper area”, but I am not sure what to do. I have custom orthotics and a metatarsal pad which seems to help with some pain, along with an anti-inflammatory cream.
I just got into grad school and need to move to New York and am hoping to solve this issue before I leave. Are there any suggestions you have?
Oh my gosh, Amir, I’m so upset with myself for allowing your message to slip under my radar!!!! My sincerest apologies … things have been crazy on my end but that’s a crappy excuse considering how hard this injury is to deal with.
And I’m pissed your doctor gave you a cortisone shot without getting an MRI taken first for an accurate diagnosis. Has your toe shifted or starting crossing over its neighbor? Have you gotten a second opinion yet? Have you tried taping your toe down? Taping my toe and wearing a carbon graphite insert along with my Hoka Arahi shoes really helped me to finally heal.
Can you please give me an update on how you’re feeling now in case I can offer any more help?
Hi Laura and others. I am glad to have read your blog because I was beginning to feel like this “Plantar plate tear” was a BS diagnosis. My pain probably started last fall while training for a 1/2 marathon. I remember saying to my husband “I think I broke my second toe” but since it wasn’t an important toe and I could keep running I pushed through it. The pain seemed to subside for the most part. Long runs of more than 10 miles would leave me with my foot hurting. Anyway I was training for another shamrock 1/2 marathon just recently and after an almost 12 mile training run I found myself in a lot of pain. I took a couple days off and tried but just could t keep up with my group. Again took more days off but still couldn’t get back to the training. I decided to see a foot and ankle ortho doc that I knew. He told me I had metatarsalgia and handed me these 3/4 length inserts and said wear these, they should help. Well BS, they made my foot hurt so much worse because they seemed to cause me to push forward in my shoe putting more pressure on the ball of my feet. He also told me I couldn’t make it worse by running and though I should do more cross training than running to train I could do my 1/2. A week later after ditching the inserts he gave me I decided I wanted to go to a PT. I was thankful I did, she taped my foot (differently than you show) and I was able to get through my 1/2. Though my foot went numb around mile 6, then searing pain around mile 7 and a walk/Run from there to the finish (which sucked bc I had come out of the gate so strong). The pain after was better than I suspectes it would be but it was there still and I wanted another opinion. I went to a podiatrist that came highly recommended and she concurred with the metateasalgia diagnosis and showed me how to tape my toe the way you show (they call it strapping) and said I could try a short run (no more than 3 miles) that weekend tonsee hownit feels. It didn’t feel bad, however I was doing a warm up 3/4 mile Run with the track team that I coach the following Monday and holy cow when I got home that night I was in tears. I iced my foot and called the doc the next morning. She recommended I go in a boot until after getting an MRI. I was only in the boot a couple days before the MRI last weekend and I met with her yesterday to go over my “options”. The MRI showed a “docs discontinuity at the insertion” which she explained to me was a complete tear HOWEVER she also said that there are times that the imagin is not 100% correct and her gut tells her it’s likely connected by a thread. My choices are to stay in the boot another 3 weeks and see or surgery to repair it. I am an avid runner and I absolutely love it. Not being able to run for the last 9 weeks the way I have for years has been very upsetting. I am feeling like surgery is my only option as my goal is to run again. I have another apt with another podiatrist tomorrow for another opinion but I have put the surgical lab in motion. Did they tell you what grade tear yours was? Am I crazy to let them operate on my foot? I have so many mixed feelings but not running again is not an acceptable outcome. I hope I do the right thing.
I’m so sorry to hear about your injury!! And my deepest apologies for my delayed response … I truly am feeling like a total terd right about now for taking so long.
Just say you responded to another reader’s question, so I’ll write a longer message there.
That should say “focal discontinuity” when describing the tear.
I was just diagnosed with a ruptured plantar plate—lots of pain over the last couple months. I mostly walk and play pickleball, and when I pickle, I play 3-4 hours. By the end of the 3rd or 4th hour, I am miserable. Monday night, 2 days ago, I had the worse pain in my 2nd toe—felt like something popped at the same time as my 2nd toe shoving into my foot (it felt like that…not sure if that really happened). I had to stop playing, and after an xray at regular doctor, I got a referral to a podiatrist, and this a.m., she said ruptured. After reading about this, I fit the bill: middle-aged woman, pronated feet, 2nd toe longer than big toe. I did get a cortisone shot—doctor said since it was ruptured, and horribly swollen (and my 2nd toe is leaning towards my big toe), it couldn’t hurt. My pain has subsided tremendously at this point (4 hours later). I am now shopping for court shoes. Doctor recommended Hoka’s but it looks like they only make running shoes? I am going to go try some on. Oh, doctor also recommended taping of the 2nd toe, and metatarsal pad. I am not doing orthotics at this time, but maybe…want to see if I can go without. Thank you fo your info—this all sucks so much!
Hey Cheryl, I’m so sorry about your injury … it really does SUCK!!! I hope you’re feeling better at this point and feeling some relief while resting. I second the taping recommendation as that, along with a carbon graphite insert, my Hokas, and lots of rest, was what finally got my injury to heal!
Please leave me an update about how you’re feeling now and I’m praying for your speedy recovery!
My foot doctor said I didn’t need to wear the carbon fiber insert with my Hoka Bondis because the store is already stuff. But you were told to wear it? I have a sure joint on top of my second toe and an MTP injury and therapy caused capsulitis and strained my plantar plate when I had been doing well. Now I can barely walk and this has been a 6 month battle. Did I mention that I was put in a boot that gave me blood clots in my calf with no prior health issues?
It’s been 6 months since my misdiagnosis of metatarsalgia. Treatment was rest, NSAIDS, CBD oil, acupuncture, a boot for 6 weeks. Nothing helped. The 2nd and 3rd toes looked like sausages and top of foot was very swollen. It ached all the time. The acupuncture relieved some of the swelling. I was correctly diagnosed with a ppt just last month. I finally went to an Orthopedic foot specialist at MGH. He recommended hard soled shoes like Danskos and Hokas. He said I could try one last conservative treatment before surgery; a guided cortisone shot into the 2nd met joint. Of course I tried this to avoid surgery. He said no weight bearing for 3 weeks. I’m 2 weeks into this, getting around with a scooter. Swelling is down quite a bit. Don’t really know if I can walk pain free since I can’t walk on it. As a result of this injury I feel my body is so misaligned. Now I have back and shoulder pain and just generally achy. The whole experience has been depressing. I was a speed walker who walked everywhere prior to this injury. I have been riding a bike and even tried a rowing machine.
I’d love to hear back from Caryn and Laura to see if they had their surgeries and how they are doing since. THANK YOU!
Hi there Cecilia,
My second opinion was exactly what I needed. The doctor was very clear when he said that my plantar plate tear would not heal itself. He was an older doctor and no longer preforms surgery so my decision on which doctor to stick with was easy. I really liked the podiatrist that ordered the MRI and got to the bottom of this injury.
I had the surgery on 4/25 and am still non weight baring. The result of the surgery was that I had a complete tear of the plantar plate ligament (which we saw on the MRI) and I also tore my tendon (the MRI didn’t pick that up). I have quite an incision on the bottom of my foot but the stitches may come out tomorrow. Some pain off and on depending on how much time I spend off the couch but ice helps a lot.
You mention that you are having a guided cortisone shot. Something you might want to watch out for is, both of the doctors that understood the extend of my injury asked me if I had had a cortisone shot. I am allergic and in this case that allergy was the best thing I could have. A cortisone shot would have compromised the integrity of the ligament and tendon causing me to need to wait at least 6 months after the shot before surgery could have been done.
Good luck to you.
Hi Cecilia, first off–I’m so sorry to hear about your injury and I’m praying for your speedy recovery! I know it’s very frustrating, but the best thing you can do for your body now is just rest and allow your foot to heal.
Unlike Caryn, I only had a partial plantar plate tear that was able to heal through conversative treatments such as taping down my second toe, wearing carbon graphite inserts with rocker-bottom shoes, (Hoka Arahi,) taking supplements such as turmeric cumin, horsetail, and beet root, and rest. I did do a lot of biking (about three months after my injury,) but I kept the pedal at the middle of my foot to keep the pressure off my metatarsal joint plus I wore my graphite insert to better distribute the weight.
I didn’t get the go-ahead to run until mid-June, but it took me a long time to get used to wearing my custom orthodics. But in September 2017, I was able to run most of the Disneyland Half Marathon!
I second Caryn’s thoughts that avoided another cortisone shot would be good. Also, have you had an MRI for an accurate diagnosis? This would show whether your tear is a partial or full one and will determine if surgery is your only option. Please keep me updated!
Take care,
Laura
Thank you Caryn and Laura. Yes, I had an MRI and it said that it was I’ll defined, but the foot expert at MGH viewed the MRI and diagnosed a PPT. I also has that same diagnosis from a Podiatrist. I’m now wearing Hokas with a Budin Splint and Superfeet orthotics. Still not weight bearing, will stay off for another two weeks. Hoping no surgery.
Caryn, how are you feeling?
Cecilia
I am doing OK. I started weight baring with crutch support and I am not gonna lie, it hurts. But it is getting better every day. The hardest thing about this surgery is that this is my right foot so I cannot drive. I have my almost 4 week follow up next Monday and the goal is to have me walking in there in the boot without needing any support. From there they will fit me with a custom orthodox and in another 4-5 weeks get me starting to run again . I am really hoping that I can ride a bike or do some form of cross training. It’s hard for an active person to be laid up.
I was happy to read nonsurgery for you. Take care.
Praying for you to be done with those crutches and back out on the road soon!!! Thanks for checking back in and be sure to let me know of your progress.
15 weeks post op, PT has been going well though I just changed where I am going. For those that have had surgery, how long until you could really run again? I am at 8-10 minutes but really want to be able to do more. Before my surgery my doctor told me I would be Reach the Beach ready by September (that is a team relay race here in NH) and I had to pull off my team bc I am not. I AM doing the Army 10 miler in DC in Oct and really want to be able to run at least most of it if not all. Feel super frustrated with my foot. Also wondering if I should give Hoka’s a try. I am running in Brooks with my orthodic but just learned I am altering my foot strike
I know this is an old blog, but Caryn, or anyone else who had surgery, wondering how your surgery came out. Dealing with this to. Thank you.
Hi Laura,
For starters, thank you for sharing your story and for giving me (and others in similar situation) an opportunity to pick your brain, vent, share, etc…I am SO glad to hear your experiences and realize there may be a light at the end of the tunnel.
I too was diagnosed (finally) with a partial-plantar-plate-tear in April ’18. It took an MRI to do so but am glad to at least have a diagnosis. Much like you, mine came on with little to no noticeable trauma. I was doing a night trail run in January ’18, stumbled, caught myself…then kept on going. The next morning is when I noticed.
I have re-read your story and am curious about a couple of things I hope you can shed some light on…
1) How long did you wear the walking boot? Til January of ’17 when you found the Hokas?
2) How did you know you were healed? Did you have a final MRI to confirm?
3) Finally, how did you ease out of walking boots, met pads, and taping and subsequently ease back in to “normal” life (so to speak)? Crawl walk run if you will 🙂
Again – thanks for sharing your story. Sucks being a runner that can’t run. You’ve given me inspiration that my day will come 🙂
Snap! I just saw your other blog PPT From Sidelined to Finish Lines…answers some of my previous questions. Six weeks in boot. Final MRI to determine there was no more tear 🙂
After the walking boot, for how long did you tape, wear met pads, and wear your Hokas?
Ugh, my apologies for the late response but I taped and wore the met pads for around two months. I still wear Hokas for running but started to wear other shoes (with low heels) in April. By the fall, roughly one year after my injury, I was able to wear high heels for a couple hours at a time.
Hi Laura, thank you for the exhaustive write-up. It sounds like you and I have a fairly similar story. I’m in month 7 of my plantar plate tear recovery, and I’m probably at about 60% strength. I’m not sure I’ll ever fully heal, but at least I can run again.
Similar story, carbon fiber for casual/dress shoes, and custom insole with metatarsal pad for athletic shoes. I did the PRP shot after about 2 months, and pretty much begged for it. The doctor gave it to me reluctantly as it wasn’t covered by insurance. I feel it helped a fair amount and might opt for another shortly.
I’d love to hear an update about where you are with your toe drift, pain, and athletic ability since your last post. Do you feel close to 100% yet?
Hi, Paul! I, too, asked about a PRP shot and was basically told it wouldn’t do any good which was frustrating. I’m glad you stuck to your gut and that it has helped!
Yes, I do feel as though I’m at 100% and any foot pain I feel I believe is now from my tight calves. I must admit to slacking off during the past few months and not being as religious with rolling and stretching, something I need to improve on. I’ve also had no toe drift, thank God! So I’m very lucky and very grateful.
Question for you: Are you still wearing the carbon inserts every day then? My doctor told me to stop using mine since it was weakening my foot. He said the sooner I started to really use my foot normally the faster it would grow strong again. He also had me start wearing different kind of shoes in order to strengthen different foot muscles. The foot strengthening exercises on The Run Experience’s YouTube channel were also very helpful!
Best of luck with your continuing healing and getting back to that 100%!
I’ve moved off the carbon fiber insoles since pain has decreased and also because of the inconvenience.
Since the last post I’ve found athletic shoes with a stiffer sole which have helped me more frequently exercise at a more intense level, I’m very happy with that.
Thank you for the Youtube channel suggestion, I’m going to check that out.
Thanks for your story again!
Nice, that’s a great step, getting away from the stiff insole so your foot can function normally again and grow stronger! Praying for your continued recovery and that you’ll be back on the road soon. 🙂
THANK YOU!!!! I had this injury recently and had the same sort of brush off by the first foot doctor I saw. X-Ray and a pad with loop to hold the toe in place and a recommendation for footbed and metatarsal pad if I want to run again once the pain is managed.
Nothing about taping (I’m looking THAT up next) and no MRI to actually visualize the severity of the tear.
My 2nd metatarsal is elongated so ‘you are prone to this deteriorating over time’ and a recommendation to find alternative exercise.
So, THANK YOU for your examination and post about your journey and your recommendations on dealing with foot docs!
So glad my post was helpful! Have you tried taping yet and if so, was it helpful? (I bought a pad with loop as well, but taping worked much better.) Hoping you were also able to get an MRI for an accurate diagnosis and that you’re on the road to recovery! 🙂
Thank you for sharing your story! After reading it and all the comments, I feel so blessed to have a doctor who diagnosed my Plantar Plate tear quickly. And I wish I had this to read back then! I couldn’t find any personal experiences of it except for a well-known football player. I tore it in October 2016. There was no injury, it just started hurting. Mine was in my third (middle) toe on my right foot. My toe ballooned with inflammation along with the ball of my foot and the top of my foot. The diagnosis was confirmed with an MRI. The doc gave me two options—surgery or a conservative approach of using a boot and staying off of it. I asked him if I were his wife, what would he suggest and he said the conservative approach. I taped my toe down and wore a boot. The doc prescribed a pack of prednisone (don’t love steroids but they do miraculous things for us when needed!) that I took for a week. That helped tremendously with the inflammation. After a few weeks I felt it wasn’t getting any better. The doc said the best thing to do was to stay off of it as much as possible. As a mother of five kids, I couldn’t spend much time off of my foot. So I decided I need to do something more drastic—I used a crutch to take the pressure off of my foot and then used a knee scooter whenever I could. This proved to help a lot. I was determined to get back to exercising. I’m not gonna lie, I got discouraged and wondered if it would ever heal. After nearly four months in a boot, I was healed and could take it off. I still used my scooter when I had to walk distances. The doc suggested getting some type of an orthotic shoe, but after shopping for those “nurse” shoes, I didn’t want to spend that much money on something I would not wear long. So I opted for a really nice comfortable pair of running shoes. I went to therapy to regain my strength. I remember in the initial assessment with the therapist, he asked me to raise up on my toes—I couldn’t physically do it! My calf muscle was so weak. I continued therapy for a couple of months, working hard at home, too. After 7 months, I was finally able to work out again! Now fast forward to a few weeks ago…my left foot started hurting. In the last two toes. The symptoms started the same and became awfully familiar! And now I have been diagnosed with the same thing (without an MRI because the X-ray was negative and symptoms the same)! Now it’s in my left foot, the toe next to my pinky. So I am starting the process all over again. I am ahead of the game this time. Hoping it won’t take as long. The doc says it may heal quicker in this toe because it’s more towards the edge of my foot and not in the center. After reading all these experiences (although I know every “body” is different) I feel like the fact that I was non-weight bearing as much as possible made all the difference! I hope this can help someone. I did notice after I injured my first foot, that as a stresser, I tend to sit with my heels raised, thus putting pressure on my toes and joints. So perhaps this has been brewing a long time for me. I hope you are healed and feeling better!
Oh wow, that is quite the recovery story!! And man, I’m so sorry to hear that after all that, you went through the same issues with your right foot. I, too, thought I had another PPT tear on my right foot, but my doctor said the pain was coming from my extremely tight caft muscles. (I have some bad muscle knots and it I hit them just right while rolling, I can feel the pain radiating down my leg to the exact spot on my metatarsal joint.) I also couldn’t raise the toes of my left foot after healing as well! Kind of freaked me out.
Anyway, thank you so much for sharing your experience and I hope you’re continuing to heal and feel better!! I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Wow, thanks for sharing your story. I’ve been suffering through this since May of 2017, Finished a half and just thought my Asic’s toe box was too narrow. Then finally told my Sports Med doc when getting treated for a torn gluteus medius. She recommended pads but that really didn’t help. Took of 6 weeks after some intestinal surgery but the pain was actually worse just taking short walks, odd. Got back to putting in the miles and did some halves and a full the 1st half of the year. Pain still there. After resting from the full and still walking with pain got an MRI. Diagnosis was stress reaction to the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal along with bursitis in both of those joints. He recommended a boot for weeks. 1 week in the they noticed the partial plantar tear. I thought, no big deal, partial. Good news is the bone pain gone but I had to ditch my NYC Marathon plan since I could not push off in August. Finally decided to search for some options in dealing for the pain before a 15K this past Sunday. Found the same tape video you shared and it did wonders. Decided to see a podiatrist today and he pretty much confirmed all that was said in the blog and comments. He said chances are it might never heal but if taping works, go with it. Only concern is that eventually the bone on bone in the joint since it’s now not functioning right will cause issues down the road. I guess I’ll see what happens. Signed up for a half in two weeks followed by a 10 miler two weeks after. Probably not the smartest move but I’ve been in pain for 16 months or so what’s the downside. Thanks for sharing your story and spurring on the stories of others. Never thought this was going to be such a big deal
Ugh, I’m sorry you’ve been dealing with this frustrating injury and feeling pain for a long time! It sucks big time. I’m glad you were at least able to get an accurate diagnosis through the MRI.
Now. You’re not going to like what I’m about to say … and yes, I have zero medial training but based off my experience, I think it’d be good for you to skip those races and take a break from running. I fear that if you push too hard, that partial could become a full tear and the only way you’d have ANY chance of recovery from that is through surgery.
And yes, there is a chance partial tears might not heal. But mine did and so have many others, but that only happened after I took the time to properly heal. And I know how frustrating not being able to run is, but it’s better to be a temporarily sidelined runner than a forced non-runner. Sorry if that sounds preachy, but I gotta keep it real here.
Are you noticing any shifts in your toes on your injured foot or are any of them starting to cross over the other?
I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers for your speedy recovery and be sure to let me know how things work out!
Thank you for writing about this! I was diagnosed with a plantar plate lesion after being misdiagnosed with sesamoiditis. I was in a walking boot for a month and then did not run at all for over a month. I very slowly added in mileage and did the Army Ten miler yesterday. And now my foot is throbbing. And I’m panicking that it’s back. Never knew about the Hoka’s, will try those out. Coincidentally enough (or maybe not!), I ran my marathon that started all this in GT 2000’s…
So sorry to hear that you’ve been dealing with this frustrating injury and congrats for finishing the 10-Miler! That’s a bucket list race for sure.
Now. About that pain. Where are you feeling it? In the same place … like if you massage the bottom of your foot with your thumb, do you feel it mostly in or around the metatarsal joint that had the lesion? (I’ve never heard of it being called a lesion, btw, is that the same as a tear?)
Also, do you have any tightness in your calves as a result of wearing a boot? The reason I’m asking is because my calves became VERY tight throughout my healing plus I have several muscle knots. This caused pain in both my feet, making me fear a re-injury. My doctor recommended more stretching since my calves had become inflexible. The pain subsided after I did more stretching, yoga, (PiYo Lower Body is amazing,) and rolling, although I’m still not doing enough.
It’d be a good idea to schedule a doctor appointment. (Especially if yours is always booked like mine.) I’d also back off from running for a while and concentrate on stretching, yoga, and rolling until then. Do you have any more races this year? If not, maybe consider taking a running break for a couple of months and do other activities such as spinning. I’m not a doctor by any means, but you might just need some extra healing time.
Again, sorry you’re going through this … it SUCKS!! I’ll keep you in my prayers and be sure to let me know how it’s going. 🙂
I too am suffer from a tear in my plantar plate. I’ve been living with dull, subsiding pain for probably a year. Like yours, the pain would come and go so, like the stubborn suck-up-the-pain asshole that i am, i ignored it…FOR MONTHS. I finally had enough and went to my primary for a check up. He gave me an RX for a prescription strength anti inflammatory, Voltaren. Talk about a miracle pill. My foot pain was gone! I felt so relieved and was able to resume my long walks, hikes and OT class. I felt great. Welp, doc didn’t mention this is not a healthy long term medication as it causes renal damage. Guess what i got??? A bum foot and signs of renal damage. Finally a trip to the podiatrist! Xrays were clear, orthotics prescribed, insurance DENIAL. A dramatic email sent out of desperation and i wind up getting an ultra sound and a diagnoses. 5 weeks in a boot, toe splint AND an insole. 4 more weeks to go. Literally want to smash this boot into a thousand pieces because my foot still hurts. Long winded, not even sure if anyone will read this…lol…but I feel not so alone in this slow ass process to heal my dumb ass foot. I asked my doc if amputation of toe is an option…yea…that desperate for pain free mobility. Heh. Good luck and happy healing.
I had PP surgery Jan 1 after 12 weeks in a boot that did not help at all. After 6 weeks in a cast, 4 in a boot and 12 sessions of PT I’m still not pain free. The Doctor says 14-18 weeks to be totally back to normal. my patience is wearing thin!
I had PP surgery Jan 1 after 12 weeks in a boot that did not help at all. After 6 weeks in a cast, 4 in a boot and 12 sessions of PT I’m still not pain free. The Doctor says 14-18 weeks to be totally back to normal. my patience is wearing thin!
Hey Greg, how the surgery work out for you? Thinking of the same thing.
THANK YOU!!!!! for your post!!!!! I have been looking for 2 days for information on “plantar plate attenuation”, and every . single . search comes up with “tear” or “rupture” and gory pictures of surgery. My podiatrist offered me 3 options: 1) cast, 2) boot, 3) “toe straightener” strap/pad to wear in my existing shoes. I chose #3 because I can’t make split-second decisions. (And I’d already managed to keep it immobile enough for the previous week that the pain had greatly diminished.) Now I’m thinking I should have gone with a boot…not for normal days (I have a desk job), but for when I cannot completely concentrate on not bending my foot…especially once the pain is far enough in the past I get sloppy!
Help! I’ve been suffering with a partial plantar plate tear for a year now. Tried taping, metatarsal pads, rocker shoes…still painful. Getting opinions all over the map. I live in Howard County, MD between DC and Baltimore. PLEASE tell me where to see an expert in this condition…orthotist? podiatrist? surgeon?
Sorry for my late reply, but I saw Dr. Stuart Miller who has offices in Westminster and Baltimore, MD. Highly recommend! https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctor/dr-stuart-david-miller-md/ Praying for your speedy recovery!
I am waiting on MRI results from this AM. I have been to 3 doctors and going to #4 on Wednesday. Started from running I felt like my toe was ripping off, burning, tingling pain. I backed off running it got better then did it again. I went to my podiatrist who diagnosed encapsulitis and gave me a cortisone shot and took images for custom orthotics. Came back about 8 weeks later, no relief just getting worse. The podiatrist now said I had dislocation syndrome, tape my toe and wear orthotics the rest of my life. Knowing she doesn’t do surgery, I then started to get concerned my foot is never going to get better and I need another opinion. This time went to an orthopedic doctor whos diagnosis was tight calves.. told me to get a calf stretcher and it will improve. Several months have now gone by and I can only wear my Oofos flip flops or tennis shoes with toe taped and orthotics. I was a runner and big into yoga. I am sure the downward dog in power yoga is what put it over the top. I have now went to another podiatrist who performs a lot of surgery but so nervous that im not going to heal correctly. All of the blogs you read etc seem negative….UUUGGHGH. My second toe has drifted a bit towards the big toe, so I am not feeling very good about this. The newest x-rays from last week the showed the bone shifted from the last x-rays. I await my foot verdict here and really don’t know what I will do. I feel super depressed over all of this and it hurting with every step I take.
Ugh, that really suck, Laura. Praying for your speed recovery and hope you’re back to normal very soon!!!!
Oh man, Laura, you’ve been going through such a nightmare. That truly sucks and I’m so sorry to hear you’re dealing with this!!! Hoping you were able to get an accurate diagnosis from the MRI and I’m praying for your recovery. As for the depression … girl, been there. I know it’s hard and I know it sucks, but make sure you take care of yourself and keep talking to folks who understand! There’s facebook groups for injured runners … Sub 30 Club: IRC is one of them.
Hi. I diagnosed my own partial plantar plate tear almost five years ago. It took three doctors and two months to get to that conclusion officially! Your blog post is new since then! After 8 plus months, I finally gave in and had surgery because by then we had tried absolutely everything else (and I tend to be very sensitive to adhesive on tape.) It turns out that it had gotten worse. . . Something else had ruptured and the hammer toe situation was painful, too. So, I found your blog because I think I have it in the other foot now. I stubbed my second and third goes on my son’s high chair a couple weeks ago. My actual toe for feels fine, but I realize I have been walking on the outside of my foot.
Argh, I’m so sorry you’ve been dealing with this awful injury and surgery not only for your one foot, but also now the next??? That sucks big time and I’m praying that by now, you’re feeling relief!!
Aloha,
Mahalo for posting your blog. I’m going through much of the same and trying to read up on it as much as possible. I had pain in the ball of my foot and then my second toe drifted under my big toe, then I got hammer toe. I had surgery on it and now the toe has drifted the other way to sit on top of the third toe. I’ve been walking on the outside edge of my foot for a long time due to discomfort. Saw another podiatrist yesterday who put me in an arch support and I will go back in three weeks to let him know if I’ll do another surgery (re-break the toe and pin again.) I now have atrophy of the ball of my foot that can’t be repaired but he knows my goal is to be able to hike again. There’s so many beautiful places to hike here in Hawaii and I’m not giving up.
Sending you Aloha,
Heather
Great information here! I started running after I turned 40 a few years ago. Last winter I also experienced what I believe was a partial plantar plate tear. I am usually reluctant to go to the doctor (self-employed, high deductible also) but the fear of not being able to run made me go. My experiences were similar but I didn’t persevere as much as you did! The diagnosis was, “you have a hammer toe,” to which I replied, “yes, but I didn’t before my foot swelled up two weeks ago!”
I too have been wearing the ugly but wonderful Hokas and did lots of taping. I read some interesting information on “Morton’s toe” or Morton’s foot which seems to predispose people to these type of injuries. I use a modified gel pad on the ball of my foot it the first metatarsal area which seems to have helped also.
I also started my own blog to celebrate, called learningnewtricks.com to celebrate doing new things even as we get older!
I was looking around the internet for plantar plate injuries and came across your blog. How have things turned out? What helped the most? I feel that I will never get better!
You can see my story above but I’ll finish it here. For my second tear, I wore a boot again and used a knee scooter and crutches to stay non-weight bearing as much as possible. This second time I was in a boot for 5 months until my foot wasn’t in pain and the inflammation was gone for the most part—not sure why it was a little bit longer than the first time. After I had my boot off for couple of weeks, I started physical therapy. I did it for 3 months and it was a life changer! The first time I only completed about a month of it. I still experiences stiffness in my injured toe when I injured my second foot two years later. But the three months of therapy this second time around made my second foot Injury better than the first one! And actually the last month I had him work on both feet and now both feel great! I am completely healed. I had to wait until after therapy to fully work out again and now almost a year later everything is still great. One thing my therapist is really good at is massaging the foot and toes at every appointment. I feel like this is what I missed the first time around and feel like it made all the difference. I hope this helps. I can’t help but think after going through two different injuries on two different toes and having success, that the way I went through recovery has to be the best way which is being patient and staying off your foot and then complete therapy. It was grueling mentally and emotionally but I’m glad I persevered! My best wishes for you!
Hi Pat, I’m in same boat. Did yours ever heal. This is taking forever.
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I am at month 7 of my partial plantar plate tear injury. I got it from gardening. I was first misdiagnosed with metatarsalgia and nerve irritation for the first 4 months. I had to beg to get xrays as I was seen as overdramatic by my doctor, even though my foot was not improving… After my foot xray, I had an ultrasound, another xray (but for my pelvis: doc thought I also had uneven legs) and a MRI. I’ve seen a physiotherapist, a podiatrist, a chiro and my GP. My foot have been taped (plantar fasciitis style) and I’ve never been that numb. I was prescribed a boot, but it made my foot and leg so numb and painful I could not wear it. I am now wearing a plantar offloading shoe (stiff sole) and I am walking with a cane. My other foot is in Asics. I now make about 500 steps a day (I used to aim for 10K steps to please my fitbit) and I am feeling very depressed, especially in a never-ending lockdown. I am young, but I feel like I will stay crippled for the rest of my life. All I want is being able to run errands and go hiking. I am basically stuck inside the house and feel isolated. I wish I had broken a bone instead as it heals faster than ligaments! To anyone out there with the same injury, I wish you will recover fast. I am so grateful I found your blog, Laura.
Can you please let me know the physician name, as we are looking for doctor in MD for treatment.
Thank you
great article , really appriciate
I am dealing with the same thing. SAME! Have been to podiatrist… orthotist etc. I have tossed all of my cheap shoes and flip flops. I’ve bought firm soles shoes. This has been going on since December and it’s now September. No specific memory of an incident that caused it. Wore a boot for 6 weeks! Went to PT for a month. Realize that I will probably never walk barefoot around the house again. I don’t know… do I live with it? My running days are over… I trained for and ran a few marathons and my knees told me that was enough for me. I have a peleton and love it so I ride now. Well… if you find a miracle cure… please share!!
I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for making this blog and sharing your story about plantar plate tear! I discovered my left plantar plate was torn after months of gradually increasing pain (and activity modification) in 2019 when I found your blog. Doctors I’d seen didn’t know how to help me and conservative measures did not seem to work. I had to travel out of state to finally have mine surgically repaired. It was torn under my first ray, so it was difficult to access without careful surgical dissection of nerves and blood vessels, and the surgeon I saw at Mayo Clinic Arizona admitted he had only done this surgery ONCE in his career, it’s so rare. I guess it most commonly tears under the second toe area and can be accessed from the top of the foot should one need surgery. Anyway, mine was not so easy but I underwent the surgery and the long recovery (3 months casted, 6 months of PT before being back to “normal”) and my tear is healed. The most helpful gem of information from your blog for me was to go purchase a carbon fiber plate insole. This basically allowed me to turn my new balance (and later, Hoka) shoes into stiff shoes to protect my tear from worsening before surgery and also to protect the toe when I first transitioned back into shoes from the boot. Unfortunately along the path to finding my life saving surgeon, I was advised to get a steroid injection in the joint (2018). I did this not knowing that it could increase my risk for arthritis or progress arthritis more quickly. It did just that, and now I am recovering from a second surgery where they removed one of my arthritic sesamoids (the fibular/lateral one). I’m still keeping hope for healing and getting back to normal life and activity again. Thank you for sharing your story.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Wow, you’ve been through the ringer, I’m sorry for your injury! and how a doctor added to your issues with a steroid shot! I hope your second surgery gave you some relief and that you won’t have to go through that again. Sending you tons of healing vibes and praying for your full recovery! Sounds like you’re taking all the steps to get there!