How do you treat a plantar plate tear at home?

Non-surgical treatment of a torn plantar plate involves a combination of massage and exercises. Along with foot massage, toe push ups, lesser toe flexion exercises, calf raises and balance exercises can help improve speed unhealthy following injury. Taping, shoe modification and use of splint also help the healing.

In mild cases of plantar plate tears, home remedies can be used to treat pain and symptoms that may arise. Orthotics can be used to pad the area while weight is placed onto the foot while walking towards the arch of the foot. 

Strapping and taping the foot can reduce pain and provide stability to the injured toe, keeping it in the right direction. Shoes with stiff soles can also provide good support to the foot while walking or running. 

Gentle exercise can be done should your pain be minimal. If pain arises, or the toe has increased deformity, seek medical advice for further management.

Shoes that provide adequate toe room and a soft sole will lessen any potential aggravation of symptoms in the feet. Shoes work much like orthotics; they distribute weight towards the arch of the foot and away from the area of the injuries plantar plate.

There are several do-it-yourself exercises that you can perform to speed up healing after a plantar plate tear. The most common examples include toe push-ups, calf raises, balance exercises, and toe flexion exercises. You can also toe splints or padding.