Lesão da Placa Plantar: a Importância do Diagnóstico Diferencial

Abstract

Plantar plate lesions are a common cause of metatarsalgia, a prevalent symptom among the general population and athletes. The plantar plate is a fibrocartilaginous structure located in the plantar side of the feet, that is partly responsible for articular stability. High-impact activities and overuse contribute to plantar plate lesions. The diagnosis is mainly clinical but magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound can be useful for differential diagnosis. Generally, conservative management, which includes analgesia, shoe adaptation and rehabilitation, is the preferred first treatment option. Surgi¬cal treatment is indicated for severe cases or refractory cases, and post-surgical rehabilitation is mandatory for prognostic optimization.