Plantar plate of distal interphalangeal joint

The plantar plate of the distal interphalangeal joint is a fibrocartilaginous structure located on the plantar aspect of the joint. It is anatomically distinct from the more substantial plantar plates found at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints, but shares similar histological features. The plantar plate is composed primarily of dense, longitudinally oriented collagen bundles, with fewer chondrocytes and a greater abundance of fibroblasts as it tapers distally. Its proximal attachment is to the base of the distal phalanx, and it merges laterally with the collateral ligaments and the deep transverse intermetatarsal ligament, forming a stabilizing soft tissue box around the joint.

The central fibers of the plantar plate insert into the proximal phalanx via multiple interdigitations, with the longest interdigitations found centrally, suggesting that this region bears the greatest mechanical load. The plantar plate is closely associated with the flexor tendons, and its structure is adapted to withstand both compressive and tensile forces during toe movement and weight-bearing.