The plantar plate is firm but flexible fibrocartilage with a composition similar to that found in the menisci of the knee (composed roughly of 75% type-I collagen), and can thus withstand compressive loads and act as a supportive articular surface.
[3] The skeleton of the foot rests on a multi-layered ligamentous system of beams and trusses that responds to weight-bearing on irregular surfaces.
[4] The tendon of the extensor digitorum longus muscle extends the MTP joint by using the plantar fibroaponeurotic structure as a sling.
The muscle becomes a deforming force if the MTP joint is held in an extended position over a long time, such as in a high-heeled footwear.
The lumbrical muscles, attached to the medial side of the lesser toes, act as unopposed adductor, but become insufficient plantar flexors with chronic extension.