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Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that affects the feet and spreads in damp, high traffic environments. It develops when fungi grow on the surface of the skin, especially in areas that remain warm and moist for long periods of time. Athlete's foot is extremely contagious and can spread through shared footwear, locker rooms, and public showers. Individuals with a weakened immune system or diabetes may be at a higher risk, as their bodies may have more difficulty fighting off infections.

The symptoms of athlete's foot depend on the specific type of infection. Many people experience itching, burning, and irritation that can worsen after removing shoes. Interdigital athlete's foot causes skin breakdown between the toes, often appearing white, soggy, or cracked. Plantar athlete's foot affects the bottom of the foot and causes dry, scaly skin that may extend along the sides of the foot. Additionally, acute vesicular athlete's foot is characterized by sudden blister formation, with itchy or painful fluid-filled lesions that can cause significant discomfort.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to athlete's foot. Walking barefoot in public areas such as pools and showers exposes the skin to fungi. Sharing shoes, socks, or towels increases the risk of transmission. Excessive sweating, tight footwear, and poor ventilation create an ideal environment for fungal growth. Medical conditions such as diabetes and immune system disorders can also make individuals more susceptible to infection and slow the healing process.

Prevention and treatment focus on maintaining proper foot hygiene and reducing moisture. Keeping the feet dry, wearing moisture-wicking socks, and choosing well ventilated shoes can help lower the risk. Antifungal medications are often effective, but recurring infections may require evaluation by a podiatrist. Professional care ensures proper identification of the infection type and effective treatment planning. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Lisfranc injuries affect the middle part of the foot, where the long bones connect with a group of small bones that help create a stable arch. Strong bands of tissue hold these bones together and keep the foot steady while walking and standing. A Lisfranc injury happens when these joints or supporting ligaments are damaged. The injury ranges from a stretched ligament to broken bones and joints that shift out of place. Because the damage occurs deep in the midfoot, it is sometimes mistaken for a simple sprain. A delayed diagnosis can lead to lasting pain and difficulty using the foot normally.

Such injuries often occur after a forceful twist of the foot or a direct blow. Falls, sports injuries, and motor vehicle accidents are frequent causes. Athletes who run, jump, or change direction quickly face a greater risk. Symptoms include pain in the middle of the foot, swelling, and bruising. Many patients struggle to put weight on the injured foot. Pain often becomes worse while walking or when pushing off the foot. The middle of the foot can also feel unstable. A podiatrist can examine the injured foot and check for tenderness, swelling, and changes in alignment. Weight-bearing X-rays usually provide important information. Advanced imaging, like CT or MRI scans, gives a clearer view when the injury is difficult to confirm.

A podiatrist determines whether the bones remain in their proper position or have shifted. Stable injuries sometimes heal without surgery. More serious Lisfranc injuries may require surgery to restore normal alignment. Prompt diagnosis and proper treatment help reduce the risk of long-term problems, including painful arthritis in the injured joints. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and determine when the foot is ready for increased activity. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns are areas of thickened skin that develop when the foot experiences repeated pressure or friction. They commonly appear on areas that receive extra stress, like the tops or sides of toes and other parts of the foot. The skin becomes thicker as the body tries to protect the area from irritation. Corns can cause discomfort while walking, wearing shoes, or completing daily activities. Symptoms include a hard area of skin, tenderness, pain, and sensitivity when pressure is placed on the affected area. Some patients develop corns because of changes in foot structure, toe alignment, or shoes that create excess pressure. A podiatrist can examine the foot to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

This foot doctor evaluates corns by examining the affected skin, reviewing symptoms, and assessing how the foot moves. The evaluation includes checking toe alignment, foot structure, walking patterns, and footwear choices. Understanding these factors helps identify why pressure is developing in certain areas of the foot. A podiatrist creates a treatment plan focused on reducing discomfort and improving foot function. Treatment includes professional care to remove thickened skin safely, address contributing factors, and support healthier movement. A podiatrist also evaluates footwear because shoes that lack proper support or fit poorly can increase pressure and friction on the toes.

Research shows that corns can affect comfort and mobility, making proper evaluation important for patients experiencing ongoing foot concerns. A podiatrist helps identify the cause of corns and develops a plan based on each patient’s foot structure and symptoms. Professional treatment can improve comfort and support better movement during daily activities. Addressing the factors that contribute to corn formation can help maintain healthier skin and improve overall foot health. Treatment plans are personalized according to examination findings and each patient’s needs. If you have developed corns, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe is a common injury that can make walking, standing, and other daily activities uncomfortable. It often results from stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object on the foot, or experiencing a sports-related injury. A fracture may involve a small crack in the bone or a more serious break that affects the toe's alignment. Because the toes help provide balance and support with every step, even a minor fracture can interfere with normal movement. Some broken toes heal without complications, while others require closer medical attention to prevent long-term problems. A professional evaluation is important to determine the type of fracture and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis may also help protect foot function and support proper healing.

Symptoms of a broken toe usually appear soon after the injury. Many people experience pain, swelling, or bruising around the affected toe. Others notice tenderness or difficulty putting weight on the front of the foot. In some cases, the toe may appear crooked or sit in an unusual position if the bones have shifted. Walking may become more difficult because of discomfort and reduced flexibility. Since sprains and fractures can cause similar symptoms, imaging studies may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Prompt treatment can help reduce complications and support a smoother recovery.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating broken toes and other foot injuries. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates the injured toe, reviews the symptoms, and determines the extent of the fracture before creating an individualized treatment plan. Treatment focuses on restoring proper alignment when needed, protecting the injured area, and supporting healthy healing. Ongoing podiatry care may also help improve foot function and reduce the risk of long-term complications. If you are experiencing toe pain, swelling, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.