Blog

Causes of Foot Arch Pain

Foot arch pain is discomfort that develops in the curved middle part of the foot and can interfere with walking and daily activities. Common causes include plantar fasciitis, foot cramps from overuse or dehydration, and tarsal tunnel syndrome which compresses nerves in the ankle. Symptoms may include aching, burning, or sharp pain that worsens with standing or activity. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, obesity, and wearing improper footwear. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the exact cause, providing custom orthotics, offering treatment options, and guiding exercises to strengthen the foot. If you have persistent foot arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain

Common Reasons for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain and discomfort. The big toe is most commonly affected, and risk factors include improper trimming of the toenails, especially when nails are cut too short or rounded at the edges.  Wearing tight shoes that crowd the toes or frequent use of flip-flops, which allow too much motion and pressure, may also contribute. People with naturally curved or thickened toenails, as well as those with toe deformities or excessive foot sweating, are more prone to this problem. Ingrown toenails may lead to swelling, redness, infection, and difficulty walking, if not addressed promptly. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition, provide treatment to relieve pain, and, in advanced cases may perform surgery to correct the nail growth pattern. If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails

What Are Causes of Swollen Feet and Ankles?

Swollen feet and ankles can arise from many different causes. An injury such as a sprain or fracture often leads to swelling, as the body responds with inflammation. Infections in the skin or soft tissue can also trigger painful swelling. Standing or sitting for long periods of time may cause fluid to pool in the lower limbs, while consuming foods high in salt can lead to water retention and discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, provide treatment, and recommend lifestyle changes or therapies to reduce swelling and prevent complications. If you are experiencing swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips for this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Managing Fungal Nail Infections

Fungal infections of the toenails often begin subtly, with slight color changes or surface irregularities, but can progress to thick, brittle, and uncomfortable nails. Because the infection develops beneath the nail plate, it can be challenging to clear without targeted intervention. A podiatrist may suggest medicated creams, prescription tablets, or procedures to reduce nail thickness so treatment can reach the source more effectively. In persistent cases, advanced methods such as laser therapy may be used to disrupt fungal growth. Maintaining clean, dry feet and choosing footwear that allows airflow are important steps in lowering the risk of recurrence. Addressing the problem early improves the chance of restoring healthy nails and preventing further spread. If you observe ongoing changes in your toenails or suspect an infection, it is suggested you arrange an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

Read more about Toenail Fungus

Ankle Fracture? Don’t Wait for Treatment

If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process. 

Protecting Your Feet From Workplace Injuries

Workplace foot injuries can occur in various environments and often result from hazards such as burns, electric shocks, sprained or twisted ankles, and broken bones. Prevention begins with wearing proper footwear that offers support, protection, and slip resistance. Employers should maintain safe working conditions by keeping floors dry, free of debris, and clearly marked. Additionally, safety training can also reduce accidents. If a foot injury occurs, a podiatrist can provide expert diagnosis and care to promote healing, reduce pain, and prevent long-term damage. If you have sustained a foot injury at work, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide treatment and guide you on additional foot protection safety tips for the work environment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

Read more about Working on Your Feet

Recognizing the Symptoms of Flat Feet and Finding Relief

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly, leading to discomfort and mobility issues. Symptoms include arch pain, ankle swelling, stiffness, and aching in the calf muscles after standing or walking for long periods. Causes can include genetics, obesity, pregnancy, or injury that weakens the supporting structures of the foot. A podiatrist can assess the severity of flat feet, provide custom orthotics, recommend supportive footwear, and offer exercises to reduce pain and improve function. Ignoring symptoms can lead to long-term joint strain and difficulty walking. If you have painful flat feet, it is suggested that you seek treatment from a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Read more about Flat Feet

When Ingrown Toenail Surgery Is Needed

Ingrown toenails can be painful and may require surgery if they repeatedly grow into the skin or lead to infection. Ingrown toenail surgery is often considered when conservative care fails or if the nail causes swelling, drainage, or difficulty walking. During this procedure, a podiatrist may remove part or all of the nail, and, in some cases, also treat the nail bed to help prevent the problem from returning. The surgery may also involve removing built-up tissue surrounding the nail or draining infected fluid. To reduce the chance of future issues, the remaining nail edge is shaped to avoid pressing into the surrounding skin. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and the foot must be kept clean afterward to support healing and lower the risk of infection. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition of the toe and determine whether surgery is the best choice for relief. If you have a problem ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

  • Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
  • Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
  • Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

  • Bunionectomy for painful bunions
  • Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
  • Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Read more about Foot Surgery

Causes of Foot Pain and When to Seek Help

Foot pain can affect daily comfort and mobility, often stemming from various conditions that require professional care. Common causes include tinea pedis, a fungal infection that causes itching and redness, bunions, which are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, plantar warts, caused by a virus that leads to painful growths, and flat feet, which may result in strain and imbalance during walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat these issues with tailored solutions, including medications, orthotics, or minor procedures. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist today to identify the source and begin effective treatment that supports lasting relief and healthy movement.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain

Blisters and Corns Are Small Issues That Cause Big Discomfort

Blisters, corns, and calluses may seem minor, but they can cause significant foot discomfort. Blisters are fluid-filled pockets caused by friction, often from wearing tight shoes or taking long walks. Corns are small, hardened areas typically found on toes, while calluses are thicker patches of skin on the soles, both caused by repeated pressure or rubbing. These conditions may look like raised, thickened, or rough skin and can feel tender, painful, or irritated, especially when walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can treat them by gently removing thickened skin, draining blisters when necessary, and recommending proper footwear or orthotics to prevent recurrence. While these issues are common, people with diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk for complications, as minor skin problems can quickly lead to serious infections. If you have any of these conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Read more about Blisters
scroll to top