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Achilles tendonitis occurs when the thick tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone becomes inflamed from overuse or strain. This tendon plays a key role in walking, running, and pushing off the toes, which makes it vulnerable to injury from repetitive motion or sudden increases in activity. Common causes of Achilles tendonitis include running on hard surfaces, training without proper warm-up, and wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Flat feet, bone spurs on the heel, and certain health conditions can increase the risk of Achilles tendon irritation. Symptoms include pain or stiffness in the back of the ankle, swelling, warmth, and difficulty standing on the toes. Morning stiffness is especially common. If left untreated, inflammation may progress to tendinosis, where the tendon begins to degenerate. In severe cases, a rupture may occur and require surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures in the feet are hairline cracks in the bone that often develop from repetitive force, rather than a single traumatic event. Stress fractures generally occur in the long bones of the foot, which endure significant impact during walking, running, and jumping. Overtraining, sudden increases in activity, or inadequate rest between workouts raise the risk. Foot structure also plays a role, with flat feet, high arches, or rigid arches contributing to uneven distribution of pressure that can stress certain bones. People with osteoporosis or low bone density are at higher risk, and nutritional deficiencies, such as inadequate calcium or vitamin D, may weaken bone strength. A podiatrist can confirm a diagnosis through examination and imaging, recommend appropriate footwear or orthotics, and advise whether surgery is required in severe cases. If you have symptoms of stress fractures in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Excess body weight places added stress on the feet, which can lead to discomfort and reduced mobility. Research shows that carrying higher fat mass is strongly linked to foot pain, while overall body weight can negatively affect how the foot functions during walking and standing. With obesity rates rising across the globe, problems such as plantar heel pain, tendon strain, and joint stress in the feet are becoming more common. This makes awareness and early intervention especially important. Podiatrists play a key role not only in treating foot pain but also in addressing its contributing factors. By working with patients and collaborating with other health professionals, podiatrists can help manage both the mechanical strain on the feet and the broader health issues connected to weight. If you are experiencing foot pain related to weight, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and care.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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.

Common reasons why a broken toe can occur may be from stubbing it against a piece of furniture, or if a heavy object drops on it. In severe fractures, the patient may hear the bone as it cracks, and this most likely indicates that it is a broken toe. Some of the symptoms that are associated with this condition can include swelling, bruising, and the toe may tingle and feel numb. Many broken toes are treated by using the buddy taping method. This consists of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This is helpful in providing the necessary support as the healing process begins. If you feel you may have a broken toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can perform a proper diagnosis and offer correct 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.