Blog

Diabetic neuropathy affects the nerves in the feet, toes, and ankles due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. This nerve damage can cause numbness, tingling, burning pain, and muscle weakness, making walking more difficult. Since people with diabetic neuropathy may not feel injuries, even minor cuts or blisters can go unnoticed and lead to serious complications, including infections and foot ulcers. Poor circulation, another complication of diabetes, can slow the healing process and increase the risk of added problems. A podiatrist can assess nerve function, monitor for foot deformities, and recommend appropriate footwear to prevent pressure sores. Regular checkups with this type of doctor can help by detecting issues early, reducing the risk of complications that may require wound care or surgery. A podiatrist may also provide guidance on managing calluses, toenail problems, and dry skin to prevent infections. If you struggle with the effects of diabetic neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for regular checkups and appropriate care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then 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.

Plantar fasciitis is a major cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, undergoes degeneration at its attachment on the heel. This often leads to sharp pain near the heel, especially when standing up after rest. Plantar fasciitis is linked to excessive foot pronation, high or low arches and prolonged standing. Other factors include running, wearing improper footwear, and being overweight, along with tight calf muscles and a stiff Achilles tendon. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, gait mechanics, and risk factors to determine the best course of treatment. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and stretching exercises may help reduce strain on the plantar fascia. If symptoms persist, a podiatrist may suggest corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation or night splints to keep the fascia stretched. Surgery is considered when pain does not improve with other treatments. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM  from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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 and ankle needs.

Walking barefoot on the beach feels refreshing, but it can take a toll on your feet in ways you might not expect. Known as beach feet, this condition refers to the stress and strain caused by prolonged barefoot walking on sand. While sand provides a natural exfoliation, it also lacks support, forcing the foot muscles and tendons to work harder, which can lead to soreness, fatigue, and even arch pain. Hot sand can burn the soles, while tiny shell fragments and rough grains may cause cuts, blisters, or abrasions. Walking unevenly on soft sand can also contribute to instability, potentially aggravating conditions like plantar fasciitis or hammertoes. To protect your feet, wear supportive water shoes when needed, moisturize after exposure, and check for injuries. If pain or discomfort persists, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help prevent further issues.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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.

Heel pain in one foot can result from several conditions that affect the structures supporting the foot. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause, occurring when the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. Achilles tendinitis can also lead to pain, particularly at the back of the heel, as a result of repetitive stress on the tendon. A heel spur, which is a bony growth on the heel bone, may develop from prolonged tension and pressure. Nerve compression, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, can cause sharp or tingling sensations in one heel. Wearing unsupportive footwear or standing for extended periods can also contribute to discomfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inside of the ankle, becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through a narrow passageway called the tarsal tunnel. This compression can result from various causes, including injury, inflammation, or structural abnormalities like flat feet. Symptoms often include pain, tingling, burning sensations, or numbness in the foot and ankle, which may worsen with activity. Diagnosing tarsal tunnel syndrome typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and tests such as nerve conduction studies or imaging to evaluate nerve function and detect any underlying issues. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide timely treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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 and ankle needs.

Pain on top of the foot is often caused by extensor tendonitis, which occurs when the tendons that lift the toes become irritated or inflamed. Extensor tendonitis frequently develops from wearing tight shoes, excessive pressure, or biomechanical factors like high or flat arches. People who engage in repetitive activities like running, walking on uneven terrain, or standing for long periods of time may be more susceptible to experiencing pain on top of the foot. Symptoms typically include pain that worsens with movement, tenderness when pressing on the top of the foot, swelling, and occasional bruising. Some individuals may notice discomfort when wearing shoes, especially if laces are too tight. A podiatrist can assess the cause of the pain, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest orthotics to reduce strain on the tendons. In some cases, additional treatments, including anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections may be needed. If these methods do not bring relief, surgery may be considered to relieve pain and restore mobility. If you have pain on top of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

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.

Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures, including those in the feet, toes, and ankles. A stress fracture in the foot, especially one that occurs with minimal impact or no clear cause, may be an early warning sign of this condition. Since osteoporosis, more common among women, reduces bone density, routine activities like walking or standing for long periods can lead to small, repetitive injuries that result in foot fractures. Women with this condition are particularly vulnerable to stress fractures in the metatarsals, which are the long bones in the foot that bear weight. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include immobilization, supportive footwear, or surgery in severe cases. Identifying osteoporosis-related fractures early can help prevent further complications and support long-term foot health. If you have incurred a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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 and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often starting between the toes. It is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments. The infection leads to symptoms such as itching, redness, peeling, and sometimes blisters. Athlete's foot is extremely contagious and can spread in public places like gyms, swimming pool areas, and locker rooms. To prevent athlete's foot, it is important to maintain proper foot hygiene by keeping the feet clean and dry. Wearing moisture-wicking socks made of materials like cotton or wool can help reduce sweat build-up, which is a breeding ground for the fungus. Additionally, it is essential to wear well-ventilated shoes that allow the feet to breathe. Using antifungal powders or sprays can further protect against infection, especially for those who frequent public spaces. Regularly changing socks and avoiding walking barefoot in communal areas are also effective prevention measures. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can effectively treat athlete’s foot, often with 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.

Diagnosing a foot stress fracture requires a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist to identify the source of pain. Patients are typically asked about their medical history, including any past fractures, current medications, and daily activities that may contribute to repetitive stress on the feet, toes, or ankles. A podiatrist will perform a physical examination, applying gentle pressure to the affected area to check for tenderness or localized pain. If a foot stress fracture is suspected, diagnostic imaging is often necessary. X-rays may be taken first, but foot stress fractures can sometimes be challenging to detect immediately after injury and may only become visible once healing begins. In such cases, advanced imaging like MRI scans, ultrasound, or bone scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess surrounding soft tissues. These methods allow a podiatrist to pinpoint the site of the fracture. If you believe you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.