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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.

Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection that affects the toenails, often causing thickening, discoloration, crumbling, or changes in nail shape. While anyone can develop this condition, some individuals are more likely to experience it because of underlying health concerns or environmental exposure. Reduced circulation, diabetes, repeated nail trauma, and increasing age may make the nails more vulnerable to infection. People who frequently wear tight shoes, have excessive foot perspiration, or spend time in shared damp spaces such as locker rooms may also face a greater chance of developing fungal nail problems. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal skin infection affecting the feet, can sometimes spread into the nails, if left untreated. A podiatrist can confirm whether nail changes are caused by fungus or another condition, and recommend proper treatment. If your toenails become thickened, brittle, or discolored, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Ankle pain can make it difficult to stay active and perform everyday tasks. The ankle is a complex joint made of bones, ligaments, and cartilage that work together to provide support and movement. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, while tendons connect muscles to bones. Pain can develop after an injury or from repeated stress placed on the joint. Arthritis, tendon injuries, and ligament damage also can lead to ankle pain. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can place extra strain on the ankle and surrounding tissues. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness. Some patients also notice bruising, weakness, or difficulty while walking. In more serious cases, the ankle can feel unstable or give way during activity.

A podiatrist begins by learning when the pain started and how it affects daily activities. The examination includes checking the ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also watches how the patient stands and walks to identify problems with balance or movement. Imaging tests, like X-rays, an ultrasound, or MRI scans, help identify broken bones, torn ligaments, or tendon injuries. Finding the exact cause of ankle pain is important because different conditions require different types of treatment. An accurate diagnosis also helps prevent the problem from becoming more severe and supports a safer return to normal activities.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ankle pain. A podiatrist creates a care plan that improves movement while reducing stress on the injured joint. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and provide better support. It also includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve stability. Patients with severe ligament tears, advanced arthritis, or complex fractures may require surgery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a  diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Trench foot, also known as immersion foot, is a non-freezing cold injury that develops when the feet are exposed to wet and cold conditions for an extended period of time. This condition gained recognition during wartime, but remains relevant today in outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals exposed to damp environments. Prolonged moisture weakens the skin barrier and disrupts circulation, leading to tissue damage. Unlike frostbite, trench foot can occur in temperatures above freezing, making awareness essential for prevention and early care. Understanding this condition supports better foot health and reduces the risk of long term complications.

The symptoms of trench foot often begin with tingling, itching, or a burning sensation in the feet. As the condition progresses, the skin may appear pale, wrinkled, or waterlogged. Swelling and pain can develop, along with redness, once circulation begins to return. In more advanced stages, blisters, open sores, and skin breakdown may occur, increasing the risk of infection. Some individuals also experience numbness or heaviness in the affected area. Recognizing these symptoms early is important to prevent further damage and support proper recovery.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing trench foot. Prolonged exposure to wet socks, damp shoes, or standing water is the primary cause. Cold weather conditions combined with poor foot hygiene further contribute to the risk. Wearing tight footwear that restricts circulation can worsen the condition, as can limited mobility or prolonged standing. Individuals with poor circulation or underlying health conditions may be more vulnerable. Understanding these risk factors helps guide preventive strategies and supports overall foot care in challenging environments.

The main cause of trench foot is sustained exposure to moisture and cold, which leads to constricted blood vessels and reduced oxygen supply to the tissues. This combination damages the skin and underlying structures over time. Preventive care includes keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and wearing properly fitted water resistant footwear. Early intervention is essential to avoid complications such as infection or tissue damage. If you have symptoms of trench foot, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.