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Toe pain ranges from a mild irritation to severe discomfort that makes it difficult to put pressure on the foot. The toes contain bones, joints, and muscles, along with tendons and ligaments that support movement. Nerves and blood vessels also pass through the toes. Problems affecting any of these structures can cause pain. Symptoms can develop suddenly after an injury or appear gradually. Toe pain also occurs with burning, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation. Swelling or stiffness can make walking and other daily activities more difficult.

Many conditions can lead to toe pain. Bunions cause pain around the big-toe joint, while arthritis makes toe joints sore and stiff. Corns and calluses also create painful pressure. Other causes include an ingrown toenail, a broken toe, or a sprain. Hammertoe develops when a toe stays in a bent position and can become painful when it rubs against a shoe. Nerve problems may produce burning or numbness. Persistent pain with redness, warmth, or swelling deserves prompt attention because these signs can be linked to infection or another condition.

A podiatrist examines the toes and foot to identify the source of pain. The evaluation includes checking joint movement, skin changes, and areas of tenderness. A podiatrist also determines whether foot structure or pressure from shoes is contributing to symptoms. Treatment options depend on the cause and include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, or a brace. If you have symptoms of toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

A high ankle sprain can be frustrating because the pain may feel different from a typical ankle injury. This condition affects the ligaments above the ankle that hold the tibia and fibula together. These strong bands of tissue help stabilize the lower leg when you walk, run, or turn. A high ankle sprain may cause pain above the ankle, swelling, and trouble bearing weight. Some people also notice discomfort that becomes worse when the foot is rotated.

The injury often occurs when the ankle is twisted or rotated suddenly. For example, the foot may turn outward while the leg continues moving forward. This can stretch or tear the ligaments between the lower leg bones. High ankle sprains are common in activities involving quick turns or physical contact. 

Previous ankle injuries can increase risk. Weak ankle stability may also make another injury more likely.

High and low ankle sprains are not the same. A low sprain usually involves ligaments along the outside of the ankle and may cause pain around the ankle bone. A high sprain affects the area above the joint and can make walking especially uncomfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate the location of pain and assess ankle stability. Depending on the injury, treatment may include rest, bracing, or protected weight-bearing. Imaging may be used to check for ligament damage or a fracture. Severe cases may require surgery.

Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and how well the ankle is protected while healing. Following podiatric instructions can help reduce stress on the injured ligaments and lower the chance of reinjury. If you have sustained a high ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

Sever’s disease is a painful heel condition that affects growing children and teenagers. It develops when repeated stress irritates the growth plate at the back of the heel. A growth plate is an area of developing tissue near the end of a bone. During a growth spurt, the heel bone can grow faster than nearby muscles and tendons. This can create tension where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. Children who participate in running or jumping activities can place repeated pressure on this area, making irritation and pain more likely.

Heel pain is the main symptom of Sever’s disease. The pain can affect one heel or both heels and can become worse with physical activity. The heel can also feel tender when squeezed. Some children develop swelling or redness around the painful area. They can begin limping or walking on their toes to avoid pressure on the heel. Sports that involve frequent running and jumping can increase the risk. Tight calf muscles and a tight Achilles tendon can also place more stress on the heel. Sever’s disease does not cause permanent damage to the growth plate.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain and determine whether Sever’s disease is responsible for the symptoms. The examination can include checking the heel for tenderness and assessing how the foot and ankle move. A podiatrist can also evaluate walking patterns and foot structure to identify factors that place extra stress on the heel. Treatment focuses on reducing irritation and protecting the growth plate while it heals. A podiatrist can recommend activity changes, supportive devices, or appropriate stretches based on the child’s condition. Care can help relieve pain and support a safe return to normal activities. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective relief tips for Sever's disease. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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.

Haglund’s deformity is a bony enlargement at the upper back of the heel. The bump forms near the point where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. It can rub against the back of a shoe and cause pain, redness, and swelling behind the heel. The area may feel tender, and a bump can develop. Pain can be noticeable when wearing shoes with firm heel counters. Some patients also have discomfort when they begin walking after resting. The condition can affect one heel or both heels.

The cause of Haglund’s deformity is not always clear. A tight Achilles tendon, high arches, and an inherited heel shape can raise the risk. Pressure from wearing stiff or poorly fitting shoes can worsen irritation. The nearby fluid-filled sac, called a bursa, can become inflamed. This sac cushions the heel bone and Achilles tendon. When it becomes irritated, swelling and pain can increase. A podiatrist examines the heel, checks the patient’s foot structure, and asks when the pain occurs. X-rays can show the heel bone and the size of the bump. Other imaging can help assess the Achilles tendon or surrounding tissue when the cause remains unclear.

Treatment focuses on reducing pressure, easing inflammation, and protecting the back of the heel. The podiatrist can recommend shoes with a softer heel area or room around the bump. Custom orthotics or heel lifts can improve foot position and reduce strain on the Achilles tendon. Padding may limit shoe rubbing. A temporary walking boot can protect the area when pain is severe. The podiatrist can also monitor the tendon and adjust treatment based on the patient’s progress. When these measures do not provide enough relief, surgery may be considered to remove the excess bone and address damaged tissue. If you have symptoms of Haglund's deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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