May 2024

Podiatrists play an indispensable role in the realm of diabetic limb salvage by addressing not only the immediate wound but also the underlying biomechanical issues of the foot and ankle. These foot and ankle specialists view the diabetic wound in the context of the entire lower limb's structure and function, which involves meticulous local wound care. Debridement and the use of advanced topical therapies and bioengineered tissues, coupled with strategies to offload pressure from the wound site are included. Offloading techniques might include total contact casts, custom braces, and healing shoes with custom inserts designed to redistribute pressure and prevent further injury. When conservative measures fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures like Achilles tendon lengthening or tendon transfers are performed to rebalance the foot, addressing deformities and reducing abnormal pressures that contribute to ulcers. In more severe cases, reconstructive surgery may be needed to stabilize the foot and prevent ongoing damage. Postoperative care is critical to ensure long-term success, with custom footwear and regular biomechanical monitoring playing key roles in preventing recurrence. If you are experiencing diabetic foot ulcers, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for holistic care that heals the wounds and maintains the overall health and function of your feet.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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.

Kohler disease, though rare, can cause distress for both you and your child. This bone disorder is characterized by pain and swelling in the foot, often resulting in a limp and pain during walking. While Kohler disease primarily affects boys aged three to seven, girls can also be affected. It is less frequent in girls, however, with typically only one foot being involved, which leads to a preference for walking on the side of the foot. The exact cause of Kohler disease is uncertain. Stress-related compression during critical growth periods and delayed bone formation are thought to be related to its development. The tissue destruction takes place in the navicular bone of the foot due to compromised blood flow, resulting in pain and discomfort. A podiatrist can order X-rays of the navicular bone to identify any such abnormalities. Treatment options include pain management and supportive measures, such as weight-bearing casts or special shoes. Fortunately, Kohler disease may resolve on its own within six months to two years. Even so, early intervention to alleviate discomfort and support natural healing is encouraged. If your child is limping, or otherwise exhibits symptoms that signal pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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 surgery is a treatment option for individuals who have not found relief from conservative measures and continue to experience severe and debilitating heel pain. The surgery typically involves releasing or removing a portion of the plantar fascia to alleviate tension and reduce inflammation. This procedure aims to provide long-term pain relief and restore normal foot function. Success rates of plantar fasciitis surgery vary depending on various factors, such as the patient's overall health, the severity of the condition, and the specific surgical technique used. While many patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality of life following surgery, it is essential to understand that success is not guaranteed, and there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. If you have this condition and are considering surgery, it is strongly suggested that you speak with your podiatrist who can guide you toward making an informed decision. 

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 and ankle needs.

Ankle injuries are an ongoing concern among surfers, especially those who continually push their limits in pursuit of perfect waves and daring tricks. From simple ligament strains to complex fractures, the spectrum of ankle injuries in surfing can lead to extended periods out of the water. To safeguard against ankle injuries, experts emphasize the importance of prioritizing ankle strength and stability. Enhancing proprioception, the body's spatial awareness is paramount for injury prevention. Balance exercises on unstable surfaces are often used to simulate conditions encountered while surfing. Plyometrics, which focuses on explosive movements and controlled landings, can aid in developing ankle resilience. Using resistance bands during ankle exercises can help strengthen key muscles involved in ankle stability. Incorporating dorsiflexion, internal rotation, and external rotation exercises can fortify ankle joints against the stresses of wave-riding and reduce vulnerability to injury. If you have injured your ankle while surfing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options. 

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.