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Daily wear and tear can harm your toes, which are essential for balance and movement. Hammertoe is a toe problem where the middle joint bends upward, making the toe look like a hammer. Toes have muscles on top to stretch them and muscles underneath to bend them. Weak bottom muscles can lead to an upward bend at the middle joint, causing a hammertoe. This can hurt while walking and may affect balance. Symptoms include a bent toe that will not relax, swelling, corns, calluses, pain while walking, and changes in balance or walking style. Other toe issues like claw toes, mallet toes, and bunions exist, often alongside hammertoes. Risk factors include foot shape, medical conditions, like diabetes, arthritis, wrong shoes, and foot injuries. If you have a hammertoe that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Buschke-Ollendorff syndrome, or BOS, manifests with distinctive symptoms that can affect the feet. This rare condition combines skin and bone abnormalities and is characterized by skin lesions and bone spots on the feet. Skin lesions result from connective tissue irregularities and appear as spots, while bone spots are painless areas of heightened bone density, detectable through X-rays. Symptoms usually begin in childhood, and although the skin lesions may progress with age, they typically do not lead to additional health concerns. However, in rare instances, BOS can advance to melorheostosis, causing abnormal bone growth, potentially resulting in bone pain and deformities within the feet. Diagnosis hinges on clinical examination, imaging studies, and genetic testing. If you have foot pain of any type, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. 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.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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.
 

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential deformities. The feet can be affected, and this condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, which is the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation triggered by RA can lead to joint damage over time, impacting various joints symmetrically. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, typically most pronounced in the mornings or after periods of inactivity. The affected joints may feel warm to the touch, and over time, individuals with RA may experience reduced joint function and mobility. Beyond joints, RA can affect other organs, leading to fatigue, fever, and weight loss. If you have RA, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can implement effective management strategies so relief can be found. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

Foot arch pain is often due to prolonged pressure on the feet. Muscles and tendons that support the arches can become fatigued, leading to discomfort, especially for those with an active lifestyle. The most frequent cause of foot arch pain is plantar fasciitis, marked by damage to the thick band of tissue under the foot. It typically develops from altered foot biomechanics, bone spurs, and muscle tightness. Foot cramps, which affect 25 percent of individuals who are 60 and older, contribute to sudden, intense muscle spasms and arch pain. Tarsal tunnel syndrome, though less common, results from pressure on the tibial nerve, causing inner arch pain, pins and needles, and numbness. Plantar fibromatosis involves small nodules in the plantar fascia, causing a firm lump in the arch and pain with pressure. Posterior tibial tendonitis, often the result of overuse during high-impact activities, leads to pain on the bottom of the foot. Stress fractures, commonly caused by repetitive overloading during high-impact activities, result in sharp arch pain with localized bruising and swelling. Additionally, flat feet, where arches collapse, are linked to foot arch pain as well as knee and back pain. Custom orthotics can alleviate discomfort from foot arch pain. For a solution to foot arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns 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.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to 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 and ankle needs.

Flat feet, a condition where the arches of the feet are significantly reduced or absent, can cause discomfort and limit mobility for some individuals. While many cases of flat feet can be managed with conservative treatments like orthotics, exercises, and supportive footwear, there are situations where surgery becomes a viable option. Surgical intervention for flat feet typically aims to reconstruct and restore the arches of the feet, improving overall foot function and alleviating pain. This procedure is known as flatfoot reconstruction surgery. Podiatric surgeons may employ various techniques, such as tendon transfers, bone realignment, or the use of implants to achieve the desired results. Candidates for flatfoot surgery often include people who experience severe pain, difficulty in walking, or whose flat feet result from structural abnormalities. If you suspect you may need flatfoot surgery, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether this is a correct option for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Cuboid syndrome, a lesser-known but impactful foot ailment, develops in the lateral midfoot region. Situated on the outer side of the foot, the cuboid bone plays a pivotal role in maintaining the stability and functionality of the foot's arch. When this small, cube-shaped bone becomes dislocated or irritated, it gives rise to cuboid syndrome. The affected area often encompasses the lateral aspect of the foot, extending from the midfoot toward the outer edge. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and a decreased range of motion, affecting the smooth coordination of the foot during movement. Precise anatomical alignment is vital for the cuboid and its neighboring bones, and any disruption can lead to discomfort. If you have endured an injury and there is existing pain in the outer area of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Lateral foot pain can be the result of various conditions, each with distinct features and treatments. Ankle sprains, often caused by rolling the ankle, result in ligament tears, possibly leading to side foot pain, swelling, and instability. Cuboid syndrome may be noticed after an ankle sprain as the cuboid bone shifts out of position. This can cause ongoing foot pain, especially after activity. Peroneal tendonitis, due to repetitive stress, leads to lateral foot pain that worsens with activity. Stress fractures, often caused by repeated stress from sports or increased activity, result in progressive pain during physical activity, localized swelling, and tenderness. Diagnosis relies on bone scans or MRIs, and surgery may be needed in severe cases. Bunions, caused by genetics, wearing tight shoes, flat feet, or arthritis, may lead to symptoms like a rotated big toe, pain, and deformity. Corns and calluses, characterized by thick, raised skin areas, often occur due to excessive friction from tight shoes, foot deformities, or aging. Posterior tibial tendonitis is associated with flat feet, and results from irritation and inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon. This causes pain on the inner side of the ankle and foot during activity. For help with any of the above conditions, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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.

Dancers face unique challenges when it comes to choosing the right footwear. Their preference for wearing tight-fitting dance shoes often leads them towards ill-fitting street shoes, which can further strain their feet. To protect their feet, it is important to allow toes to spread naturally and provide proper arch support through suitable footwear. Dancers often transition from demi-pointe to high heels, which can increase stress on the balls of their feet and shorten their Achilles tendons. This practice raises the risk of developing conditions such as bunions, metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis, and Achilles tendonitis. To mitigate these issues, it is helpful for dancers to opt for supportive footwear such as walking or running sneakers with firm heel counters and outsoles. Custom orthotics can further enhance comfort and address problems like plantar fasciitis and neuromas. For indoor use, slip-on clogs or sneakers with orthotics can be worn. If you are a dancer and would like more information on how wearing custom orthotics may benefit you, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to further discuss this.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.