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Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly, leading to discomfort and mobility issues. Symptoms include arch pain, ankle swelling, stiffness, and aching in the calf muscles after standing or walking for long periods. Causes can include genetics, obesity, pregnancy, or injury that weakens the supporting structures of the foot. A podiatrist can assess the severity of flat feet, provide custom orthotics, recommend supportive footwear, and offer exercises to reduce pain and improve function. Ignoring symptoms can lead to long-term joint strain and difficulty walking. If you have painful flat feet, it is suggested that you seek treatment from a podiatrist.

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 care needs.

Ingrown toenails can be painful and may require surgery if they repeatedly grow into the skin or lead to infection. Ingrown toenail surgery is often considered when conservative care fails or if the nail causes swelling, drainage, or difficulty walking. During this procedure, a podiatrist may remove part or all of the nail, and, in some cases, also treat the nail bed to help prevent the problem from returning. The surgery may also involve removing built-up tissue surrounding the nail or draining infected fluid. To reduce the chance of future issues, the remaining nail edge is shaped to avoid pressing into the surrounding skin. This procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and the foot must be kept clean afterward to support healing and lower the risk of infection. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition of the toe and determine whether surgery is the best choice for relief. If you have a problem ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

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 care needs.

Foot pain can affect daily comfort and mobility, often stemming from various conditions that require professional care. Common causes include tinea pedis, a fungal infection that causes itching and redness, bunions, which are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, plantar warts, caused by a virus that leads to painful growths, and flat feet, which may result in strain and imbalance during walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat these issues with tailored solutions, including medications, orthotics, or minor procedures. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist today to identify the source and begin effective treatment that supports lasting relief and healthy movement.

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.

Blisters, corns, and calluses may seem minor, but they can cause significant foot discomfort. Blisters are fluid-filled pockets caused by friction, often from wearing tight shoes or taking long walks. Corns are small, hardened areas typically found on toes, while calluses are thicker patches of skin on the soles, both caused by repeated pressure or rubbing. These conditions may look like raised, thickened, or rough skin and can feel tender, painful, or irritated, especially when walking or wearing shoes. A podiatrist can treat them by gently removing thickened skin, draining blisters when necessary, and recommending proper footwear or orthotics to prevent recurrence. While these issues are common, people with diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk for complications, as minor skin problems can quickly lead to serious infections. If you have any of these conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

A broken toe occurs when one of the small bones in the toe sustains a fracture, typically due to trauma or repetitive stress. Symptoms of a fractured  toe include pain, swelling, bruising, or redness, along with difficulty bearing weight or moving the toe. A visibly deformed or angled toe can suggest a more severe break. Diagnosis usually involves a physical exam and imaging, such as an X-ray, to confirm the fracture and assess alignment. In some cases, more detailed imaging like an MRI scan may be required to detect stress fractures or ligament injuries. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the break. Supportive measures include buddy taping, splinting, or the use of a hard-soled shoe or walking boot to stabilize the toe during healing. Surgery may be necessary for displaced fractures or joint damage, and can involve pins or wires to maintain alignment. If you injure a toe or think it may be broken, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. 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 Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to attack healthy joints, often affecting the feet and ankles. It leads to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and joint deformity. Causes include genetic and environmental factors that trigger an abnormal immune response. Risk factors include family history, smoking, and age. Symptoms in the feet may include swelling, tenderness, limited range of motion, and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can help manage foot-related symptoms through custom orthotics, supportive footwear, targeted exercises, and coordination with rheumatologists. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, stiffness, or swelling, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert care and solutions to maintain mobility and improve your quality of life.

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 and ankle issues are easy to overlook until they begin to interfere with daily life. Pain, swelling, numbness, or visible changes in the skin or nails are all reasons to seek care. A podiatrist specializes in identifying the cause behind these symptoms and creating a treatment plan that fits your needs. Whether it is recurring heel pain, a toenail that keeps growing inward, or a sore that will not heal, early attention can prevent more serious problems. Foot discomfort is not something to ignore or push through, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or poor circulation. Addressing minor issues before they become major ones can protect your mobility and overall well-being. If you are noticing any changes in how your feet feel or function, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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 a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

Wearing high heels may enhance posture and confidence, but they often come at the cost of foot health. Prolonged use can lead to metatarsalgia, a painful inflammation in the ball of the foot, as well as Achilles tendon pain due to constant strain. Tight or narrow high heels commonly cause blisters and pressure points that lead to further discomfort. A podiatrist can provide expert care through custom orthotics, stretching regimens, and preventive guidance tailored to your lifestyle. Early intervention can reduce long-term damage and restore comfort. If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort from your footwear, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to protect your feet and maintain your mobility for years to come.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.

Cracked heels in women are often caused by dry skin, prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, or walking barefoot on hard surfaces. Risk factors include obesity, aging, and medical conditions such as diabetes or eczema, which can worsen skin dryness. Symptoms include rough, flaky skin on the heel, deep fissures, pain, and sometimes bleeding or infection. A podiatrist can assess the severity, remove thickened skin safely, recommend moisturizing treatments, and suggest footwear modifications to prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing persistent cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for professional care and personalized advice to restore comfort and keep your feet healthy and strong.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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.