December 2023

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.

In the hustle and bustle of the workday, it is easy to overlook the importance of foot health. Neglecting your feet can lead to discomfort and long-term issues. Begin by selecting proper footwear that provides ample support and a comfortable fit. Ensure your shoes are appropriate for your specific work environment, offering protection against potential hazards. Take breaks to stretch and move, promoting healthy blood circulation and preventing stiffness. Elevating your feet during breaks can also alleviate pressure. Maintain a clean and organized workspace to minimize the risk of tripping or falling. For employees who use ladders, it is beneficial to ensure the ladder stands securely on the ground. If your job involves prolonged periods of standing or walking, invest in anti-fatigue mats to cushion your feet. Regularly inspect your feet for any signs of discomfort, blisters, or swelling. Addressing issues promptly can prevent more serious complications. If you would like additional information about foot protection during the work day, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

Sesamoid bones are tiny bones that are found near joints within muscles or tendons. They act like pulleys to reduce stress on these muscle-tendon areas. Unlike regular bones that connect at joints, sesamoid bones connect to muscles using tendons. The word sesamoid comes from the Arabic word sesamum, which means sesame, because they are small like sesame seeds. These bones are often in the foot, hand, and wrist. Sesamoid bones usually develop due to extra strain on muscles and tendons. Their main job is to ease tension in muscles and tendons, making them better at carrying weight and more resilient by distributing it evenly. This helps protect these various parts of the body from getting too strained or injured. Even though they are small, sesamoid bones are vital in how our bodies work. If you have pain in your feet corresponding to the location of these bones, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

A bunion, a common foot deformity, is characterized by the gradual misalignment of the big toe joint, causing a bony protrusion on the side of the foot. This condition develops when the big toe consistently pushes against the next toe, gradually altering the joint's structure. Wearing ill-fitting footwear, particularly tight shoes or high heels, is a primary culprit, as they force the toes into unnatural positions. Genetic factors also play a role, with some individuals inheriting a predisposition to bunions. Foot mechanics, such as overpronation or flat feet, contribute to the misalignment, increasing the risk. Arthritis, particularly inflammatory types, may exacerbate bunion formation. Additionally, trauma or injury to the foot can accelerate the development of bunions. Recognizing the multifaceted causes of bunions is important for preventive measures. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief techniques.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.