September 2023

Selecting the right pair of running shoes is an important decision for both seasoned runners and beginners. The perfect running shoes provide not only comfort but also reduce the risk of injuries. To find the best fit, it is helpful to know your foot type. They can be flat, or have a normal or high arch. Knowing this helps determine the right level of arch support you need. It is beneficial to consider what terrain you'll be running on. Different types of running shoes are designed for road running, trail running, or a mix of both. It is also helpful to assess your gait, whether you overpronate, which is rolling inward, or supinate, which is rolling outward. Always try on running shoes in the late afternoon or evening when your feet tend to be slightly larger. Ensure there is a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the shoe's end. Walk or jog in the store to gauge comfort and fit. Lastly, don't compromise on quality or comfort for style, and it is important to prioritize function above all else. By taking these factors into account, you can confidently choose the best running shoes that suit your unique needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable running experience. If you would like additional information about how to choose running shoes that are best for you, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our office located in Waxahachie, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a prevalent heel condition that mainly affects children and adolescents during their growth spurts. Contrary to its name, it's not an actual disease, but rather an overuse injury characterized by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone, or calcaneus. Sever's disease generally strikes during the pre-teen and teenage years when the heel bone is still developing. The rapid growth of bones and muscles can lead to tension and stress on the heel's growth plate, resulting in pain and discomfort. This pain is typically experienced in the back of the heel, especially during activities such as running, jumping, or walking. Sever's disease is more common in active youngsters, particularly those involved in sports with repetitive impact on the heel. While it can be painful and frustrating, it is generally a self-limiting condition that tends to resolve once the growth plate fully matures. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat 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 and ankle injuries.

Children’s foot posture refers to the positioning and alignment of the feet when a child is standing, walking, or engaged in other weight bearing activities. It is an essential aspect of overall lower limb and musculoskeletal health and can affect walking patterns, such as pigeon toes, tiptoeing, and out turned feet. Foot posture is typically described in terms of three main categories. The first one is normal foot posture, in which the foot maintains a neutral alignment. Second is flat feet, and the entire sole lies flat on the ground. Finally, high arched feet exists when an individual has abnormally high arches. Children’s foot posture develops from birth to eight years of age. If sensory systems in a child’s brain provide incorrect or unclear information, there can be inefficient muscle patterns and delayed gross motor skill development. For children with joint hypermobility, where joints are overly flexible due to elastic ligaments, the brain compensates using muscles to stabilize the joints. This imbalance in muscle strength can lead to alignment issues, muscle fatigue, and posture control problems. To understand the mechanics of your child’s foot development, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your child’s feet and address any emerging issues.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Neuropathy is a nerve-related condition causing tingling, numbness, and pain, and can greatly diminish the quality of life. In the realm of medical advancements, laser treatment emerges as a ray of hope for those grappling with neuropathic discomfort. Laser treatment for neuropathy involves the application of specific wavelengths of light to targeted areas. These photons penetrate the skin, stimulating cellular activity, and promoting circulation. This process prompts the release of endorphins, natural pain relievers that provide relief from neuropathic symptoms. By fostering cellular repair and reducing inflammation, laser treatment can aid in restoring nerve function and minimizing discomfort. This approach is non-invasive and offers a promising alternative to traditional therapies. If you are experiencing neuropathy that affects the feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you consider if laser treatment is the right approach for you.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

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.