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A tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bony prominence that forms on the outside of the foot at the base of the little toe. This condition occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone shifts outward while the little toe moves inward, creating a painful bump. It is often caused by inherited foot structure, poor footwear choices, or abnormal foot mechanics. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and discomfort when wearing shoes. Tailor's bunions can interfere with daily activities and limit footwear options. Treatment usually involves wearing wider shoes, and using padding or orthotics for support. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If you have a tailor’s bunion, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips that can ease discomfort.

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.

As people age, their feet often lose strength and mobility, which can affect balance and increase the risk of falls. Stiff joints, weaker foot muscles, and reduced ankle flexibility can make walking less stable, especially on uneven surfaces. A podiatrist may recommend exercises that focus on improving the function of the feet, toes, and ankles. Strengthening the small muscles in the feet and increasing ankle mobility can enhance balance and coordination. Exercises such as calf raises, toe lifts, and towel curls can help improve the ability of the feet to respond to sudden shifts in weight. Controlled movement in the ankles also helps with walking and changing direction safely. By improving how the foot and ankle work together, these exercises support better posture and movement. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and recommend an exercise plan to help prevent falls by addressing weakness, joint stiffness, or other underlying conditions. If you have balance issues that put you at risk for falls, or have injured your feet from falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer helpful guidance.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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.

Chronic plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially in active individuals. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or strain. Common causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, high-impact activities, or an abnormal gait. Symptoms typically include sharp or stabbing pain in the heel, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged rest. The pain may subside during the day but can return after standing or walking for long periods. A podiatrist can diagnose chronic plantar fasciitis through physical exams and imaging tests. Treatment options include custom orthotics to support the arch, targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot, and anti-inflammatory medication. In more severe cases, injections or even surgery may be necessary. If you are dealing with painful plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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.

Flexibility and strength in the feet are essential for ballet dancers to achieve graceful movements and prevent injuries. Toe tapping is a simple yet effective exercise where dancers gently tap their toes on the floor to warm up the foot muscles and improve control. Resistance band exercises helping to build foot and ankle strength, while enhancing flexibility. Foot circles, performed by extending the leg and slowly rotating the foot in each direction, promote better range of motion and joint stability. Additionally, ankle rolls are another key stretch that involves gently rolling the ankles to loosen up the joints and prepare them for demanding routines. If you have incurred a foot or ankle injury during ballet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for appropriate treatment and suggestions about additional effective foot stretches.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Jeffrey Parrett, DPM from Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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.

Corns are thickened areas of skin that form due to constant friction or pressure, often from  wearing tight shoes or abnormal foot structure. The two main types are hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns typically develop on the top or tip of the toes and contain a dense core of dead skin that can cause pain while walking. Soft corns, also called interdigital corns, usually form between the toes, especially the fourth and fifth toes, where moisture keeps them pliable but still painful. Corns differ from calluses in that calluses are larger, flatter, and tend to form on weight-bearing areas such as the balls of the feet. A podiatrist can assess the cause of corns and provide safe treatment by trimming thickened skin, removing the core, or recommending surgery, if necessary. Recurrent or painful corns may indicate underlying foot deformities that can be addressed by a podiatrist. If you have a painful corn on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for safe and sterile treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are physically active. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress during periods of rapid bone development. The condition often affects children involved in running or jumping activities, as the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons can stretch. Symptoms include heel pain during or after activity, tenderness, and difficulty walking or running. Pain may worsen with pressure on the back of the heel. Risk factors include participation in sports, poor footwear, tight calf muscles, and a recent growth spurt. If your active child has heel pain, it may be Sever’s disease, and it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer relief tips for this condition.

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 care needs.

Gait problems in children often begin with noticeable issues in the feet, toes, or ankles. These may include in-toeing or out-toeing. In-toeing happens when the feet point inward while walking and is often seen in younger children. It may be caused by a curved shape of the foot or the way the leg bones twist inward. Out-toeing, when the feet point outward, is more common in older children and may be due to outward twisting of the leg bones. Some children may also appear flatfooted, meaning the arches of the feet are low or missing, although the foot usually stays flexible. A podiatrist can examine how your child stands and walks to see if their walking pattern falls within normal growth changes. Many children outgrow these issues, but a podiatrist can track their progress to determine if treatment is needed. In rare cases, surgery may be recommended if the gait problem is severe and affects movement. If your child exhibits an unusual or abnormal gait, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and  appropriate treatment.

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 care needs.

The feet play a vital role in athletic performance by providing shock absorption, stability, and propulsion. They absorb impact forces during activities such as running and jumping, reducing stress on the joints and muscles. Proper foot alignment enhances stability, allowing athletes to maintain balance and control movement efficiently. The way the feet strike the ground affects energy transfer and can influence speed and endurance. A strong push-off from the toes generates power for sprinting, jumping, and sudden changes in direction. Foot mechanics also determine how effectively an athlete can pivot and accelerate. Strengthening the muscles of the feet and wearing appropriate footwear can enhance performance and reduce injury risk. If you participate in sporting activities and have injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and offer effective injury prevention methods.

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.