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Foot deformities in babies are common and can vary widely in severity. Metatarsus adductus, clubfoot, calcaneovalgus, and congenital vertical talus are among the most frequently observed congenital foot deformities. Metatarsus adductus appears as a curved foot with toes angled inward, often resolving naturally as the child grows. Clubfoot is a more complex foot deformity where the foot points downward and inward, typically requiring casting or surgery. Calcaneovalgus, characterized by an upwardly bent foot, usually responds well to stretching exercises. Congenital vertical talus, a rare deformity with a rigid foot structure, in most cases requires surgical intervention. Early identification and appropriate management of congenital foot deformities are essential to prevent long-term complications. A podiatrist can provide a thorough assessment and recommend the most effective treatment plan for your baby. This may involve observation, stretching exercises, casting, or surgery. If your baby has a congenital foot deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition affecting children and adolescents, particularly those who are active in sports. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to excessive stress and strain. The primary symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and swelling, which often intensify with physical activity and may improve with rest. This condition typically affects children during periods of rapid growth, especially those involved in running or jumping sports. The repetitive pressure and tension on the heel can worsen the inflammation. Addressing Sever’s disease involves reducing activities that strain the heel and using supportive footwear to provide proper cushioning. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help your child to find relief from this uncomfortable 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 and ankle injuries.

A variety of underlying issues can cause heel pain, such as bone disorders, soft tissue problems, and systemic diseases. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. This occurs when the plantar fascia, the long band of fibrous tissue on the sole of the feet, gets damaged, torn, or inflamed. Other soft tissue disorders that may lead to heel pain include Achilles tendonitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and bursitis, which is an inflammation of the bursa sac that protects the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel. Bone issues that can cause heel pain include traumatic injuries or stress fractures of the heel bone, osteoporosis, and heel spurs, which are hardened calcium deposits that build up on the heel bone due to repeated stress. Certain systemic diseases that also result in heel pain include rheumatoid arthritis and peripheral neuropathy. If you have any type of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose its origin and treat your condition accordingly.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.

Using a treadmill can lead to various foot injuries due to repetitive stress and improper use. One common injury is plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain from inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Another frequent issue is metatarsalgia, characterized by pain in the ball of the foot, often caused by excessive impact or poor foot alignment. Achilles tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendon at the back of the ankle, can also occur from overuse or wearing improper footwear. Ankle sprains may result from sudden changes in direction or loss of balance. To prevent these injuries, ensure proper treadmill use with a suitable speed and incline, wear supportive and well-fitted shoes, and incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine. If you have sustained a foot injury from running on the treadmill, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat your foot condition and educate you on specific running injury prevention methods.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Parrett, DPM of Parrett Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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.

Diabetic foot is a term used to describe various complications that arise in the feet of individuals with diabetes. Due to prolonged high blood sugar levels, diabetic patients often experience nerve damage, neuropathy, and poor circulation. This can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, making injuries and infections more likely and harder to detect and heal. Common issues include ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, gangrene, which can necessitate amputation. To manage and prevent diabetic foot complications, daily foot care is crucial. Inspect your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Keep feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Wear well-fitting shoes and avoid walking barefoot. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor your foot health.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Müller-Weiss disease, a rare foot condition, involves the collapse and degeneration of the navicular bone, which is the bone located on the top of the midfoot. This condition primarily affects adults, typically women in their 40s to 60s. Characterized by chronic midfoot pain, swelling, and deformity, Müller-Weiss disease often progresses slowly and asymmetrically, with one foot more affected than the other. The exact cause of this condition remains unclear, but factors such as trauma, abnormal foot mechanics, and genetic predisposition are considered contributors. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and imaging studies like X-rays or MRI scans to assess bone structure and integrity. Relief options vary based on the severity and may include rest, orthotic devices, and in severe cases, surgery to alleviate pain and restore foot function. If you have pain in the top of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a diagnosis and guidance toward treatment options that are right for you.

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.
 

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. Symptoms can include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Diagnosis is typically based on a physical examination and patient history, sometimes supplemented by imaging tests. Relief tactics involve a combination of rest, stretching exercises, and proper footwear with good arch support. For persistent cases, orthotic devices or medical interventions such as corticosteroid injections may be necessary. Early and consistent treatment is key to alleviating symptoms of plantar fasciitis and preventing chronic discomfort. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem, and treat it accordingly.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.

Toe fractures can occur due to various reasons, such as stubbing, dropping heavy objects, or even sports injuries. The impact can cause the toe bone to break, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking. Individuals may experience tenderness, bruising, and sometimes even a visible deformity depending on the severity of the fracture. To evaluate toe fractures, podiatrists may perform physical examinations and order X-rays to determine the type and severity of the break. Treatment options range from simple rest and elevation to immobilization using splints, buddy taping, or wearing a special shoe. In severe cases or for fractures that involve displaced bones, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones. If you have a broken toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment to facilitate optimal healing and prevent complications. 

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.