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Podiatrists Help Relieve the Pressure of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tuesday, 11 August 2026

Tarsal tunnel syndrome develops when a nerve becomes compressed near the inside of the ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow passage called the tarsal tunnel. It then divides into branches that serve the bottom of the foot. Pressure in this area can cause pain behind the inner ankle or along the heel, arch, and sole. Symptoms also include burning, tingling, or numbness that reaches the toes. The discomfort usually worsens while standing or walking, but it can also disrupt sleep or other daily activities.

Several problems can place pressure on the nerve. Causes include a cyst, swelling, or scar tissue within the tunnel. An ankle injury or a foot deformity can narrow the space around the nerve. Flat feet can increase strain by changing the position of the ankle and foot. Arthritis, poor vein function, and swollen ankle tendons are other possible factors. A podiatrist begins the evaluation by asking about symptoms and examining the foot. Gentle pressure or tapping below the inner ankle may produce tingling, which can help locate the irritated nerve.

A podiatrist can also assess foot structure, joint motion, and areas of swelling. Nerve tests can measure how well electrical signals travel through the affected area. Imaging can reveal a cyst or another growth that is pressing on the nerve. Treatment focuses on reducing pressure and supporting better foot alignment. A podiatrist can provide custom orthotics, apply supportive strapping, or recommend an appropriate brace. In certain cases, an injection can reduce inflammation around the nerve. When a growth causes compression or other care does not bring enough relief, surgery can create more room for the nerve. Early evaluation can help prevent continued nerve irritation and guide treatment toward the underlying cause. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
Ankle sprains
Broken ankles
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendon rupture
Stress fractures
Tarsal tunnel syndrome
Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Wednesday, 05 August 2026

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Gout and Podiatric Care

Tuesday, 04 August 2026

Gout is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis and often affects the foot, especially the big toe joint. It occurs when high levels of uric acid build up in the blood and form sharp crystals in the joints. These crystals trigger inflammation, leading to sudden and severe pain. The condition may develop quickly, and can return in repeated episodes if not managed properly. Understanding the definition and causes of gout is important for early recognition and treatment.

Symptoms of gout typically include intense pain in the big toe, swelling, and warmth around the joint. The pain often begins suddenly, sometimes during the night, and can be severe enough to limit movement. Some individuals may also experience stiffness or lingering discomfort after the initial attack. These symptoms can affect daily activities and may worsen, if left untreated. Early identification of these signs can help reduce the severity of flare-ups.

Risk factors for gout include high levels of uric acid in the body, which may result from diet, genetics, or certain medical conditions. Foods rich in purines, such as red meat and seafood, can increase uric acid production. Other risk factors include obesity, dehydration, and certain medications. Limited kidney function can also reduce the body ability to remove uric acid effectively. These factors contribute to crystal formation and joint inflammation over time.

Managing gout involves reducing uric acid levels and preventing future flare ups. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing weight can help lower risk. Treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation and control uric acid levels. Monitoring symptoms and seeking professional care can improve long-term outcomes. If you have gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Causes and Symptoms of Bunions

Tuesday, 28 July 2026

A bunion is a change in foot shape that develops when the big toe slowly shifts toward the smaller toes. As the toe moves, the joint at its base becomes more prominent, and forms a bump along the side of the foot. Doctors call this condition hallux valgus, but bunion is the name most people recognize. Some bunions cause very little discomfort, while others lead to pain that makes standing and walking difficult. The enlarged joint can become swollen, tender, and irritated from pressure inside shoes. The big toe can also crowd nearby toes, causing them to rub together or change position. As the deformity progresses, the joint can become stiff, making it harder to move the toe comfortably.

Several factors increase the chance of developing a bunion. Family history is one of the most important, because inherited foot structure can place extra stress on the big toe joint. Flat feet and joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis also increase the risk. Shoes that lack proper support, especially narrow styles or high heels, do not usually cause bunions by themselves. They can make an existing bunion more painful and allow the deformity to progress. A podiatrist can diagnose the bunion by examining the foot, checking toe movement, and watching how the patient stands and walks. Standing X-rays show bone alignment and help determine the severity of the bunion.

Treatment depends on the amount of pain, the severity of the bunion, and its effect on daily activities. A podiatrist can recommend properly fitted shoes, custom orthotics, and protective padding to reduce pressure on the joint. These treatments improve comfort and help patients stay active. When the deformity becomes severe and continues to interfere with walking, surgery can straighten the big toe and improve foot alignment. If you have pain from a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

Common Types of Foot Arthritis and Their Impact on Mobility

Tuesday, 21 July 2026

Foot arthritis includes several conditions that affect the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Among these, psoriatic arthritis is a significant inflammatory type that can lead to debilitating foot pain. It differs from other forms of arthritis because it involves both joint inflammation and changes in the surrounding soft tissue. This condition can affect multiple joints in the foot, making walking and standing difficult over time.

Symptoms often include persistent joint pain, swelling, and a feeling of warmth in the affected areas. Dactylitis is a key sign, where toes appear swollen and enlarged, resembling a sausage-like shape. Patients may also notice stiffness after periods of inactivity, as well as tenderness along tendons and ligaments. These symptoms can gradually worsen, leading to decreased mobility and challenges with everyday activities.

The causes of psoriatic arthritis are linked to immune system dysfunction, where the body mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. Risk factors include having psoriasis, a family history of autoimmune conditions, and certain environmental influences. Stress, infections, and physical trauma may also contribute to the onset or worsening of symptoms. Understanding these risk factors can help with early identification and management.

Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, preserving joint function, and improving quality of life. Wearing supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and targeted therapies can help relieve pressure on affected joints. Early intervention is essential to prevent long term damage. Consistent care with a podiatrist allows for monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans. If you have foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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