Blog

Facts About Bunion Surgery

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Bunion surgery is a corrective procedure used to realign the bones and soft tissue surrounding the big toe joint when a bunion causes pain or interferes with daily activities. It may be recommended when non-surgical treatments no longer relieve discomfort or when the bunion worsens over time. The procedure involves removing the bony bump and adjusting the affected joint to restore normal alignment. Common reasons to have bunion surgery include chronic pain, swelling, difficulty wearing shoes, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist will evaluate your foot, discuss options, and guide your recovery for the best outcome. If bunion pain affects your quality of life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to see if surgery is the right solution for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

Bunionectomy for painful bunions
Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Caring for Your Feet Because They Carry You

Tuesday, 22 July 2025

Your feet support every step, every errand, and every moment on the move. They absorb impact, provide balance, and keep you grounded through the demands of daily life. Yet they are often overlooked until pain or problems appear. Dry skin, aching arches, or pressure points may seem minor, but they can lead to bigger issues if ignored. Conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or nail infections can interfere with comfort and mobility. Regular care, good hygiene, and proper footwear can make a meaningful difference in foot health and overall well-being. Your feet deserve attention, especially when they begin to show signs of strain. If discomfort, swelling, or changes in appearance persist, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for expert care and personalized solutions that help you stay active and supported.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

Common Foot Problems in Seniors

Tuesday, 15 July 2025

As people age, foot problems can become more frequent and affect mobility and comfort. Common foot issues for seniors include plantar fasciitis, which causes heel pain, arthritis that leads to joint stiffness, corns from pressure or friction, and diabetic foot problems that may result in poor healing or loss of sensation. Toenail issues, such as fungal infections or thickened nails, can also cause discomfort. These conditions may impact balance and increase the risk of falls. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing problems, providing treatment, recommending proper footwear, and managing chronic conditions. If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain or changes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert care and support for your long-term foot health.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

Heel Pain Due to Plantar Fasciitis

Tuesday, 08 July 2025

Plantar fasciitis is a leading cause of heel pain, due to inflammation or microtears in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Common causes include overuse, improper footwear, flat feet, or tight calf muscles. While many people experience pain with their first steps in the morning, a lesser-known symptom is pain that increases after long periods of standing or after exercise, rather than during it. Visually, the foot may appear normal, but the pain is usually localized in the heel or arch and feels sharp or stabbing. Some people also notice increased tension in the arch or swelling near the heel. A podiatrist can diagnose plantar fasciitis through a physical exam and by assessing your walking pattern. Treatment includes stretching, orthotics, supportive footwear, targeted exercises, and in some cases, injections. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

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 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.

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.

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Monday, 07 July 2025

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Blog

Blog Archives