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Uniontown 
Connellsville 
(724) 320-2447
pedal
 

June 2018

Monday, 25 June 2018 00:00

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, which causes the immune system to attack the joints. This condition is known to affect the hands, feet, and wrists. There are general symptoms to look for if you suspect that you may be suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. The most common symptom of this condition is joint pain. This pain usually presents itself as a throbbing sensation or as a constant ache in the joint. This joint pain is usually at its worst after periods of inactivity, which is why people with RA feel the majority of this type of pain in the morning. Symptoms of this condition may vary from person to person, and if you suspect that you have rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, you should speak with your podiatrist as soon as possible.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Feet

Swollen feet are often a side effect of being pregnant. The additional weight that is gained is often noticed throughout the body and many times the feet and ankles will be affected. As the pregnancy progresses, this condition often becomes uncomfortable, and relief may be obtained by elevating the feet as often as possible. Additionally, there are exercises that can be incorporated into your daily routine, and alternating between sitting and standing may help your feet feel more comfortable. Research has suggested that drinking  plenty of fresh water daily and avoiding salt will aid in maintaining any swelling that may occur. Furthermore, wearing correct footwear will allow additional room for any expanded growth of the feet and this may possibly avoid certain foot ailments from developing. These conditions may include flat feet, ingrown toenails, or cracked heels and will generally inhibit the well-being feeling that often accompanies pregnancy. Please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist if you would like additional information on how pregnancy may affect your feet.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Monday, 11 June 2018 00:00

Tips to Fight Against Foot Pain

A recent survey has concluded that 8 out of 10 Americans have experienced some sort of foot problem. Depending on the specific condition, foot pain can cause problems throughout the day and may make completing everyday activities difficult. In order to prevent problematic foot conditions, you should make sure you are choosing the right shoes for your feet. When you are shopping for a new pair of shoes, you should ensure that there is at least half an inch of space between your longest toe and the top of the shoe. If you have foot pain, you shouldn't follow the adage, “If you can walk on it, it isn’t broken” because it isn’t true. If you are experiencing pain in your feet, you shouldn't hesitate to seek help from a podiatrist.

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.

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 and ankle needs.

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Monday, 04 June 2018 00:00

What is a Heel Spur?

Excess calcium that develops on the heel of the foot may be referred to as a heel spur. It is often noticed by feeling an intense pain in the heel while standing, especially in the morning. Additional symptoms may include swelling, tenderness and an achiness that is felt throughout the day. When an X-ray is performed, a small protrusion is generally visible on the heel of the foot. This condition will typically develop gradually, and is often the result of engaging in activities that wear down the tissues in the arches and heels. Wearing poorly fitting shoes that lack adequate cushioning may be a common reason for heel spurs to form, in addition to being overweight which may contribute to the amount of pressure the heels must endure. Research has shown the importance of resting the feet so the pain may subside. There are several treatment options for heel spurs and it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist for additional information.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
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