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Uniontown 
Connellsville 
(724) 320-2447
pedal
 

August 2024

Tuesday, 27 August 2024 00:00

Methods to Prevent Ankle Sprains

Preventing an ankle sprain is important to keep you active and reduce the risk of long recovery periods. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue connecting bones in your ankle, are overstretched or torn. This often happens when the foot twists or rolls unexpectedly. Risk factors for ankle sprains can include participating in sports, wearing poorly fitting footwear, walking on uneven surfaces, and having a previous history of sprains. Strengthening the muscles surrounding your ankle is a good way to prevent injuries, such as sprains. Exercises like heel raises can build up the muscles in your calves, providing better support for your ankles. Stretching these muscles regularly, particularly those in the lower part of the calf, enhances flexibility and reduces the risk of overstretching the ligaments. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice on exercises and other preventive measures. If you have incurred an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment ooptions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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 Ankle Sprains
Tuesday, 20 August 2024 00:00

Exploring Types of Foot and Ankle Pain

Toe, foot, and ankle pain can stem from various conditions, each requiring specific attention. Achilles tendinitis, characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often results in heel and calf pain from overuse or strain. Bruises occur when blood vessels under the skin are damaged, causing localized pain and discoloration. Puncture wounds, typically from sharp objects, can lead to infection and persistent discomfort. Stress fractures, small cracks in the bones from repetitive stress, are common in athletes and cause gradual pain that worsens with activity. Additionally, plantar fasciitis, involving inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes, leads to sharp heel pain, especially noticeable in the morning. If you are experiencing foot, ankle, or toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat any foot condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 13 August 2024 00:00

Is It a Broken Toe?

A broken toe, often caused by stubbing it against furniture, dropping something heavy on it, or trauma during sports, can be quite painful. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in  walking. Sometimes, you might even hear a crack at the time of injury or notice the toe looking out of place. For a mild fracture, treatments such as resting, taking pain relief medication, and wearing comfortable shoes or orthotics can help. Taping the injured toe to the one next to it is another way to manage the pain and aid healing. However, if pain persists after a few days, swelling doe not subside, or if you have trouble walking after six weeks, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get a precise diagnosis and treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. from Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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 What to Know About a Broken Toe
Friday, 09 August 2024 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

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.

Tuesday, 06 August 2024 00:00

Types of Corns and Relief Methods

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to pressure or friction, typically on toes or feet. They form as a protective response, often due to wearing ill-fitting shoes or repetitive rubbing. There are two main types of foot corns. Hard corns are small, concentrated areas of hardened skin on the tops or sides of toes. Soft corns are found between toes where moisture accumulates. Both types can cause discomfort or pain, especially while walking or wearing shoes. Relief can be found through gentle exfoliation, using a pumice stone or foot file to reduce thickness, followed by moisturizing with creams to soften the skin. Wearing properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room can help prevent recurrence. In severe cases, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for professional treatment, such as trimming or padding, which may be necessary to alleviate discomfort and promote healthy skin.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley 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 Dr. Tarpley to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 Corns and Calluses
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