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Tuesday, 19 September 2017 00:00

Everything to Know About Plantar Fasciitis

Many people who suffer from foot pain are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, but what is it? Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament in the heel. Symptoms consist of a stabbing or burning pain in the heel, which tends to worsen from overuse. Thankfully, it is a condition that can be treated. Typical causes of plantar fasciitis include repetitive movements from athletic activities, flat feet, obesity, age, and poor footwear. If you think you suffer from plantar fasciitis, see a podiatrist for a diagnosis. Treatment can include a simple change in footwear, orthotics, keeping pressure off the foot, and corticosteroids. Plantar fasciitis can be painful, but it is treatable with proper care.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. 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 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 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 Plantar Fasciitis
Monday, 11 September 2017 00:00

Avoiding Running Injuries

Avoiding injuries when running is important and can make your running experience more enjoyable. For new runners, start slowly and avoid pushing yourself too hard; the key is to gradually build yourself up. Before and after a run, stretch to loosen muscles and prevent strain. Strength training can also build muscle and durability; just be sure to rest one day before running or training again. A sign that you may be pushing yourself too much is if you cannot talk in complete sentences when running; if so, you may want to slow down. Keeping a good diet to replace lost calories and vitamins, hydrating plenty, and getting enough sleep will keep your body from quickly getting fatigued. If you do feel pain, stop running. If the pain resides in your feet, take it easy and rest. If the pain doesn’t go away, you may want to see a podiatrist for a diagnosis.

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 Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley 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 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 How to Prevent Running Injuries
Tuesday, 05 September 2017 00:00

Bengals Jeremy Hill Suffers Ankle Injury

Running back Jeremy Hill of the Cincinnati Bengals recently sustained an ankle injury in a game against the Washington Redskins. It is unknown how severe the injury is or how long he will be out for. Hill has been reliable throughout his career, missing only one game for three seasons. He is also considered to be an effective player who can rush yards. The Bengals have two options for a temporary replacement: Giovani Bernard and Joe Mixon. Both are seen as adequate replacements for Hill while he recovers.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Plantar Fasciosis
  • Achilles Tendinitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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 Sports Related Foot And Ankle Injuries

A major problem among those who suffer from diabetes is poor blood circulation and nerve damage. This can lead to diabetics developing foot ulcers that don’t heal properly or quickly. In more severe cases in which the wound has become infected, this can lead to amputation. The first step is to keep the diabetes in check by observing blood glucose levels and staying healthy. Inspecting the foot daily is important because nerve damage can prevent a diabetic from realizing they have an ulcer. Foot inspections can help diabetics discover a wound early so they can alert a podiatrist. If there is a wound, diabetics should wash the wound with saline or clean water. Applying an antibiotic ointment and covering with a bandage is also important. However these solutions are only temporary, and you should see a podiatrist if you have a foot ulcer.

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 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.

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 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 How to Care for Diabetic Foot
Monday, 14 August 2017 00:00

Michael Brantley Suffers Ankle Sprain

All-Star outfielder Michael Brantley of the Cleveland Indians suffered a sprain in his right ankle during a game against the Colorado Rockies. He unfortunately had to exit the game due to the injury and was seen limping off the field. Brantley is no stranger to injuries as he missed most of the 2016 season while recovering from shoulder surgery. He also suffered another ankle sprain earlier this season which resulted in a trip to the 10 day disabled list. This season, the outfielder has batted .299 with 9 home runs and 52 RBIs in only 88 games.

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, 08 August 2017 00:00

How to Achieve Healthy Feet

Now that summer is here, it is especially important that you take care of your feet so you can enjoy the season. The American Podiatric Medical Association recently gave out some tips that are geared towards helping you maintain healthy feet. One of the most important tips you can follow is to avoid walking barefoot. This is especially crucial when you are in locker rooms, pools, or at the beach. You should also protect your feet by using sunscreen and by regularly applying it after you go swimming. Another tip is to drink a lot of water, so that you can avoid swelling in the feet and ankles. Lastly, be sure to wear water shoes if you plan on being around the water, and bring dry shoes that you can change into after you are done swimming.

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.

Read more about Every Day Foot Care

Blood circulation is an essential bodily function since it supplies the body’s vital organs with enough oxygen and nutrients needed to operate. Poor blood circulation can potentially harm the heart, kidneys, and brain, and it may even have fatal consequences if left untreated. One of the most common signs of poor circulation is numbness in the hands and feet. This is often the result of compressed nerves, extreme coldness, a lack of magnesium, and vitamin B12 deficiency.  Another obvious sign of poor circulation is swelling in the lower extremities. If you notice you have swelling, you should lay down and raise your legs up above your heart. Coldness in the hands and feet is another symptom of poor circulation that should not go unnoticed. A disruption of blood flow prevents the blood from reaching the furthest parts of the body, which are the fingers and toes.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

  • Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
  • Numbness or cramping in the legs 
  • Skin discoloration
  • Slower nail & hair growth
  • Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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 Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Poor Blood Circulation in the Feet

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.8 million people die each year due to complications resulting from obesity. Researchers at the University Hospital in Denmark conducted a study that showed obesity was linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis development in women. This is largely attributed to the fact that obesity disrupts bone health and development. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects the joints in the feet, hands, and knees. While there isn’t a cure for the inflammatory disorder, the best way to treat it is by use of medication and physical therapy.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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 How Obesity Affects Your Feet

Surprisingly, there are girls who are as young as six-years-old who are starting to wear heels. Researchers have found that celebrities such as Taylor Swift and girl-group ‘Little Mix’ are part of the reason why young girls are wanting to wear heels. According to a study, one in ten girls begins to wear small heeled shoes at age six, which may cause the calf muscles to shorten while also putting pressure on the ball of the foot. Another study was able to find that children are in danger of suffering long term damage to their feet due to the unsuitable shoes they are wearing. It is crucial that parents have their child’s feet measured from ages one to three, because this is the stage where foot growth occurs most rapidly.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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 Do to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Tuesday, 27 June 2017 00:00

Treating Cracked Feet

Cracked heels can affect anyone of any age, and they are caused by a lack of moisture. Thankfully, at-home remedies may be performed in order to rid yourself of this unsightly condition. Prior to treating your cracked heels, it is crucial that you are aware of what may be causing them. Cold weather, harsh soaps, standing for long hours, and improper footwear have all been linked as causes of cracked heels. A simple treatment you can try for cracked feet is to soak them in warm soapy water for twenty minutes at night. Afterwards, try using a pumice stone to scrape off any dead skin you may have. You should then rinse your feet, and carefully dry them with a towel. Lastly, moisturize them with a foot cream and wear a pair of socks overnight in order to trap in the moisture. If you have a more severe case of cracked heels, you should not hesitate to seek help from a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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 Solutions for Cracked Heels
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