Pitt Research Team Tackles Osteoarthritis

Pitt Research Team Tackles Osteoarthritis

Deborah Cole Thomas' arthritis has led to an ankle replacement and two mid-foot fusions. She works out a a gym to help her joints remain flexible.60-year-old Deborah Cole Thomas is one of many Americans with constant foot and ankle pain caused by osteoarthritis. But relief for Deborah may be on the horizon thanks to new artificial joint-creation techniques currently being developed at the University of Pittsburgh.

Pitt scientists led by biological engineering expert Rocky S. Tuan are working on a way to 3D print replacement joints made out of stem cells and scaffolding material that could be much more effective than metal or plastic ones. They predict that this technology could be a successful form of treatment for osteoarthritis patients like Deborah, and might even be useful for treating the injuries of soldiers who are wounded on the battlefield.

Arthritis in the feet and ankles can make simple things like standing and walking extremely difficult. If you have questions about arthritis and your lower extremities, consider calling a podiatrist like Dr. Bryant A Tarr, D.P.M. of Sudbury & Westford Podiatry. Dr. Tarr will teach you about the essential elements of arthritic foot care and answer any questions you might have.

Arthritic Foot Care

In an average lifetime, we walk approximately 75,000 miles. This can put a great deal of stress on the 26 bones and 30 joints that we have in our feet. As we get older, our feet lose flexibility and elasticity. Our shock absorbers weaken, and if arthritis comes into play, the joints become inflamed and distorted. Arthritic foot care and treatment would become imperative at this point.

It is best to take care of your feet by wearing well-fitted shoes. Certain conditions may develop when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly, for example hammertoes, neuroma, and bunions. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room in the shoe can help your feet be comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with arch support will help; it is also a good idea to buy shoes that contour to your foot.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

-Specific exercises may help; stretching the Achilles tendon can prevent further pain and injury. Stretching can also increase your mobility.

For more information about Arthritic Foot Care, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices in Sudbury or Westford, MA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Arthritic Foot Care.

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