True or False? May is Arthritis Awareness Month

True! Throughout May, all across the country, people are increasing their understanding of this degenerative disease. Here are five questions from Dr. James M. McKee to test your knowledge:

1.      True or false: Arthritis is one disease.

FALSE. “Arthritis” is actually the medical term for over 100 degenerative joint conditions. Common forms include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and even gout, which occurs due to a buildup of uric acid crystals in the bloodstream.

2.      True or false: Your feet are particularly vulnerable to arthritis.

TRUE. Over one quarter of all the bones in your body are in your feet and ankles and they work together in over 30 different joints. This means that arthritis in the feet is common.

3.      True or false: Everyone is at risk of arthritis.

TRUE. Anyone can get arthritis – men, women, and even children. Women, people who are overweight and the elderly are most at risk.

4.      True or false: You can spot symptoms of arthritis.

TRUE. Keep an eye out for redness, swelling, reduced range of motion, difficulty wearing shoes, and pain when standing or walking. In later stages, foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes may occur.

5.      True or false: There’s nothing anyone can do to relieve arthritis symptoms in the feet.

FALSE. A board-certified podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS can help you manage the pain of arthritis in your feet and ankles. Common treatment options include over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain and swelling, oral and injected steroids to address inflammation, new comfortable shoes to allow you to move through your day with ease, custom orthotics for cushioning and support, mobility assistance with a cane or a brace, physical therapy, and surgery to correct deformities, but only in extreme cases.

If you are suffering from arthritis, or if you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, call Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or click here today to schedule an appointment with Dr. James M. McKee in our comfortable office on Solomons Island Road. Dr. McKee will conduct a thorough examination, diagnose your issue, and work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for treatment and ongoing care.