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Waldorf Office

(301)-843-9581

Clinton Office

(301)-868-3899

California Office

(301)-690-6044

Take Control of Your Arthritis Risk

Did you know that the National Arthritis Foundation estimates that 50 million adults and 300,000 children in America suffer from arthritis? Since your feet carry the total weight of your body, arthritis- related injuries are a frequent occurrence in your feet. May is National Arthritis Awareness Month and we at Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle want you to take charge of your foot health and minimize your risk of arthritis with a healthy lifestyle.

Food that Fights Inflammation

Your diet can play a big part in keeping arthritis away. Of course maintaining a healthy weight reduces the pressure on your joints and bones, which is key for nearly all foot disorders. There are however, foods that fight inflammation and increase bone strength. Polyphenols are compounds that have been shown to have major anti-inflammatory effects. They are found in white, green and black tea and coffee. Many vegetables contain inflammation-fighting antioxidants, including: sweet potatoes, carrots, onions and garlic. Others are high in vitamin C such as peppers and certain green vegetables like broccoli, kale and bok choy—these also have the benefit of being a source of calcium which can strengthen your bones. Omega 3 fatty acids found in walnuts and fish like salmon and mackerel can also significantly reduce inflammation.

Exercise Your Right to be Pain Free

Exercise can help prevent arthritis or slow its progression in a number of ways. Muscle-strengthening exercise gives joints additional support. Stretching improves range of motion and aerobic exercise helps with overall health, fitness and weight control.

Take Care to Avoid Injury

In many cases, arthritis affects joints that have been previously injured. Although accidents are not always avoidable, you can decrease your risk of injury by wearing proper footwear for your sports activities and participating in safe training regimens.

Although some factors, such as age and genetics are beyond your control, there are many actions you can take to lower your risk of arthritis and maintain good foot health. Our board certified foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Larry Hotchkiss is available to consult with you about concerns you may have about your podiatric health now and in the future. Contact our Waldorf or Clinton office for an appointment by calling: (301) 868-3899 or (301) 843-9581.

Our Locations

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule (Closed for Lunch from 11:30 am - 12:15 pm)

Clinton Office

Monday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

Waldorf Office

Monday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

7:00 am-3:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed

California Office

Monday:

Closed

Tuesday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

7:30 am-4:00 pm

Friday:

Closed

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed