Septic arthritis

Septic arthritis is an infection in a joint. The infection most often affects a knee, ankle, wrist, shoulder, or hip. The joint is often warm, swollen, and very painful. If it is not treated right away, it can quickly do serious damage to the joint.

When you have septic arthritis, the infected joint is often warm, red, and swollen. You will likely have a lot of pain when you try to move the joint. Most people also have a fever.

The main way your doctor will diagnose septic arthritis is by testing the fluid in the affected joint. The doctor removes the fluid. Then the fluid is tested in a lab. The test will help the doctor know if the fluid is infected. The test will also help find which germ is causing the infection.

Your doctor will do a physical exam. They will ask you about any past injuries or surgeries. The doctor will also ask about other health problems, such as arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

You may have tests to help check for infection. These may include blood or urine tests or a test of any infected skin. You may also have imaging to look for joint damage or extra fluid around the joint. This may include X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans.

Treatment often starts with antibiotics. At first, you likely will be treated in the hospital so you can get the medicine through a needle in a vein (I.V.). Your doctor may also give you medicine to take by mouth after you leave the hospital.

Treatment also includes draining the joint to remove the infection. Your doctor may drain the joint with a needle. Or you may need surgery to drain the joint. If all of the infected fluid is not removed the first time, you may need this treatment more than once.

Your doctor may splint your joint to keep it from moving. This helps protect the joint and relieves pain. But as soon as the infection is under control, your doctor will likely suggest physical therapy. This will help you get back the full use of the joint.

Early treatment can prevent permanent damage to the joint.

• You will receive antibiotics through a vein (I.V.) at first. After this, you may take antibiotics by mouth.
• Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Rest the joint as much as you can.
• If possible, prop up the injured joint on pillows as much as possible for the next 3 days. Try to keep it at or above the level of your heart. This can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Follow your doctor's instructions on exercises for the affected joint.
• Do not smoke. Smoking can make it harder for your body to fight the infection. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.