Septic arthritis, also known as infectious arthritis, is a joint infection that arises when bacteria spreads through the bloodstream from another body part. It can also occur if an injury, like an animal bite or trauma, directly introduces bacteria, leading to bacterial arthritis or sepsis arthritis, into the joint.
This condition is more common in infants and older people. Individuals with artificial joints are also at higher risk. While knees are often affected, septic arthritis can also impact hips, shoulders, and other joints.
Key symptoms and patterns
The infection can rapidly and significantly harm the joint's cartilage and bone, making immediate arthritis treatment vital. Symptoms of Septic Arthritis Infectious arthritis manifests through several distinct symptoms: Pain and tenderness: Individuals often experience pain and tenderness in the affected joint.
Swelling and warmth: Swelling and warmth are commonly observed in the joints affected by septic arthritis. Limited range of motion: A reduced range of motion is a prevalent symptom, challenging regular joint movement.
Reluctance to Use or move the joint: Patients may exhibit reluctance or an aversion to using or moving the affected joint. Fever: A fever is another indicative symptom of septic arthritis.
Common causes and risk factors
Causes of Septic Arthritis Septic arthritis arises from an infection, caused by bacteria, fungi, mycobacteria, viruses, or/and other pathogens. The disease originates in some other part of the body, and then spreads through the bloodstream to the joints.
Specifically, the following organisms are known to cause septic arthritis: Staphylococcus aureus (Staph): This bacterium, known as staph, is the leading cause of septic arthritis in children and adults.
Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): MRSA, a resistant strain of staph infection, poses a heightened risk for individuals using intravenous (IV) drugs, those with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus infection), or individuals with diabetes.
Diagnosis and evaluation
Groups A and B streptococci: Streptococci, a type of bacteria, increase the risk of septic arthritis, particularly in elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions such as diabetes and cirrhosis.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae: This bacterium, causing gonorrhoea (a sexually transmitted infection), may lead to gonococcal arthritis, a form of septic arthritis. Neisseria meningitidis (Meningococcus): While rare, this bacterium, responsible for meningitis, can potentially cause septic arthritis.
Meningitis involves inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Treatment and self-care
Read more- Inflammatory Arthritis: Types, Causes and Diagnosis Risk Factors of Septic Arthritis Factors that elevate the risk of developing septic arthritis include: Existing joint conditions: Conditions like osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus, which impact the joints, can heighten the risk.
Previous joint surgeries and injuries are also risk factors. Artificial joints: Joint replacement surgery might introduce bacteria, or germs might reach the artificial joint through the bloodstream from another part of the body.
Consult Dr. Kumar Deepak in Lucknow
Persistent joint, bone, or muscle symptoms deserve a structured evaluation rather than repeated self-treatment alone.
Dr. Kumar Deepak — M.S. Ortho (Gold Medalist), F.I.J.R | ASAMI | AO Trauma — consults at The OrthoVision Clinic and Remedy Medicity, Lucknow. Call to book an appointment and discuss a plan suited to your activity level.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see an orthopaedic specialist instead of waiting?
Seek review if pain lasts more than a few weeks, disturbs sleep, causes limping, or limits work and daily tasks despite rest and simple measures.
Does this information replace an in-person examination?
No. Online guides help you understand options, but diagnosis depends on clinical examination and investigations tailored to your case.
Where can I get orthopaedic care in Lucknow?
Dr. Kumar Deepak sees patients at The OrthoVision Clinic (Ahmamau, Sultanpur Road) and Remedy Medicity, Lucknow.
