What Is Septic Arthritis?
Septic arthritis is a serious infection inside a joint. The infection can affect the joint fluid and surrounding tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling.
Septic arthritis may develop from:
- Bacterial infections
- Skin wounds or infections
- Recent joint surgery or injections
- Open fractures or injuries
- Infections spreading through the bloodstream
Risk factors can include diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, weakened immune system, IV drug use, older age, and previous joint disease.
In most cases, bacteria travel through the bloodstream and settle in a joint. Without quick treatment, the infection can damage cartilage and lead to long-term joint problems.
Symptoms
Symptoms of septic arthritis often appear suddenly and can become severe quickly.
Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Warmth or redness around the joint
- Fever or chills
- Difficulty moving the joint
- Pain when putting weight on the joint
The infection usually affects one joint, most often the knee, hip, shoulder, or elbow.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose septic arthritis by examining the joint and reviewing symptoms and medical history.
Testing may include:
- Joint fluid aspiration to test for infection
- Blood tests
- Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound
- Additional testing to identify the source of infection
Early diagnosis is important to help prevent permanent damage to the joint.
How Is It Treated?
Septic arthritis requires prompt medical treatment to stop the infection and protect the joint.
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics
- Antifungal medicines in some cases
- Drainage of infected joint fluid
- Pain-relief medicines
- Temporary splinting or rest
Some patients may need surgery to clean the joint if the infection is severe or does not improve with drainage alone.
Physical therapy is often recommended during recovery to help restore joint movement, flexibility, and strength. Recovery depends on how quickly treatment begins and whether joint damage occurred.
