Understanding Osteomyelitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Understanding Osteomyelitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Osteomyelitis may sound like a rare or obscure medical condition, but it’s something that can happen to anyone—especially following surgery, injury, or chronic health problems like diabetes. It refers to an infection in a bone, and while it's less common than other infections, it can be serious if not treated promptly.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what osteomyelitis is, how it occurs, the symptoms to watch for, and how modern medicine treats this condition.

What Is Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. It can be caused by bacteria or, less commonly, fungi. The infection can reach a bone by traveling through the bloodstream or spreading from nearby tissue. It can also begin in the bone itself if an injury exposes the bone to germs.

There are two main types:

• Acute osteomyelitis – develops rapidly over a period of 7–10 days.

• Chronic osteomyelitis – a long-standing infection that can persist for months or even years if not treated properly.

Causes and Risk Factors

The most common cause of osteomyelitis is the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium, which is present on most people’s skin. It becomes a problem when it enters the body through a wound, surgical site, or via the bloodstream.

Common risk factors include:

• Recent bone surgery or orthopedic implants

• Open fractures or puncture wounds

• Diabetes, especially if there are foot ulcers

• Weakened immune system (due to cancer, HIV, or medication)

• Intravenous drug use

Signs and Symptoms

Osteomyelitis symptoms can vary depending on the cause, age of the patient, and the bone involved, but common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness in the affected area

• Swelling, warmth, and redness

• Fever and chills

• Fatigue or malaise

• Limited movement if a limb is affected

• In chronic cases, persistent drainage from a sinus tract (an abnormal passage between the bone and the skin)

In children, it often affects the long bones of the arms or legs. In adults, it more commonly affects the spine, feet, or hips.

Diagnosis

If osteomyelitis is suspected, a doctor will typically use a combination of:

• Physical examination to check for pain and swelling

• Blood tests to look for signs of infection

• Imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to detect bone damage

• Bone biopsy, the most definitive test, which can identify the type of microorganism causing the infection

Treatment Options

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent complications like bone death or sepsis. Treatments typically include:

1. Antibiotics

Most cases are treated with high doses of intravenous antibiotics for several weeks, often followed by oral antibiotics. The exact type depends on the bacteria identified.

2. Surgery

In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to:

• Drain abscesses or pus

• Remove infected bone and tissue

• Restore blood flow to the bone

• Remove foreign objects or implants

3. Supportive Care

Pain management, wound care, and physical therapy may also be part of recovery.

Can Osteomyelitis Be Prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, steps to lower the risk include:

• Keeping wounds clean and covered

• Treating infections early

• Managing chronic conditions like diabetes

• Avoiding unnecessary use of IV drugs

• Practicing good hygiene after surgeries or injuries

Final Thoughts

Osteomyelitis is a serious but treatable condition. With medical advances, even chronic cases can often be managed effectively. The key lies in early detection and timely treatment. If you or someone you love is experiencing unexplained bone pain, swelling, or signs of infection, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala at Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.