Septic Arthritis, also known as Infectious Arthritis, is caused by bacterium Staphylococcus Aureus or a fungus. The bacterium or fungus can travel through the body, settling on a joint and causing an infection.
The infection can be spread through a variety of ways, including:
- Bloodstream
- Injury
- Surgery
This condition usually affects one large joint e.g.the knee or hip, but in some cases can also affect the shoulder, wrist, elbow or ankle, resulting in excessive inflammation of the joint.
Common symptoms include:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Redness
- Heat
- Reduced range of movement
Treatment often requires a course of antibiotics and in more severe cases an Arthroscopy procedure is performed in order to drain the excess fluid from the joint.
Following Septic Arthritis, your Physiotherapist can provide you with passive movements and strengthening exercises to prevent long term stiffness. Ice is also used to reduce swelling and pain.
