Osteomyelitis: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Know about osteomyelitis, including its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Learn how it develops and the importance of early diagnosis for recovery.
Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 28th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Osteomyelitis is a serious but treatable bone infection that can affect people of all ages. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications, including bone damage and chronic pain. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you take the right steps toward recovery.
What Is Osteomyelitis?
Osteomyelitis occurs when bacteria or fungi infect a bone, leading to inflammation, pain, and sometimes pus formation. The infection can happen suddenly (acute) or develop slowly over time (chronic). While it can affect any bone, it most commonly occurs in the legs, arms, spine, or pelvis.
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Symptoms of Osteomyelitis
The signs of osteomyelitis can vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic. Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness in the affected bone
- Swelling, redness, and warmth around the infected area
- Fever and chills (especially in acute cases)
- Fatigue and irritability
- Difficulty moving the affected limb (if arms or legs are involved)
- Drainage of pus (in severe cases)
If you experience persistent bone pain along with fever, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.
Causes of Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis usually occurs when bacteria or fungi enter the bone through:
1. Bloodstream (Haematogenous spread) – Infections from other body parts (like urinary tract or skin infections) can travel through the blood to the bones. This is more common in children.
2. Injuries or surgeries – Open fractures, deep wounds, or surgical procedures near bones can introduce bacteria.
3. Contiguous spread – Infections from nearby tissues (such as diabetic foot ulcers) can spread to the bone.
4. Prosthetic implants – Artificial joints or metal implants can sometimes become infected.
People with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or poor blood circulation are at higher risk.
How Osteomyelitis Affects Your Health
If not treated early, osteomyelitis can lead to:
- Bone death (osteonecrosis) – The infection can cut off blood supply, causing part of the bone to die.
- Chronic infection – Some cases become long-term, requiring prolonged treatment.
- Spread of infection – The bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
- Joint damage – If the infection spreads to nearby joints, it can cause arthritis.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
Diagnosis of Osteomyelitis
Doctors use several tests to confirm osteomyelitis, including:
- Blood tests – To check for infection markers like high white blood cell count.
- Imaging tests – X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to detect bone damage.
- Bone biopsy – A small sample of bone is taken to identify the exact bacteria or fungus causing the infection.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection but usually includes:
1. Antibiotics or Antifungal Medications
- IV antibiotics are often given for 4-6 weeks to fight the infection.
- Oral antibiotics may follow if the infection improves.
2. Surgery (In Severe Cases)
- Debridement – Removal of infected or dead bone tissue.
- Drainage – If pus has formed, it may need to be drained.
- Bone grafting – In cases of significant bone loss, a graft may be needed.
3. Pain Management
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) can help with discomfort.
Lifestyle and Home Care Tips
To support recovery and prevent recurrence:
- Follow your doctor’s antibiotic schedule strictly – Skipping doses can make the infection resistant.
- Keep wounds clean – Properly care for cuts or surgical sites to prevent infections.
- Manage chronic conditions – Control diabetes or circulation problems to reduce risk.
- Eat a balanced diet – Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D (like dairy, leafy greens, and fish) support bone health.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol – These can slow healing.
When to See a Doctor
If you have persistent bone pain, swelling, or fever, consult a doctor immediately. Early treatment can prevent complications.
Conclusion
Osteomyelitis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications. Recognizing symptoms early, understanding the causes, and following the recommended treatment plan can help improve recovery outcomes and protect long-term bone health.
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Dr. Anil Sharma
Orthopaedician
42 Years • MBBS, MS Orthopedics
New Delhi
AAKASH MEDSQUARE, New Delhi
Dr. Anil Pradeep Jadhav
Orthopaedician
23 Years • MBBS MS (Ortho)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Mriganka Ghosh
Orthopaedician
11 Years • MD (Physician), DNB (Orthopaedics)
Howrah
Dr Mriganka Mouli Ghosh, Howrah
Dr. Vamsi Krishna Reddy
Orthopaedician
6 Years • MBBS, M.S.Orthopaedics
Guntur
Sri Krishna Orthopedic And Dental Hospital, Guntur
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon for the best advice
Dr. Anil Sharma
Orthopaedician
42 Years • MBBS, MS Orthopedics
New Delhi
AAKASH MEDSQUARE, New Delhi
Dr. Anil Pradeep Jadhav
Orthopaedician
23 Years • MBBS MS (Ortho)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Mriganka Ghosh
Orthopaedician
11 Years • MD (Physician), DNB (Orthopaedics)
Howrah
Dr Mriganka Mouli Ghosh, Howrah
Dr. Vamsi Krishna Reddy
Orthopaedician
6 Years • MBBS, M.S.Orthopaedics
Guntur
Sri Krishna Orthopedic And Dental Hospital, Guntur
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
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