Septic Arthritis
Experts Of
What is Septic Arthritis?
Septic arthritis is a bacterial infection inside a joint that causes severe pain, swelling, and limited movement. It is a medical emergency, especially in children, because the infection can rapidly damage the joint and lead to lifelong disability if not treated immediately.
The condition most commonly affects the hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow joints.
Key Facts About Septic Arthritis
- Common in infants and young children under 5 years
- Can permanently damage a joint within 48 hours
- Usually caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus
- Requires urgent surgical drainage and antibiotics
- Early diagnosis leads to full recovery in most cases
Causes of Septic Arthritis
- Bloodstream infection from other parts of the body
- After trauma, cuts, or minor injuries
- Post-surgery or after joint injections
- From infections like skin boils or upper respiratory infections
Children with weakened immune systems or recent infections are at higher risk.
Symptoms and Consequences
Key Signs Parents Should Watch For:
- Sudden joint pain, especially in the leg or hip
- Swelling, warmth, and redness over the joint
- High fever and irritability
- Limping or refusal to walk in toddlers
- Crying during diaper change in babies (hip involvement)
If Untreated:
- Rapid destruction of cartilage and bone
- Permanent joint stiffness or deformity
- Growth problems in the affected limb
- Life-threatening sepsis if the infection spreads
Treatment of Septic Arthritis at Child OrthoCare
At Child OrthoCare, under Dr. Nargesh Agrawal, we treat septic arthritis as an emergency with a fast, coordinated approach.
1. Diagnosis:
- Clinical exam and joint tenderness
- Blood tests (CRP, ESR, WBC count)
- Ultrasound or MRI to detect fluid in the joint
- Joint aspiration (needle withdrawal of fluid) for confirmation
2. Emergency Surgical Drainage:
Open or arthroscopic surgery to clean out the infected joint
- Prevents further joint damage
- Done under general anesthesia with a child-safe protocol
3. Intravenous Antibiotics:
- IV antibiotics started immediately
- Switched to oral antibiotics after improvement
- Typical course: 2–4 weeks based on severity
4. Recovery and Rehabilitation:
- Pain management and gradual mobilization
- Physiotherapy to restore full movement
- Regular follow-up to monitor healing and growth
Did You Know?
- Septic arthritis in children is more common than in adults
- Hip infections may show no swelling, only refusal to walk
- Most children recover completely with timely surgery and antibiotics
- Delay in treatment is the biggest risk factor for joint damage
Myths and Facts About Septic Arthritis
Myth: It’s just a viral fever and joint pain.
Fact: Fever with joint pain in a child must be checked urgently for septic arthritis.
Myth: Antibiotics alone can treat it.
Fact: Most children need surgical drainage for a full cure.
Myth: It’s okay to wait and observe for a few days.
Fact: Waiting even 24–48 hours can lead to irreversible joint damage.
Myth: Septic arthritis only affects the knee.
Fact: It can affect any joint, especially the hip, which is often hard to diagnose early.