Septic Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Septic Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disorder where bacteria or other microorganisms enter the joint cavity and cause an infection. It may affect any joint in the body, but the hip, knee, and shoulder joints are often the ones that are affected the most.

• Acute septic arthritis: This is the most common type and is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. It typically affects a single joint and can lead to rapid destruction of the affected area if not treated quickly.
• Chronic septic arthritis: In this type, the infection has been present in the joint for an extended period, resulting in damage to the cartilage and joint structure over time. Chronic septic arthritis often affects multiple joints simultaneously, making it more difficult to treat.
• Asymptomatic septic arthritis: This type is often difficult to diagnose as there are usually no symptoms or signs of infection. However, it is important to diagnose as it can cause long-term damage if left untreated.

A bacterial, viral, or fungal infection enters the joint space and produces inflammation, resulting in septic arthritis. It may be spread via:

• Direct injury: Injuries to the joint such as cuts or punctures that allow bacteria to enter the joint space from another part of the body
• Bloodstream: Pathogens travelling through the bloodstream to reach the joint and cause an infection
• Transplant: Organ transplant patients are at an increased risk due to a weakened immune system when they receive medical devices like artificial prostheses.

• Pain and swelling in the affected joint.
• Fever and chills.
• Joint stiffness, redness, and warmth to the touch.
• A reduction in the range of motion of the impacted joint.
• Tenderness while applying pressure on the impacted joint area.
• Difficulty or inability to use or move the affected joint normally.

• Follow good hygiene practices, like regular handwashing.
• Avoid sharing personal items with others.
• If you have any joint injury, seek immediate medical care before it leads to septic arthritis.
• Exercise regularly and try to avoid contact sports or activities requiring physical exertion that can cause joint injuries.
• Take vaccines as recommended by your doctor to protect against certain infections that can lead to septic arthritis.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity is linked to increased risk of septic arthritis in some cases.

• Physical exam: Septic arthritis can be detected during the physical exam by redness and tenderness in the affected area, as well as restricted movement. Joint swelling, warm skin, pain on motion and guarding of the joint may also be present.
• White blood cell count: The white blood cell count (WBC) is a test that helps evaluate infections or inflammation, as well as check for other diseases. A high WBC could be present if an individual has septic arthritis, indicating the presence of an infection.
• C-reactive protein (CRP): C-reactive protein level is a source of nonspecific inflammation in the body and is often measured to help diagnose disorders related to systemic inflammation or infection, such as septic arthritis. If the CRP levels are high, it can suggest that there is an increased amount of inflammatory activity due to an underlying infectious process within the body such as septic arthritis.
• X-rays: X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for detecting septic arthritis and can be used to detect the presence of fluid around the joint, identify any structural changes to the joint and bones, detect any bony erosion (such as from inflammation or bacteria), and evaluate the effectiveness of any treatments.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound can be used to diagnose septic arthritis, as it can detect any joint effusions, erosions in the bone around the joint, and increased vascularity (blood flow) in the synovium.

• Bone and joint destruction: Septic arthritis can cause inflammation and destruction of the bones and joints, leading to pain, instability and limitation of function.
• Infection spread: Septic arthritis may cause the infection to travel to other parts of the body, such as the bloodstream or other organs.
• Septic shock: In severe cases, septic arthritis can lead to sepsis, a systemic inflammatory response followed by multiple organ dysfunction (mod). This can lead to septic shock, which can be life-threatening.
• Permanent joint damage: If left untreated for long periods of time or if not managed properly, it may result in permanent damage or deformity of the affected joint.

• Apply warm oil (Bala or Ashwagandha) massage to the affected area.
• Consume Golden Milk (Turmeric Milk) made with honey, turmeric and ghee daily.
• Make a paste of rock-salt, dry ginger powder and water and apply on the affected joint area.
• Boil 10-15 garlic pods in half litre water then keep it for cooling overnight, Strain it and consume that water next morning empty stomach for at least one week regularly for better results.
• Consume Tinospora Cordifolia(Guduchi), Ashwagandha, Amla, Indian Gooseberry for treating Septic Arthritis naturally.

• It is important to eat nutrient dense, anti-inflammatory foods while managing septic arthritis.
• Consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
• Eat lean proteins like poultry, fish or tuna to support the body's healing process.
• Focus on hydrating with water or decaffeinated teas throughout the day to support tissue repair and recovery from septic arthritis.

• Avoid processed, refined and high-sodium foods such as canned soups, salted snack foods, cured meats and cheeses.
• Limit sugary treats such as cakes, cookies, and candy.
• Avoid eating processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meat.
• Eliminate fried foods such as French fries and fast-food burgers.

• Drainage of the joint: Surgical drainage may be needed if antibiotics fail to improve symptoms after 48 hours.
• Joint immobilisation: Immobilization can help provide stability and reduce pain as the joint heals.
• Rehabilitation: Increase your mobility, strength, and range of motion in the damaged joint by working with a physical therapist (s).
• Pain relief: Pain relievers may help reduce pain and inflammation in impacted joints.
• Total joint replacement: It is recommended in cases where the joint has been irreparably damaged by septic arthritis.
• Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy may be performed to clean out any remaining septic material, damaged tissue, or debris from the affected areas.
• Synovectomy: It may be necessary in cases where there are significant amounts of infection-causing bacteria present in the synovial lining of the joint or if it has caused thickening and damage to the surrounding structures.

A doctor specialised in treating musculoskeletal problems, such as an Orthopaedic Surgeon, would be the most appropriate medical professional to consult for septic arthritis.

• Antimicrobial drugs: Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as cefazolin, vancomycin, and clindamycin are commonly used in the treatment of septic arthritis.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are often provided for the purpose of reducing inflammation. Examples include ibuprofen and diclofenac.
• Corticosteroids: These may also be used to reduce swelling and pain.

The time it takes to recover from septic arthritis depends on a number of factors, including the severity and type of infection, the underlying cause, and the patient's response to treatment. Generally, recovery may take several weeks, possibly months in more severe cases.

No, the effects of septic arthritis treatment are not long-lasting.

Septic arthritis is caused by infection in the joint, and although antibiotics and other therapies often cure symptoms, the infection may reoccur if not carefully controlled.

Regular monitoring and maintenance of healthy lifestyle practices can help to control any potential recurrence and ensure better long-term outcomes.

Post-treatment guidelines for septic arthritis focus on preventing further infections or complications. These guidelines include:

• Limiting strenuous activity and physical therapy during the recovery period so as to not worsen the joint inflammation.
• Regularly scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor the healing process and detect any signs of infection or new joint damage quickly.
• Anti-inflammatory medications and antibiotics, as prescribed by your doctor, to reduce pain and swelling while fighting off any remaining infection.
• If necessary, use a cane, walker, or other assistance device while walking to avoid extra stress on the joint.
• Taking any medications for fever or discomfort as prescribed by your doctor until all signs of infection have subsided completely.

Septic Arthritis treatment in India can be costly, depending on factors such as the type of treatment, medications required and the severity of the case.

Generally, treatments may include: antibiotic injections or tablets, drainage of the joint (if necessary), physical therapy, surgery to repair joint damage and medications to reduce pain and swelling. These treatments cost an average of 10,000-15,000 INR ($135-203 USD).

Common side effects of septic arthritis treatments can include:

• Nausea,
• Diarrhoea,
• Headache,
• Fever,
• Chills, and
• Rash.

Other side effects may include joint swelling and pain at the affected site as well as severe fatigue.

Joint stiffness and immobility may also occur due to muscle wasting and tissue damage caused by the infection.

Long term use of antibiotics may lead to adverse reactions such as antibiotic-associated colitis or damage to the kidneys or liver.

If you have any symptoms of septic arthritis, you should see a doctor right away because they can lead to complications such as 'bone and joint destruction, septic shock, and permanent joint damage,' for which treatment courses can vary from a few months to years based on the extent of the condition.