Bone infections

Bone infections, known medically as osteomyelitis, are painful infections of bone caused most often by bacteria, although fungi and other germs can also be responsible. Anyone can be affected; limb long bones are usually involved in children, whereas the feet, spine and hips are more common sites in adults. Germs reach bone from nearby infected skin or tissue, through the bloodstream, or after injury or bone surgery, and diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor blood supply and haemodialysis add risk. Typical features are bone pain, local swelling, redness and warmth, fever and chills, and a general feeling of being unwell; untreated infection can permanently damage bone. Diagnosis combines examination with blood tests, imaging such as X-ray, CT or MRI, and bone biopsy for culture. Treatment is a prolonged course of antibiotics, with surgery to drain pus or remove dead bone when infection is severe or persistent.

Seek urgent care for a fracture after a minor fall, a hot swollen joint with fever, or sudden severe back pain. See a doctor for joint pain and stiffness lasting more than six weeks, loss of height, or if you have risk factors for weak bones and have never had a bone-density assessment. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.