Septic arthritis is a joint infection that is caused by a bacterial or viral infection that progresses to the joint or the fluid surrounding it, which is known as synovial fluid. This infection normally starts elsewhere on the body and progresses to the joint tissue through the blood.
Continue reading to get acquainted with the common procedures followed for septic arthritis treatment.
Antibiotics
Doctors often administer antibiotics immediately when they diagnose septic arthritis since the problem can become serious. This could happen even before joint fluid testing which is undertaken to discover the organism causing the infection. Antibiotics are often given directly into a person’s bloodstream during the first phase of treatment for a bacterial illness.
The symptoms of the condition may subside within 2 days if the medications are successful. Depending on the extent of the disease, a person may require intravenous (IV) antibiotics for 2–4 weeks. Doctors often can allow for IV antibiotics to be administered at home. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for the next 2–6 weeks after the IV antibiotics.
Synovial Fluid Drainage
The synovial fluid of many persons with septic arthritis needs to be flushed. This is intended to drain the infected fluid, relieve pain, reduce swelling, and protect the joint from future harm. Synovial fluid is frequently drained using arthroscopy, although it can also be done via open surgery.
Your doctor can make numerous small cuts near the afflicted joint during arthroscopy. Then a tiny tube holding a camera will be inserted into the incision and your doctor will drain the contaminated fluid from your joint using the camera image as a guide. To prevent the joint from swelling again, a tube is often implanted and kept in the joint. After a few days, the drain will be removed.
Antiviral And Antifungal Medications
The majority of viral arthritis causes are self-limiting, that is, it will go away on its own. In some cases, such as when the hepatitis C virus is present, doctors usually recommend antiviral drugs. Antifungal medications are used instead of antibiotics when a form of fungus is to blame for the infection.
Exercises
Physical therapy may be used to help people suffering from septic arthritis lessen their symptoms and reduce long-term consequences. Wearing a brace to support the afflicted joint may also be recommended by your doctor. It is critical for anyone wearing a brace to practice range-of-motion exercises to keep the joint muscles from shrinking. The brace should not be worn all of the time.
