Bone Infections
Living with a chronic condition such as diabetes or kidney failure increases your risk of developing a bone infection. At Healing Touch WoundCare, our team of wound care specialists offers advanced, holistic treatments to alleviate the discomfort of bone infections. Schedule an appointment by calling us or booking online today.
Osteomyelitis, or bone infection, is a rare condition that leads to swelling and inflammation in one or more bones. It can occur when an infection travels through the bloodstream or spreads from nearby tissue.
While anyone can develop a bone infection, it is particularly common in smokers and individuals with chronic health conditions. Modern medical advancements have made treating bone infections possible, but surgery is often required.
What Is a Bone Infection?
What Are the Symptoms of a Bone Infection?
The symptoms of a bone infection can vary based on its severity and location. Our team is skilled in accurately diagnosing bone infections. Common signs include:
Fever
Swelling
Redness
Warmth
Pain near the infection site
Fatigue
It's important to note that some individuals may not show any symptoms, especially older adults, infants, and those with weakened immune systems.
When Should I See a Doctor About a Bone Infection?
If you've recently sustained a severe puncture wound or had orthopedic surgery, you may be at higher risk for a bone infection. Should you observe symptoms such as increasing bone pain or a high fever, schedule an appointment with Healing Touch WoundCare as soon as possible.
How is a Bone Infection Diagnosed?
To diagnose a bone infection, the THealing Touch WoundCare team performs a comprehensive physical examination and assesses your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. During the exam, your provider will gently press on the affected bone to check for signs of swelling, tenderness, or warmth.
Following the physical exam, blood tests are ordered. Elevated white blood cell levels can indicate that your body is combating an infection, though blood tests alone cannot diagnose a bone infection. They help guide your provider in determining if further testing, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, is needed. These imaging techniques offer detailed views of your bones, joints, and surrounding soft tissue.
How is a Bone Infection Treated?
Treating a bone infection typically involves surgery. At Healing Touch WoundCare, the procedure involves draining the affected area, removing diseased or dead bone and tissue, and restoring blood flow to the bone.
If you smoke, it's crucial to quit before surgery to minimize the risk of complications. Post-surgery, you will receive IV antibiotics, administered over several weeks, along with a regimen of oral antibiotics to ensure effective treatment.
Why Choose Us?
Our team is one of the few practices to offer specialized care for atypical wounds. Our staff can evaluate your wound to determine if it is atypical and provide comprehensive care solutions. We offer a wide range of therapies that can be used independently or in combination.
Our team of highly-trained providers will also teach you how to properly care for your wound at home. This includes demonstrating how to thoroughly clean the wound, protect healthy skin, and change dressings. If you think you may have an atypical wound, call Healing Touch or book an appointment online today.
