Infections

About

Infections

What are Bone and Joint Infections?

Orthopedic infections occur when bacteria, viruses, or fungi invade the bones or joints. These conditions are serious and require prompt treatment to prevent long-term damage.

Examples include osteomyelitis (bone infection) and septic arthritis (joint infection).

Are Bone and Joint Infections serious?

Yes, they can rapidly destroy bone and cartilage if untreated.

Causes

Infections may occur due to:

  • Bloodstream infections that spread to bone or joints
  • Open wounds or fractures
  • Recent surgeries or implants
  • Poor immunity
  • Chronic conditions like diabetes

With Insurance

Orthopedics

Your copay
Depending on insurance

Without Insurance

*Price Effective 12/1/2025
$169
Initial Visit
$109
Follow Up

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Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

  • Severe pain at the infected site
  • Swelling and warmth
  • Fever or chills
  • Redness over the area
  • Difficulty using the affected limb
  • Drainage from the site (in open infections)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis includes:

  • Blood tests for infection markers
  • X-rays to detect bone changes
  • MRI or CT scans
  • Joint aspiration (removing fluid to test for infection)
  • Blood cultures

Treatment

Treatment is urgent and may include:

  • Intravenous (IV) antibiotics
  • Oral antibiotics for extended periods
  • Joint drainage or aspiration
  • Surgical cleanup (debridement)
  • Removal of infected implants, if necessary

Early treatment prevents permanent joint or bone damage.

References

  • StatPearls / NCBI Bookshelf — Septic arthritis overview (diagnosis & management). NCBI
  • CDC / Emerging Infectious Diseases & CDC bone-and-joint infection resources (guidance, reports). CDC
  • American Family Physician review — Approach to septic arthritis. 

Medically reviewed by:

Dr. Javeed Siddiqui, MD, MPH

Dr. Siddiqui is the Chief Medical Officer at TeleMed2U responsible for clinical and technical program development as well as maintaining a thriving telemedicine practice in infectious diseases which includes specialized care of Hepatitis and HIV.

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Affordable – with or without insurance

With Insurance

Orthopedics

Your copay
Depending on insurance

Without Insurance

*Price Effective 12/1/2025
$169
Initial Visit
$109
Follow Up