What should you know about most common cause of osteomyelitis?

An infection can spread from a skin or soft-tissue wound into adjacent bone. It can also travel in the blood from another infected area, or enter directly when a fracture exposes bone or a procedure disrupts the protective skin barrier. Reduced blood flow or a wound that heals poorly can make local defence and healing more difficult.

Pain, warmth, swelling, fever, or reduced use of a limb may occur, but symptoms vary with the location and timing. Examination and testing are needed to distinguish bone infection from other causes of pain.

Contact a clinician promptly if pain is persistent, a wound is slow to close, or there is drainage near bone. Assessment may include imaging, blood tests, and a sample when needed to guide treatment. Care can involve antimicrobial medicine, wound management, and treatment of damaged tissue. [Bone Grafting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/bone-grafting/) may be discussed when bone has lost support after infection or injury.

Follow wound instructions carefully and do not share or save leftover antibiotics. The correct medicine and treatment length depend on the organism, affected bone, and whether an operation is required.

Seek urgent medical care for fever with worsening limb pain, rapidly spreading redness, new pus, severe swelling, or inability to bear weight. Emergency help is appropriate if you feel faint, confused, or seriously unwell. An open injury with visible bone needs immediate assessment.

Ask how the infection may have reached the bone, which tests can confirm it, whether a culture is needed, how the wound should be protected, and what changes mean treatment is working or needs adjustment.