What Is Osteomyelitis?

Osteomyelitis is an infection that reaches the bone—often from a chronic ulcer, a puncture wound, or spread from nearby soft tissue. People with diabetes, neuropathy, poor circulation, or a recent surgery or trauma are at higher risk. Bone infections heal more slowly and require prompt, targeted treatment to prevent long-term damage.

Common Signs & Symptoms

• Redness, warmth, swelling, or increasing pain
• Drainage, foul odor, or an opening that probes deep
• Fever, chills, or feeling unwell (not always present)
• Visible or palpable bone in a wound
• History of puncture through a shoe, recent surgery, or chronic ulcers

How We Evaluate Infections

• History & Exam: Depth, drainage, odor, surrounding skin, and probing to assess bone involvement.
• Imaging: X-rays to screen for bone changes; advanced imaging (often MRI via referral) to define the extent when indicated.
• Labs & Cultures: Blood work (e.g., inflammatory markers) and targeted cultures to guide antibiotic choice.
• Circulation Check: Screening for arterial disease to ensure safe, effective healing.
• Risk Review: Footwear, pressure points, and glucose control factors that impact recovery.

Treatment Plan Tailored to You

1. Debridement: Removing infected or non-viable tissue to reduce bacterial load and stimulate healing.
2. Targeted Antibiotics: Topical, oral, or IV therapy based on severity and culture results—often coordinated with infectious disease specialists.
3. Offloading & Protection: Boots, casts, padding, or orthotic solutions to take pressure off the site.
4. Wound Care: Evidence-based dressings and regular follow-up for moisture balance and protection.
5. Surgical Management (when necessary): Procedures to remove infected bone or address abscesses if conservative care is insufficient.
6. Prevention: Foot checks, skin care, footwear guidance, glucose optimization, and maintenance visits to prevent recurrence.

Home Care & Prevention Tips

• Follow your dressing change schedule exactly—keep dressings clean and dry.
• Use offloading devices as directed; avoid unnecessary pressure on the site.
• Check feet daily for new redness, swelling, or drainage—especially if you have neuropathy.
• Maintain good hydration and nutrition; avoid smoking or vaping.
• Monitor glucose closely if you have diabetes and take medications as prescribed.