Septic arthritis is a type of joint inflammation that occurs when bacteria infect the fluid capsule surrounding the joint. Also called infectious arthritis, this condition can happen if you have an infection in another part of your body and the bacteria travels through the bloodstream and lodges in one of your joints. It most commonly occurs in the hip, knee or wrists and can be caused by common forms of bacteria, viruses or even fungi. Septic arthritis warrants treatment, and rehabilitation may be necessary if your joint becomes damaged.
Identification
Septic arthritis can occur if you have recently had surgery or another type of infection, so you may still be recovering. People who develop septic arthritis often complain of pain and swelling in the affected joint, as well as fever, chills and weakness. The infected joint may cause the overlying skin to become red and warm. The Mayo Clinic states that septic arthritis must be treated through antibiotics and your doctor may need to drain some of the fluid from the joint using a needle. Physical therapy may be indicated after treatment for septic arthritis to prevent joint stiffness and promote circulation to the area, which can speed the healing process.
Exercises
You may initially begin range of motion exercises through physical therapy as ordered by your physician. Range of motion exercises move your affected joint through its typical movements, which increases blood flow to the muscles surrounding the joint. Following range of motion exercises, you may move into strength training routines, which involve lifting light weights or using resistance machines. Additionally, you may perform aerobic exercise when your doctor prescribes it by engaging in activities such as walking or swimming. If your septic arthritis has affected one of your major joints, you may need to limit weight-bearing activities until you have had several weeks to heal.
Therapy
Your physical therapist may perform other types of therapy while you are healing from septic arthritis. Warm compresses to the affected joint can help to control pain, while cold packs can help to reduce some inflammation. Your physical therapist may alternate between warm and cold packs to provide pain control during the healing process. Rest periods are also necessary for healing from septic arthritis and you may need to wear a sling or elevate your affected joint until your medical treatments have had time to work.
Considerations
It may take several weeks to recover from septic arthritis, depending on the extent of the infection and the amount of treatment needed. Follow your doctor's instructions about performing physical therapy exercises after treatment. If your joint has been damaged, you may be unable to lift heavy objects or perform strength-training exercises for several weeks following treatment.
