Symptoms Of Osteomyelitis To Watch For

Reduced Range Of Motion

Osteomyelitis can also cause a patient to have a reduced range of motion, especially in the area of infection. Bones can feel 'tight' or 'locked,' limiting movement. Everyday tasks and normal activities can become challenging, requiring more energy and exertion and potentially causing pain in the process. It is not uncommon for patients with osteomyelitis to develop a limp or otherwise altered gait in response to the bone infection. If the condition affects the back, twisting and bending can become quite a struggle. When the arms are impacted, reaching, holding, and grabbing abilities can also be altered. This can put patients at a greater risk of falling or incurring other injuries.

Tender And Red Infected Area

Patients who suspect osteomyelitis may also notice their skin becoming tender and red around the infection. The bones can feel weak, fragile, and flimsy, but the tissues, muscle, and skin can also show signs of infection. Tenderness can range from mild discomfort to impairing one's movement, while redness can be bright and obvious as well as light and pink. It is typically the legs, arms, ankles, feet, and hands that undergo a color change as a result of osteomyelitis, but other parts of the body can also show this symptom. It's important to monitor the appearance of the skin, particularly after an injury, trauma, or surgical procedure.