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Septic Facet Arthritis Symptoms

Septic facet arthritis, also known as infectious arthritis of spinal joints, can be caused by certain bacteria and fungi. This type of arthritis generally only affects one joint, usually in the spine in the cases of facet arthritis. While the symptoms are somewhat similar to general arthritis there are significant signs to look for.

  1. Abnormal Body Temperatures

    • Fever and/or chills are a symptom of septic facet arthritis. Chills are often accompanied by shaking. Fever can be diagnosed when the body temperature reaches or surpasses a measurement of 99.5 °F.

    Severe Pain

    • Localized pain is usually the key indicator of septic facet arthritis. This pain is usually felt in the center of the lower back, sometimes spreading into one or both buttocks. It is rare, but in some cases the pain spreads all the way into the thighs and below the knee, which is even rarer. Pain increases with abnormal movement of the spine.

    Stiffness

    • Facet arthritis pain is generally accompanied by stiffness of the spine and limited mobility. The affected joints are usually stiffest in the morning or after a nap or long resting period. The most painful stiffness is usually experienced when the patient tries to lean forward or backward, even slightly.

    Nerve Irritation

    • Sometimes arthritis can cause bone spurs, and when this occurs in a case of facet arthritis the bone spurs may interfere with nerves in the spinal canal. The nerves then become inflamed and irritated causing noticeable symptoms where the nerve travels, including numbness, tingling, slow reflexes and weak muscles.

    Warmth and Swelling

    • Warmth and swelling of the affected joints are two other symptoms of septic facet arthritis and generally accompany each other. The swelling is usually both felt by the patient and physically noticeable. Warmth of the affected area can be felt on the inside and outside of the body.

    Considerations

    • Symptoms of any type of septic arthritis usually come on rather quickly whereas recurrent joint pain is more often than not a sign of a more serious condition like rheumatoid arthritis.

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