3. Septic Arthritis
In some cases, a person with a staph infection may develop septic arthritis. This condition will most often affect the knees but also can affect the shoulders, hips, ankles, elbows, or the spine. Swelling and pain in the joints that are affected are common signs of septic arthritis. In some cases, a fever may develop. Septic arthritis can cause permanent damage to the bones and in some extreme cases, the limb may be lost.
A person may have arthritis and not have a staph infection. This is a different type of arthritis that develops because the cushion between the joints becomes thinner, causing the joints to rub together. If you are experiencing pain in the joints there are some medications that can help to alleviate this pain. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor in order to determine the best form of treatment.