LOWER EXTREMITY INFECTION
Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma treats a variety of infections in the lower extremities. These infections begin in the soft tissues (skin, fat and muscles) and can range from minor cellulitis to something more life-threatening. It’s important for any soft tissue infection, regardless of the severity, to be evaluated by a medical specialist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment help minimize more significant complications.
Causes
Lower extremity infections range from mild to severe and are primarily due to bacteria entering the skin and subcutaneous tissues (just below the skin) through a crack in the skin. Underlying diseases may also increase the risk of developing infections or experiencing recurring infections, like diabetes or an autoimmune disease.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of less severe cellulitis infections include:
- Redness and warmth of the affected area
- Swelling
- Pain
Symptoms of a more serious cellulitis infection include:
- Extreme pain
- Fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Loss of skin over the area
- Red lines streaking from the affected area (indicating the infection has moved into the lymph system)
Treatments
The Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma offers diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including lower extremity infections. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and athletic trainers are committed to helping patients find relief and return to the highest level of activity possible.
When symptoms of a lower extremity infection are less severe, conservative treatment options, like oral antibiotics, may be prescribed. In more severe infections, IV antibiotics, diagnostic testing, cultures may be recommended. If there is a concern that the infection has moved into deeper tissues, an MRI scan may be requested.
To schedule an appointment, call us at (405) 418-4500.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of less severe cellulitis infections include:
- Redness and warmth of the affected area
- Swelling
- Pain
Symptoms of a more serious cellulitis infection include:
- Extreme pain
- Fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Loss of skin over the area
- Red lines streaking from the affected area (indicating the infection has moved into the lymph system)
Treatments
The Foot and Ankle Surgeons of Oklahoma offers diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic injuries and conditions, including lower extremity infections. Our team of orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and athletic trainers are committed to helping patients find relief and return to the highest level of activity possible.
When symptoms of a lower extremity infection are less severe, conservative treatment options, like oral antibiotics, may be prescribed. In more severe infections, IV antibiotics, diagnostic testing, cultures may be recommended. If there is a concern that the infection has moved into deeper tissues, an MRI scan may be requested.
To schedule an appointment, call us at (405) 418-4500.
Give us a call or fill out the form to schedule your appointment.
Meet Our Staff
Our foot and ankle surgeons have extensive training in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of foot and ankle disorders. Let us help you get moving again.
