Osteomyelitis Causes & Risks

Causes

This infection can occur as a result of an injury to the bone, or an infection in the body carried by the blood.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance of osteomyelitis include:

Age: young children and older adults
Sex: male
Trauma or injury to the bone and skin
Broken bones, especially if open to or sticking through the skin
Diabetes mellitus
Kidney dialysis
Intravenous drug abuse
Weakened immune system
Poor circulation
Sickle cell anemia
After any operation on a joint or bone, such as a hip replacement or internal fixation of a fracture

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2025 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.