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Infection On Left Elbow, Puss Formation, Taken Cephalexin And Sulfameth

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Posted on Fri, 8 Jun 2012
Question: So I was diagnosted with a Staph infection in my bursa sac on my left elbow on Saturday and have been on Cephalexin and Sulfameth/ Trimethoprim since. The inflamation in my arm has subsided, my fere is gone, and the puss has slowed down dramatically compared to Sunday and Monday. There is a hole in my arm now and a yellow head sticking out which I am uncertain if I need to have drained as it could be my bursa and it could be the infection itself. What are your thoughts?
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Answered by Dr. Aashish Raghu (21 minutes later)
Hi

Thanks for the query.

Is there any pain or restriction of movement on moving the elbow joint

Usually yellow head is due to possible spread of infection to the skin. If the area around it is red, warm, tense and painful, it will probably require drainage by your Doctor. Do consult your Doctor in such a situation.

Usually due to bursal sac infection there will be pus collection. After antibiotic treatment there will be significant clearance of the infection but there may be some adhesions and debris which can cause contraction of the sac till it heals.

Usually it will take about 1-2 weeks for better resolution. The antibiotic needs to be taken full course as your Doctor has advised. Avoid moving that elbow joint much. Avoid lifting heavy weights. Avoid keeping the elbow on the table as well. If rest is given to the area it will heal faster.

If withing 3 weeks the region is difficult to move, and any deformity you can consult your Orthopaedician for advice.

Eat high protein diet and plenty of fresh fruits and XXXXXXX leafy vegetables. Drink plenty of water. Exercise daily.

I hope I have answered your query. I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Aashish Raghu

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Practicing since :2011

Answered : 5482 Questions

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Infection On Left Elbow, Puss Formation, Taken Cephalexin And Sulfameth

Hi

Thanks for the query.

Is there any pain or restriction of movement on moving the elbow joint

Usually yellow head is due to possible spread of infection to the skin. If the area around it is red, warm, tense and painful, it will probably require drainage by your Doctor. Do consult your Doctor in such a situation.

Usually due to bursal sac infection there will be pus collection. After antibiotic treatment there will be significant clearance of the infection but there may be some adhesions and debris which can cause contraction of the sac till it heals.

Usually it will take about 1-2 weeks for better resolution. The antibiotic needs to be taken full course as your Doctor has advised. Avoid moving that elbow joint much. Avoid lifting heavy weights. Avoid keeping the elbow on the table as well. If rest is given to the area it will heal faster.

If withing 3 weeks the region is difficult to move, and any deformity you can consult your Orthopaedician for advice.

Eat high protein diet and plenty of fresh fruits and XXXXXXX leafy vegetables. Drink plenty of water. Exercise daily.

I hope I have answered your query. I will be available to answer your follow up queries.

Regards,