Limb disuse in a newborn

Osteomyelitis in the neonate is an entity distinct from that in older children. We report a case that had a benign onset, insidious course, and multiple foci of involvement. The unique metaphyseal blood supply of early infancy permitted coexisting septic arthritis. Signs of limb disuse, limitation of motion, and swelling over distal bone or joint space should prompt the emergency physician to entertain the possibility of osteomyelitis. Early diagnosis and intervention on the part of the emergency physician may prevent or alleviate sequelae of this disease.