Hypothesis # 3

Osteomyelitis: Local Infection

Elevated respiratory rate.
Slightly elevated temperature.
Soft tissue swelling (pitting edema).

Entry of bacteria into capsular and/or joint space.  Localized inflammatory response 
ensues, initiated by increased fluid extravasation from surrounding blood vessels, as well 
as increased inflammatory cell populations.  Increased pressure on surrounding tissue and 
structures results in decreased function, and increased pain.