Not all hip pain comes from arthritis. If you are struggling with discomfort in your hip that does not seem to have a clear cause, avascular necrosis might be the reason. This lesser-known condition can quietly damage your hip joint over time, often without obvious symptoms in the early stages.
Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in New York, NY, and Stamford, CT, helps diagnose and treat conditions like avascular necrosis (AVN) in adults.
Understanding Avascular Necrosis of the Hip
Avascular necrosis, sometimes called osteonecrosis or “hip bone death,” occurs when the femoral head (the ball of your hip joint) doesn’t get the blood supply it needs. As the bone tissue dies, the hip’s structure weakens.
Left untreated, this can lead to the collapse of the femoral head and severe joint damage. AVN often progresses slowly, so early diagnosis is important.
What Causes AVN of the Hip?
There are several possible reasons why avascular necrosis develops:
- In some people, it follows an injury like a fracture or hip dislocation.
- Long-term use of corticosteroid medications and heavy alcohol consumption are also known risk factors.
- Certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell disease or lupus, can increase the risk.
However, in many cases, doctors do not find a specific cause. This is referred to as “idiopathic AVN.”
Symptoms and Stages of AVN
In its early stages, avascular necrosis often causes little to no pain, making it easy to overlook. As the condition progresses, most people feel a deep, aching pain in the groin, front of the hip, or outer thigh. This discomfort usually worsens with walking, standing, or other weight-bearing activities.
As more of the bone weakens, movement can become stiff and limited. The femoral head may lose its shape over time and collapse, leading to severe joint damage. AVN typically develops in stages, starting with minor bone changes and progressing to joint breakdown if untreated.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how advanced the condition is. Early stages may be managed with rest, physical therapy, or medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
In more severe cases, surgical procedures like core decompression or bone grafting may help. If the femoral head collapses, hip replacement surgery is typically recommended.
Find Out What’s Causing Your Hip Pain
For expert evaluation of unexplained hip pain, schedule an appointment today. Call Dr. McLawhorn’s office in New York at 212-606-1065 or in Stamford at 203-705-2113.
