Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Treatment in Northern Indiana

What is Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Avascular necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition that occurs when the blood supply to the hip joint is disrupted, causing the bone tissue to break down and leading to joint damage. This can result in pain, limited mobility, and deterioration of the hip joint over time.

avascular necrosis of the hip

What are the Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis in the Hip?

Recognizing the symptoms is essential for seeking timely care and treatment. Common signs to be aware of include:

  • Hip pain - Dull or sharp pain in the hip joint that may worsen with activity
  • Groin pain - Discomfort in the groin area, often radiating to the thigh
  • Limited range of motion - Difficulty moving the hip joint, especially during walking or bending
  • Stiffness - The hip may feel stiff and resistant to movement
  • Pain with weight-bearing - Pain that worsens when putting weight on the affected hip
  • Limping - A noticeable change in gait or walking pattern to avoid hip pain

What Causes Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Understanding the causes of avascular necrosis of the hip is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. This condition develops when the blood supply to the hip joint is compromised, leading to the deterioration of bone tissue.

Common factors contributing to avascular necrosis include:

  • Trauma - Injury to the hip, such as fractures or dislocations, can disrupt blood flow
  • Medical conditions - Conditions like sickle cell anemia, lupus, and certain clotting disorders can increase the risk
  • Excessive alcohol use - Heavy alcohol consumption can affect blood circulation to the bones
  • Steroid medication - Prolonged use of corticosteroids can impair blood flow to the hip joint
  • Medical treatments - Certain medical procedures, like radiation therapy or organ transplantation, can increase the risk

What is the Treatment for Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Effective treatment for avascular necrosis of the hip is crucial for preserving hip joint function and alleviating pain. Depending on the severity and stage of avascular necrosis, treatment may involve:

  • Medications - Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage discomfort
  • Physical therapy - Targeted exercises to improve hip joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles
  • Protected weight-bearing - Limiting weight on the affected hip to reduce stress on the joint
  • Core decompression - Removing a small portion of bone to improve blood flow to the hip
  • Bone grafting - Transplanting healthy bone tissue to encourage new bone growth
  • Joint replacement - In advanced cases, partial or total hip replacement surgery may be recommended

Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Care in Michiana

Discover specialized care for avascular necrosis of the hip at OSMC, your trusted orthopedic partner in Michiana. If you’re dealing with the challenges of this condition, our experienced orthopedic specialists are here to provide expert evaluation and personalized treatment solutions.

For more information, give us a call or schedule an appointment online with one of our hip specialists. Our orthopedic clinic has multiple locations, where we serve patients in Elkhart, IN, Goshen, IN, Granger, IN, Middlebury, IN, and Nappanee, IN. We also have two walk-in orthopedic clinics.