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Avascular Necrosis
Urgent
Avascular necrosis, also called osteonecrosis, occurs when reduced blood supply causes bone tissue to die. It most often affects the hip but can involve other joints such as the knee, shoulder, or ankle. Early disease may cause no symptoms, while progressive damage can produce persistent pain, stiffness, reduced movement, and eventually collapse of the affected bone or joint surface. The condition may develop gradually and can be associated with injury, certain medicines, medical conditions, or other factors that impair blood flow to bone.
Body System
Bones & Joints
When to Seek Medical Attention
Avascular necrosis requires medical assessment because progressive loss of blood supply can damage bone and eventually impair joint function. Seek prompt care for persistent or worsening joint pain, reduced movement, or difficulty bearing weight. Urgent evaluation is appropriate for sudden severe pain, inability to use the affected limb, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Avascular necrosis, also called osteonecrosis, occurs when reduced blood supply causes bone tissue to die. It most often affects the hip but can involve other joints such as the knee, shoulder, or ankle. Early disease may cause no symptoms, while progressive damage can produce persistent pain, stiffness, reduced movement, and eventually collapse of the affected bone or joint surface. The condition may develop gradually and can be associated with injury, certain medicines, medical conditions, or other factors that impair blood flow to bone.
Symptoms 3
Back Pain
Bone Pain
Increased Thirst
Causes 2
Avascular necrosis develops when the blood supply to a portion of bone is reduced or interrupted for a prolonged period. Without adequate oxygen and nutrients, bone cells can die and the affected area may gradually weaken and collapse. Causes include traumatic injury that damages blood vessels, prolonged or high-dose corticosteroid exposure, heavy alcohol use, and certain medical conditions affecting blood vessels or blood clotting. In some people, no definite cause is identified and the condition is considered idiopathic.
Alcohol
Chronic Disease
Risk Factors
Risk factors include prolonged or high-dose corticosteroid use, heavy alcohol consumption, previous fractures or joint trauma, and certain medical conditions affecting blood vessels or blood clotting. Associations have also been reported with disorders such as sickle cell disease, lupus, certain metabolic disorders, and some organ-transplant or cancer-related conditions. The risk varies according to the underlying cause, duration of exposure, and the location and extent of impaired blood supply.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, medical history, and imaging of the affected bone. X-rays may appear normal in early disease, while magnetic resonance imaging can detect changes at an earlier stage. Additional imaging may help determine the extent of bone damage or joint collapse. Blood tests and other investigations may be used to identify an underlying condition or contributing cause, particularly when disease occurs at an unusual age or without an obvious risk factor.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Some cases of avascular necrosis cannot be prevented, particularly when an underlying medical condition is responsible
Risk may be reduced by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, using corticosteroids only as medically indicated, and discussing long-term corticosteroid exposure with a healthcare professional
Prompt assessment after significant joint or bone injury may be appropriate
People with medical disorders associated with osteonecrosis may benefit from appropriate management and monitoring for complications
Prevention Guidance
Some cases of avascular necrosis cannot be prevented, particularly when an underlying medical condition is responsible. Risk may be reduced by avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, using corticosteroids only as medically indicated, and discussing long-term corticosteroid exposure with a healthcare professional. Prompt assessment after significant joint or bone injury may be appropriate. People with medical disorders associated with osteonecrosis may benefit from appropriate management and monitoring for complications.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Calcium-rich Foods
Support bone health
Vitamin D Foods
Support bones
Protein-rich Foods
Support tissue repair
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May worsen disease
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Bone damage caused by reduced blood supply.
The hip joint is commonly affected.
Trauma, steroids, and alcohol use are common causes.
Yes, untreated cases may worsen over time.
Advanced cases may require surgery.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.