Does avascular necrosis of the hip cause hip pain?

Avascular necrosis occurs when reduced blood supply affects the bone in the hip joint. As the bone becomes stressed, pain may develop deep in the groin, buttock, or front of the thigh. Some people first notice discomfort during walking, stairs, or standing, while others feel aching at rest. Hip movement can become limited, especially when turning the leg or putting on shoes. Hip pain has many possible causes, so this symptom alone cannot identify avascular necrosis. A clinician may combine an examination with imaging to understand the joint and the bone.

Arrange a medical assessment if hip pain persists, changes your walking, or makes ordinary activities harder. Tell the clinician when the pain began, where it is located, and whether it occurs with activity or at rest. Until you are assessed, reduce activities that sharply increase pain and use support if walking feels unstable. Do not force painful hip movements. Evaluation may include checking strength and range of motion and deciding whether imaging is appropriate; the plan depends on the stage of the condition and your symptoms.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden severe hip pain after an injury, inability to stand or bear weight, a visibly shortened or rotated leg, fever with a hot or swollen joint, or new weakness or numbness. These signs can indicate an injury or another problem needing prompt attention. If pain steadily worsens or begins occurring at rest, book an appointment soon even without an urgent warning sign.

Ask what findings could explain the pain, whether imaging is needed, which activities should be modified, and how to protect mobility while the cause is clarified. You can also ask how follow-up will be arranged and which changes should prompt an earlier review.