What Is the First Treatment for Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Avascular necrosis means that reduced blood supply has damaged bone in the femoral head, the ball of the hip joint. Early disease may not have caused collapse, while later disease can change the shape of the joint and produce pain, stiffness and difficulty walking. Imaging helps the orthopaedic team judge the extent of damage and choose a plan.

Reducing load on the hip may ease symptoms and limit stress on vulnerable bone, but it does not restore blood flow by itself. Pain relief and treatment of contributing factors are considered alongside the imaging findings.

Use a walking aid if your clinician recommends one, and avoid impact activities that increase hip pain. Do not increase weight-bearing simply because symptoms temporarily settle. Physiotherapy can preserve comfortable hip movement, maintain surrounding muscle strength and teach safer ways to move without overloading the joint.

If the bone has not collapsed, the specialist may discuss an operation intended to protect the joint, such as Osteotomy, in selected situations. If joint damage is advanced, Total Hip Replacement may be considered. These options depend on imaging, age, activity needs and overall health.

Arrange prompt orthopaedic review for worsening groin or hip pain, a new limp, reduced ability to bear weight, or night pain that is becoming persistent. Seek urgent help after a fall if you cannot stand or walk, or if the leg appears shortened or rotated. Sudden severe pain also warrants assessment because it may signal structural change or another hip problem.

Ask what the imaging shows, how much weight you may place through the leg, and whether a walking aid is appropriate. Ask which activities are safe, what the treatment goal is, and how soon you should repeat assessment.