What to expect from physiotherapy for avascular necrosis of the hip

A physiotherapist may ask about pain, walking tolerance, work, sleep, and activities that load the hip. They can observe your gait and check hip and nearby joint movement without forcing painful positions. The plan may include gentle range-of-motion work, strength exercises for the hip and trunk, and advice about using a cane or other aid if needed. Avascular necrosis can change how much weight the hip can tolerate, so exercise intensity is adjusted to your symptoms and medical plan.

Use the home exercises exactly as demonstrated and increase activity gradually. Short, comfortable walks or water-based movement may be suitable for some people, while impact activities or deep loaded positions may need to wait. Tell the therapist if pain lingers after exercise, your walking pattern worsens, or an aid feels awkward. Physiotherapy supports function but does not restore damaged bone; keep follow-up with the clinician managing the underlying hip condition.

Contact your care team promptly for rapidly worsening hip or groin pain, new inability to bear weight, a fall, or a sudden major change in walking. Seek urgent help for severe pain after an injury or a leg that becomes markedly swollen, cold, or unusually pale.

Ask which movements and weight-bearing limits fit the current stage of your hip condition, whether you should use a walking aid, and how physiotherapy fits alongside imaging, medication, or surgical discussions.