Avascular Necrosis of the Hip: Causes, Symptoms, and Best Treatment Options at Physio360.
- PHYSIO 360

- Feb 22
- 2 min read

INTRODUCTION:
Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hip, also known as osteonecrosis, is a painful condition where the blood supply to the femoral head (hip joint) is disrupted, leading to bone death and joint deterioration. Without timely intervention, it can progress to severe arthritis and loss of mobility. At Physio360, we specialize in providing comprehensive physiotherapy solutions to manage AVN effectively and improve your quality of life.
Causes of Avascular Necrosis of the Hip.
AVN can develop due to various factors, including:
Trauma or fractures – Hip dislocations or fractures can damage blood vessels supplying the femoral head.
Long-term corticosteroid use – Prolonged steroid intake can increase fat buildup in blood vessels, restricting circulation.
Excessive alcohol consumption – Alcohol interferes with blood supply and weakens bone structure.
Medical conditions – Diseases like sickle cell anaemia, lupus, and clotting disorders increase AVN risk.
Idiopathic (unknown causes) – In some cases, the cause remains unidentified.

Symptoms of Hip AVN.
Early detection is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
Hip pain and stiffness that worsens with activity.
Limited range of motion, making movements like walking or sitting difficult.
Pain radiating to the thigh or groin, even at rest.
Clicking or grinding sensations due to joint damage.
How Physio360 Can Help Manage Avascular Necrosis?
While advanced cases may require surgery, conservative management through physiotherapy can help slow down disease progression and improve function.
1. Pain Management & Mobility Improvement.
Manual Therapy: Techniques like joint mobilization reduce stiffness and enhance mobility.
Electrotherapy: Modalities like ultrasound and TENS help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Strengthening & Weight Management.
Targeted Exercise Therapy: Strengthening hip and core muscles reduces joint stress.
Aquatic Therapy: Low-impact water exercises improve mobility without adding strain.
Weight Management Programs: Reducing excess weight minimizes hip joint pressure.
3. Lifestyle Modifications & Assistive Devices.
Gait Training: Proper walking techniques with crutches or a cane prevent further damage.
Postural Corrections: Ensuring proper hip alignment to avoid complications.

When to Seek Professional Help?
If you experience persistent hip pain, stiffness, or mobility issues, consulting a specialist at Physio360 is essential. Early intervention can delay progression and reduce the need for surgical interventions like hip replacement.
Conclusion.
Avascular necrosis of the hip can be debilitating, but with the right physiotherapy approach at Physio360, you can manage symptoms effectively and maintain an active lifestyle. Don't let hip pain control your life—schedule a consultation with Physio360 today for expert care and personalized treatment plans.
REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;
1.Hip survival rate in the patients with avascular necrosis of femoral head after transtrochanteric rotational osteotomy: a systematic review and meta-analysishttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6964954/.
2.Long-term outcome of patients with avascular necrosis, after internal fixation of femoral neck fractureshttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12832180/.




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