Avascular Necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, occurs when the blood flow to a bone is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue. As the bone tissue dies, it can cause the bone to collapse, leading to joint pain, limited movement, and long-term disability. AVN most commonly affects the hip joint, but it can also occur in the shoulder, knee, ankle, and other joints.

The condition can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Trauma or injury, such as fractures that damage blood vessels
• Excessive alcohol use, which can interfere with blood circulation
• Steroid use, especially long-term or high-dose steroids
• Underlying health conditions, such as lupus, sickle cell disease, or rheumatoid arthritis
• Poor blood circulation or vascular diseases

The early stages of AVN may not show obvious symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, individuals may experience:

• Joint pain, which may start as mild and gradually become more severe
• Stiffness and limited range of motion in the affected joint
• Pain with movement or weight-bearing activities
• Swelling around the affected joint
• Difficulty walking or performing daily tasks due to pain and joint dysfunction

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, early intervention is key to managing AVN and preventing further joint damage.