Hip pain can be life-limiting, especially when it affects daily movements like walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting comfortably. One of the common yet lesser-known causes of severe hip pain is Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hip joint. In India, cases of AVN hip joint are steadily increasing, often due to lifestyle changes, trauma, steroid usage, or excessive alcohol consumption. If left untreated, AVN can lead to complete joint collapse, making timely hip pain treatment extremely important.

In this blog, we’ll explore what AVN hip joint is, why it happens, how it’s diagnosed, and the various treatment options available - with a focus on practical solutions suited for Indian patients.

What is AVN of the Hip Joint?

Avascular Necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition where the blood supply to the head of the femur (hip bone) is disrupted. When bone cells don’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients, they gradually die, weakening the hip joint. Over time, the joint surface collapses, causing stiffness, reduced mobility, and severe pain.

AVN usually affects people between the ages of 20 to 50 years, which means it strikes at a productive stage of life. In India, many patients delay seeking treatment for hip pain, mistaking it for regular arthritis or strain, only to realize later that it’s AVN. Early diagnosis and timely hip pain treatment can save patients from major surgeries.

Causes and Risk Factors of AVN

There are multiple reasons why AVN may develop, including:

• Injury or Trauma: Fractures or dislocations around the hip can cut off blood flow.
• Steroid Use: Long-term or high-dose steroid use, often for asthma, autoimmune disorders, or COVID-19 treatment, has been linked to AVN.
• Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake increases fat in the blood vessels, restricting blood supply to the bone.
• Medical Conditions: Sickle cell anemia, lupus, or blood clotting disorders can contribute to AVN.

In India, misuse of steroids and lifestyle-related risk factors like alcohol intake are among the top contributors to AVN cases.

Symptoms of AVN Hip Joint

The symptoms of AVN may start subtly but worsen over time. Common warning signs include:

• Dull ache or throbbing pain in the hip or groin
• Pain that worsens with walking or weight-bearing activities
• Stiffness and reduced hip movement
• Limping due to imbalance
• Pain at rest in advanced stages