Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) of the Hip

Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis) of the Hip

Avascular necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition in which the bone in the head of your femur weakens and begins to collapse. The femoral head is the “ball” of the hip joint that fits into the socket. When this bone loses its blood supply, it gradually dies and breaks down, leading to hip pain and the potential development of arthritis.

What Is Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Avascular necrosis occurs when there is a loss of blood flow to the femoral head. Bone is living tissue that relies on a healthy circulation system to stay strong and repair itself. When blood flow is disrupted or reduced, bone cells die. Over time, this can cause the surface of the femoral head to collapse, affecting the smooth movement of the hip joint.

What Causes Avascular Necrosis?

The most common cause of avascular necrosis is interruption of blood circulation to the femoral head. This can result from:

• A traumatic hip injury, such as a fracture or dislocation
• Long-term alcohol use
• Certain medications, including high-dose steroids
• Medical conditions that affect blood vessels or circulation

When the bone does not receive enough blood, it becomes weak and begins to deteriorate.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of avascular necrosis may develop gradually. Early on, you may not notice any discomfort. As the condition progresses, you may experience:

• Pain in the hip or buttock
• Pain that worsens during physical activity
• Pain when standing or putting weight on the affected hip
• Pain that may occur even at rest or while lying down

Without treatment, symptoms typically worsen as the bone continues to collapse.

Non-Surgical Treatment

In the early stages, conservative treatment may help manage symptoms and slow progression. These options include:

• Medications for pain and inflammation
• Rest and limiting weight-bearing activity
• Physical therapy to maintain strength and mobility

While these methods can help ease discomfort, they cannot restore lost blood flow to the bone. Many patients eventually require surgical treatment.

Benton A. Emblom, MD

Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon who specializes in hip preservation, including the diagnosis and treatment of avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) of the hip. Dr. Emblom has extensive experience caring for competitive athletes and active individuals who rely on advanced hip care to maintain performance and mobility.

Dr. Emblom serves as a head team orthopaedic physician for Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Hoover High School, and several other local high schools. His expertise in hip preservation allows him to offer a wide range of treatment options, from early-stage, joint-preserving procedures to more complex surgical solutions when necessary.

If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of avascular necrosis or another hip condition, and would like to request an appointment with Dr. Emblom, call (205) 939-3699 and ask to speak with Dr. Emblom’s appointment scheduler.

To request an appointment online, CLICK HERE or contact Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center at (205) 939-3699 for assistance.