How Does Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Impact Daily Life?

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip can affect physical health as much as it can interfere with everyday activities, mobility, and overall quality of life. As AVN progresses, simple movements — like standing up, walking, or even resting comfortably — can become increasingly difficult due to pain and joint dysfunction. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic specialist Dr. Christopher Williams offers advanced treatments to help patients manage AVN symptoms, slow disease progression, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Understanding how hip necrosis impacts daily life and knowing when to seek treatment for necrosis of the hip can be essential to preserving hip function and preventing long-term joint damage. Keep reading for more information on the side effects of avascular hip necrosis and guidance on which treatments and procedures may be effective for managing AVN and restoring the comfort and mobility you deserve.

How does AVN make life harder?

AVN occurs when blood flow to the femoral head — referring to the "ball" portion of the hip joint — is reduced or blocked. Without proper circulation, bone tissue weakens and begins to break down, causing increasing discomfort and reduced mobility. Many people with avascular necrosis of the hip tend to struggle with:

Pain while walking
Limited range of motion
Pain at rest
Difficulty with daily activities, including dressing, driving, and walking

Does hip necrosis get worse without treatment?

Without treatment, AVN continues to progress, leading to further bone deterioration and joint instability. As the femoral head weakens, it may collapse, causing arthritis and joint damage. This can result in a variety of serious complications, including:

Chronic pain that limits independence
Increased difficulty with mobility and balance
A greater likelihood of needing hip replacement surgery

Seeking treatment for AVN as soon as symptoms appear can help slow AVN progression and preserve hip function for as long as possible.

What treatments can help with hip necrosis symptoms?

At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, Dr. Williams provides a range of treatments to help relieve pain and improve mobility for patients with avascular necrosis of the hip. Depending on the severity of the condition, AVN hip treatment options may include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) to stimulate healing and improve blood flow
Regenerative medicine therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), to support tissue repair
Core decompression to relieve pressure and encourage new bone growth
Bone grafting to reinforce weakened bone structures

For patients in later stages of AVN, where joint damage is severe, surgical intervention such as hip replacement may be necessary to restore mobility and relieve chronic pain.

When should you see a doctor for AVN?

Early intervention is key to slowing the progression of AVN and avoiding more invasive procedures. If you experience persistent hip pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking, it's important to schedule an evaluation as soon as possible. Dr. Williams will perform a thorough assessment, including imaging studies and a medical history review, to determine the best possible course of action tailored to your needs to help you regain your mobility and comfort— and enjoy all that life has to offer once again.

Get avascular hip necrosis treatments from an orthopedic joint specialist in Atlanta, GA

Living with AVN can be frustrating and limiting, but treatment options are available to help you stay active and comfortable. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic specialist Dr. Christopher Williams specializes in advanced, minimally invasive therapies designed to manage AVN and improve joint function. If hip pain is interfering with your daily life, contact us to schedule a consultation to explore treatment options for avascular hip necrosis in Atlanta, GA, and take the next step toward convenient, long-lasting relief.