What is Osteonecrosis?

21 Jun What is Osteonecrosis?

Osteonecrosis – Orthopedist in Nassau County

Osteonecrosis is a bone disease that causes severe pain and disability. This bone disease refers to the death of bone cells as a result of limited blood flow. Without proper circulation, these cells and tissue die causing infection and bone breaks. Loss of blood supply to the bone can occur from certain medicines or medical treatments you are undergoing such as chemotherapy, radiation, or organ transplants. It can also be a result of certain medical conditions you are living with such as cancer, lupus, HIV/AIDS, sickle cell disease, or more. In some cases, loss of blood flow can also be caused by alcohol or injury. An orthopedist in Wantagh like Dr. Stanislav Avshalumov can make sure that you get the right help you need with early diagnosis and treatment. Osteonecrosis can occur in almost any bone if there is an obstruction of blood flow however it most commonly affects the hips, knees, shoulders, ankles, femur, and humerus.

Symptoms

Although difficult to detect at its early stages, osteonecrosis has some symptoms as it progresses. These symptoms include:

• Pain in your joints that increase over time and becomes more severe
• Limited range of motion
• Difficulty walking
• Pain that occurs when you are resting

An orthopedist in Wantagh will conduct a full examination and may order a variety of tests including x-rays and bone scans in order to provide an accurate diagnosis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms contact Advanced Orthopedics & Joint Preservation so that we can provide you with a personalized treatment plan.

Who is at risk?

Anyone can get osteonecrosis, however, it is typically more common in men and people aged between 30-50 years of age.

Treatment Options

Several treatment options may be suggested based on the severity of your osteonecrosis. Options include:

• Surgery – Common surgical procedures for osteonecrosis include conducting a bone graft, taking a piece of healthy bone and moving it to the dying bone, changing the alignment of the bone, total joint replacement, or removing some parts of the inside of the bone, known as core decompression to relieve pain and increase blood flow.
• Rest
• Range-of-motion exercises
• Medication

If you are experiencing pain that is debilitating towards your everyday life, our orthopedist in Wantagh can help you by offering many treatment options to help prevent further progression of your osteonecrosis. Our goal is to alleviate pain, improve functionality, and saving as much of your natural bone as possible. Contact us today to take the right steps towards treatment!