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Bone death from poor blood flow (avascular necrosis)

Also called: Avascular necrosis, osteonecrosis, bone death

Bone tissue dies from poor blood flow, most often in the hip, causing pain that gets worse over time.

RisksSteroids, alcohol, injury
TreatmentRest, surgery, joint replacement

Overview

Bone needs blood to stay alive. When blood flow is cut off, bone can collapse.

Early stages may be treated without joint replacement.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Hip or groin pain

Less common

  • Limp

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todaySudden severe pain.
See a doctor soonOngoing joint pain.

Causes

Poor blood flow to bone.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Long-term steroids
  • Heavy alcohol

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Use crutches if advised

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Adults 30 to 50: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Early treatment can save the joint.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?
  • Do I need a joint replacement?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bone death from poor blood flow (avascular necrosis)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.