How do I know if I have Osteonecrosis?

What signs or symptoms may make you suspect you may have Osteonecrosis. People who have experience in Osteonecrosis offer advice of what things may make you suspicious and which doctor you should go to to receive treatment


Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition that occurs when there is a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to a bone, leading to bone cell death. It commonly affects the hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle joints. If left untreated, it can cause severe pain, limited mobility, and even joint collapse.



Recognizing the signs and symptoms of osteonecrosis is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment. Here are some key indicators to look out for:




  1. Pain: Osteonecrosis often presents as persistent pain in the affected joint. Initially, the pain may be mild and intermittent, but it can progress to become more severe and constant over time.

  2. Stiffness: You may experience stiffness in the joint, especially after periods of rest or inactivity. This stiffness can make it difficult to move the joint freely.

  3. Joint instability: Osteonecrosis can cause a feeling of instability or weakness in the affected joint. You may notice that the joint gives way or feels like it might collapse.

  4. Limited range of motion: As the condition progresses, you may find it increasingly challenging to move the joint through its full range of motion. This limitation can impact your ability to perform daily activities.

  5. Swelling and tenderness: In some cases, the affected joint may become swollen and tender to the touch. This swelling is often accompanied by warmth and redness around the joint.



If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. They will likely perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and order diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or bone scans to confirm the presence of osteonecrosis.



Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing osteonecrosis. Treatment options may include medication to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, physical therapy to improve joint function and mobility, and in some cases, surgical interventions like core decompression, bone grafting, or joint replacement.



Remember, this information is provided for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you suspect you may have osteonecrosis, seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.


by Diseasemaps

Many don't know until it is too late. Listen to your body, if you think there is something wrong get it looked at.

6/16/17 by Austin 4830

See your doctor. Usually DX with Xray

6/30/17 by Dave 2270

Only an Xray or MRI will tell for sure. The type of pain will be unlike anything you most likely have experienced. It is a persistent deep core bone pain that feels like it radiates from within the bone outward. Pain may persist whether weight bearing or at rest. Often in the middle of the night you may ache or multiple joints will ache.

9/27/17 by Alan 900

The pain is usually what tells you something is wrong, I which leads to the testing mentioned above.

11/3/17 by Pamela 1600

An MRI of the affected joint.

6/11/18 by Rob 1500

Server pain in a joint, unable to move it, burning, swelling, unable to sleep, go to a GP first and a special doctor who has experience in it

6/11/18 by Megan 2500

Severe deep ache in your joints that progressively gets worse. Medical tests including an MRI will confirm the diagnosis

11/13/18 by Scott 3050

If you have pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse, get an mri or x-ray.

8/27/19 by Cheryl 2800

MRI diagnosis tool If you have pain

2/28/20 by Lisa j 1700

Ain is the main symptom of osteonecrosis. If you have pain in a joint whenever you put weight on it, or if you have constant pain that's getting worse, not better you should seek medical advice. Your primary care provider or local doctor can assist you. There are more common causes for pain like this and the doctor will want to check for them. You can ask for an x-ray of the joint. Ask for an xray even if they want you to get an ultrasound too. Osteonecrosis cannot be seen on an ultrasound, your Dr will need an xray to identify osteonecrosis.

3/15/20 by Caitlin 3050
Translated from spanish Improve translation

Experienced sudden intense pain in the bone or joint

5/18/17 by Javier. Translated

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