Can people with Osteonecrosis work? What kind of work can they perform?

See how people with experience in Osteonecrosis give their opinion about whether people with Osteonecrosis can work and what kind of jobs are more appropriated for people with Osteonecrosis


Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, is a condition that occurs when there is a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the bones, leading to bone death. This condition can affect various joints in the body, including the hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle. The severity of osteonecrosis can vary, and it can cause pain, limited mobility, and even joint collapse in advanced stages.



When it comes to working with osteonecrosis, it is important to consider the individual's specific condition, the affected joint, and the physical demands of their job. While some individuals with mild osteonecrosis may be able to continue working without significant limitations, others with more advanced stages of the condition may require certain accommodations or changes in their work environment.



Individuals with osteonecrosis can often continue working, but the type of work they can perform may depend on several factors:




  1. Severity and location of osteonecrosis: The severity and location of osteonecrosis can greatly impact an individual's ability to perform certain tasks. For example, someone with osteonecrosis in the hip may have difficulty with jobs that require prolonged standing, walking, or heavy lifting. On the other hand, individuals with osteonecrosis in less weight-bearing joints, such as the shoulder or wrist, may have more flexibility in their work options.


  2. Physical demands of the job: The physical demands of a job play a crucial role in determining whether someone with osteonecrosis can continue working. Jobs that involve heavy lifting, repetitive motions, or prolonged standing may be challenging for individuals with osteonecrosis, especially in advanced stages. In such cases, modifications or adjustments to the work environment may be necessary to accommodate their condition.


  3. Treatment and management: The effectiveness of treatment and management strategies can also influence an individual's ability to work. Some individuals may find relief through conservative measures such as pain management, physical therapy, and assistive devices. Others may require surgical interventions, which may have longer recovery periods and impact their ability to work temporarily.



It is important for individuals with osteonecrosis to consult with their healthcare provider and discuss their specific condition and work requirements. In some cases, they may need to explore alternative job roles or make modifications to their current job tasks to accommodate their physical limitations. Occupational therapists can also provide valuable guidance and recommendations for adapting the work environment to meet the needs of individuals with osteonecrosis.



In conclusion, people with osteonecrosis can often continue working, but the type of work they can perform depends on the severity and location of their condition, the physical demands of their job, and the effectiveness of their treatment and management strategies. It is crucial for individuals with osteonecrosis to work closely with their healthcare providers and occupational therapists to determine the most suitable work options and any necessary accommodations.


by Diseasemaps

It's hard to work at all, this disease affects far more than people realize. Effects everything from self esteem to mood to energy to anything else one could think of. Can't stand or sit for more than 20 min

6/16/17 by Austin 4830

Really depends on stages of ON. But physical work will certainly be more challenging and only get harder to perform as ON progresses. Also depends on how many locations within body you have ON and where. So many diff factors make this Q virtually worthless, unfortunately.

6/30/17 by Dave 2270

I cannot imagine working with this pain. Work will be dependent upon where your AVN is located, what your pain level and tolerance for pain is. How quickly or slowly your AVN is progressing. I was fortunate (or not?) to be out of work for another disability when the AVN came on. Pain is exhausting and if I am active I will be down for days after. Also may depend upon if you are on narcotics. This can greatly effect your thought process and concentration.

9/27/17 by Alan 900

In general the answer is YES,:: but with a number of caviates, some people can do some things, and other people other.. I the matching of abilities to tasks is most important.

11/2/17 by Pamela 1600

The ability to work can also vary greatly depending on the stage and progression of AVN in the affected joint(s). In the earlier stages, many do not even know they have it so they enjoy the same quality of life as any other. However, in more advanced stages patients can suffer a great deal of pain, loss of range of motion and increased immobility. It becomes increasingly difficult for patients to retain gainful employment in the later stages.

6/2/18 by BeauytimarkAVN 300

Yes. Sedentary work.

6/11/18 by Rob 1500

Yes they can any work as long they are comfortable

6/11/18 by Megan 2500

That depends on the location, advance of the affected area and type of work, with many surgeons - it can be a challenge to stay employed

7/16/18 by Jenny from the block 900

People may not even know the have the disease while in the early stages. It is possible for some people to work right up until stage 5, but most people seek treatment earlier because of the intense pain.

11/13/18 by Scott 3050

This is all dependent on your level of discomfort. Any heavy lifting should be avoided as you are putting stress on an already compromised joint or bone.

8/27/19 by Cheryl 2800

It depends if you can control the pain and if you have multifocal avn

2/28/20 by Lisa j 1700

People with osteonecrosis can work but may have physical limitations due to pain and joint condition. Jobs with a lot of walking and physical activity may become too painful. Jobs done mainly seated may suit better. If the osteonecrosis is treated successfully with surgery the person is likely to be able to undertake jobs with higher physical demands again.

3/15/20 by Caitlin 3050

Desk jobs only Back office jobs

6/19/20 by Monica 600

office jobs none active jobs

10/1/20 by Sara7105 300
Translated from spanish Improve translation

If Do not perform tasks of effort Not on require the affected joints

5/18/17 by Javier. Translated

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