# What are the treatment options for avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis)? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-treatment-options-for-avascular-necrosis-osteonecrosis Language: en Category: orthopedics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.575Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.575Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/what-are-the-treatment-options-for-avascular-necrosis-osteonecrosis Treatment for avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) aims to relieve pain, improve the function of the affected joint, and prevent further bone damage. Treatment options depend on the progression of the disease, the location of the affected bone, and the patient's overall health. These options may include medication, activity modification, physical therapy, and in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged joint. ## Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Avascular Necrosis In the early stages of avascular necrosis, or when the affected bone tissue is small and not under significant weight-bearing stress, doctors may recommend non-surgical treatment options. These methods aim to reduce stress on the affected joint and relieve pain. These options include: - **Medications:** Pain relievers may be used to reduce discomfort. - **Physical Therapy:** Exercise programs and physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint and improve its range of motion. - **Activity Modification:** It may be recommended to avoid activities that increase stress on the affected joint. - **Assistive Devices:** Crutches or walkers can be used to reduce the weight placed on the affected joint [\[1\]](). In some cases, electrical stimulation may be used as a treatment option [\[2\]](). It is important to discuss these options with your doctor to determine what is most appropriate for your condition. ## When is surgery necessary for treating avascular necrosis? If non-surgical treatments do not succeed in relieving pain or if bone damage worsens, your doctor may recommend surgical intervention. Most individuals with avascular necrosis require surgical treatment to prevent further bone and joint damage and to improve function [\[3\]](). One common surgical procedure for avascular necrosis affecting the hip joint is hip replacement surgery. ## Hip Replacement Surgery for Avascular Necrosis Hip replacement surgery, also known as a hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which an orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged parts of the hip joint and replaces them with new, artificial parts that mimic the function of a natural hip joint [\[1\]](). You may need this surgery if you suffer from conditions such as avascular necrosis, where parts of the bone die due to a lack of blood supply [\[1\]](). ### Goals and Components of the Surgery The goals of hip replacement surgery include relieving pain from the damaged or diseased joint, improving hip joint function, and increasing mobility [\[1\]](). During the surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint and replaces the femoral head and the socket surface (acetabulum) with new artificial components. These parts can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic, and the surgeon may use a combination of these materials [\[1\]](). ## Recovery After Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery time after hip replacement surgery varies from person to person and depends on multiple factors, including the patient's general health. Some people may go home on the same day, while others may need to stay in the hospital. All patients who undergo this surgery learn exercises to strengthen the hip and how to move safely. This includes bearing weight on the operated leg and hip, learning to walk with the new hip, climbing stairs, and using assistive devices [\[1\]](). An exercise and rehabilitation program can significantly aid in recovery. Full recovery, with gains in strength and activity, continues during the year following surgery, as physical therapists and doctors provide guidance on an exercise program that minimizes stiffness, strengthens muscles, and improves movement and endurance [\[1\]](). For more information on avascular necrosis, its causes, and diagnosis, you can visit [Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Pain Causes, Early Diagnosis, and Treatment Options (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Hip Replacement Surgery]() - [Osteonecrosis]() - [Osteonecrosis]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/what-are-the-treatment-options-for-avascular-necrosis-osteonecrosis#answer