Avascular Necrosis Symptoms
In the early stages of avascular necrosis, patients may not have any symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, most patients experience joint pain--at first, only when putting weight on the affected joint, and then even when resting. Pain usually develops gradually and may be mild or severe. If avascular necrosis progresses and the bone and surrounding joint surface collapse, pain may develop or increase dramatically. Pain may be severe enough to limit the patient's range of motion in the affected joint. In some cases, particularly those involving the hip, disabling osteoarthritis may develop.
The period of time between the first symptoms and loss of joint function is different for each patient, ranging from several months to more than a year.
Who Is Likely To Develop Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular necrosis usually affects people between 30 and 50 years of age. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 10,000 to 20,000 people develop osteonecrosis each year.
Avascular necrosis affects both men and women and affects people of all ages. It is most common among people in their thirties and forties. Depending on a person's risk factors and whether the underlying cause is trauma, it also can affect younger or older people.
