What does ON mean in REHABILITATION

Osteonecrosis is the death of bone tissue due to impaired blood supply. Without adequate blood flow, the bone can no longer receive oxygen and nutrients, leading to its death.

Common causes of osteonecrosis include trauma that disrupts blood flow to the affected area, excessive alcohol use, steroid use, and certain chronic diseases such as diabetes and lupus.

Symptoms associated with osteonecrosis include pain in the affected area, difficulty weight-bearing on the joint, stiffness or swelling around the joint, and decreased range of motion.

While not all cases of osteonecrosis are preventable, there are measures you can take to reduce your risk for developing it. Avoiding trauma to your bones by using proper safety equipment during physical activity and avoiding excessive alcohol use will help lower your chances for developing this condition. Additionally, consulting with your doctor about any medications you are taking may help lower your risk of developing an adverse reaction that could lead to necrotic bone changes in certain individuals.

Treatment for osteonecrosis depends upon its severity and cause. Doctors may suggest restorative surgery if it's caught early enough or if there's been significant structural damage due to necrotic bone loss. If caught late or after significant structural damage has occurred—non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications may be utilized in order to manage symptoms such as pain relief while maintaining function levels in the affected joint(s).