life after avn surgery: recovery and rehabilitation

surgical options for avn

When AVN progresses to an advanced stage, surgery often becomes necessary to alleviate pain and restore function. Core decompression is commonly performed in the early stages to relieve internal bone pressure and stimulate blood flow. In more severe cases, bone grafting is done to replace dead bone tissue with healthy tissue. For patients with extensive joint damage, total joint replacement, or arthroplasty, is the definitive solution, involving the replacement of the damaged joint with a prosthetic one.

the road to recovery post-surgery

Recovery after AVN surgery is a gradual process, with distinct phases that aim to restore mobility and strength. In the initial weeks, the focus is on managing pain and ensuring proper wound care. Patients are encouraged to perform gentle, non-weight-bearing movements to prevent stiffness and blood clots. As healing progresses, physiotherapy becomes the cornerstone of recovery, helping patients regain strength, flexibility, and confidence.

During the first few months, patients undergo progressive physiotherapy sessions designed to strengthen muscles and improve joint functionality. For those recovering from joint replacement, relearning basic movements like walking and climbing stairs is a key focus. By the third or fourth month, most patients can resume light activities, with full recovery often achieved within six to twelve months.

the role of physiotherapy in post-surgical rehabilitation

Physiotherapy is essential for maximizing the benefits of AVN surgery and ensuring a successful recovery. Early rehabilitation focuses on gentle exercises to prevent joint stiffness and improve circulation. Over time, these exercises become more advanced, incorporating strength training and functional movements. For patients with hip or knee replacements, gait training is crucial to restore balance and proper walking patterns.

At Portea, our post-surgical physiotherapy programs are tailored to individual needs, addressing each patient’s unique challenges and goals. Our therapists work closely with patients to ensure a safe and effective recovery, empowering them to regain their independence and quality of life.

how portea helps?

At Portea, we offer Physiotherapy at Home services to address a variety of health conditions. Our physiotherapy programs are tailored to support recovery from sports injuries and post-surgical rehabilitation, while also providing effective management for back pain, arthritis, shoulder pain, and slipped disc issues. For those with respiratory disorders like COPD, we focus on targeted breathing exercises that enhance lung function.

Additionally, our physiotherapists are experienced in neuro-rehabilitation for individuals recovering from stroke or managing paralysis, with specialized exercises designed to improve strength, balance, and mobility. With Portea, you can access professional, personalized physiotherapy in the comfort of your home, designed to enhance your quality of life.

Portea provides a range of services to support your health, including nursing care at home, nursing attendants at home, and options to rent or purchase medical equipment at home. We also offer home vaccinations, personalized diabetes care plans, mothers and baby care plans at home. Our goal is to deliver compassionate, tailored care right where you need it.

faq’s

How frequently does avascular necrosis occur?

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is not highly common but occurs frequently enough to be a significant medical concern. Each year, it is estimated to affect 10,000 to 20,000 people in the United States, with the hip joint being the most commonly impacted area. AVN can affect individuals of any age, but it is most prevalent in those aged 30 to 50 years.

The likelihood of developing AVN increases with certain risk factors, such as long-term use of corticosteroids, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, or medical conditions like lupus or sickle cell disease. Traumatic injuries, such as fractures or dislocations near joints, can also contribute to the development of AVN by disrupting blood supply to the bone. 

What should I expect immediately after AVN surgery?

After surgery, you may experience pain and swelling in the affected area. You’ll likely be monitored in a recovery room and given pain medication as needed.

How soon can I resume normal activities after AVN surgery?

Full recovery can take several weeks to months. Typically, you will be advised to avoid high-impact activities for 6 to 12 weeks, gradually increasing mobility with physical therapy.

What are the causes of avascular necrosis?

Avascular necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, occurs when the blood supply to a bone is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue. This loss of blood flow can result from various factors:

1. Trauma or Injury: Fractures or joint dislocations can damage blood vessels, cutting off blood supply to the bone.
2. Prolonged Corticosteroid Use: Long-term use of corticosteroids can affect blood flow, possibly by increasing fat deposits in blood vessels, leading to blockages.
3. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can lead to fatty deposits in blood vessels, reducing blood flow to bones.
4. Medical Conditions: Disorders like sickle cell disease, lupus, and blood clotting abnormalities can impair circulation to the bones.
5. Radiation or Chemotherapy: Treatments for cancer can damage blood vessels and bone tissue, increasing AVN risk.

What are the signs and symptoms of avascular necrosis?

Avascular necrosis (AVN) symptoms vary depending on the stage of the condition and the affected bone. Initially, AVN may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as the condition progresses, the following signs often appear:

1. Pain:
   • Early stages: Mild or intermittent pain in the affected joint, often during weight-bearing activities.
   • Advanced stages: Persistent or severe pain, even at rest.
2. Limited Joint Movement:
   Stiffness or difficulty moving the affected joint, which worsens over time.
3. Swelling:
   In some cases, the joint may appear swollen or tender to touch.
4. Joint Instability or Weakness:
   The affected joint may feel unstable or weak, making daily activities more difficult.
5. Pain Location:
   • Most common in weight-bearing joints like the hip, knee, or ankle.
   • Can also occur in the shoulder, wrist, or jaw.