Osteonecrosis, also known as ischemic bone necrosis or avascular necrosis, is a bone condition that can lead to the death of bones. This disease occurs when the blood supply to bones decreases and eventually the bones die. If left untreated, a part of the dead bone can break off, leading to disability.
There are numerous factors that may lead to the development of osteonecrosis. They include a severe trauma, fracture around a joint, dislocation of the bone, sickle cell disease, Gaucher disease, long-term treatments with steroids, smoking, type-2 diabetes, gout, atherosclerosis, radiation therapy and excessive alcohol consumption.
Symptoms usually appear at the later stages of avascular necrosis. They include pain in the affected joint that may increase over time, hip joint pain, groin pain and limited range of motion. Diagnosis is made with tests like bone scan, X-ray, MRI and CT scan.
Treatment depends on the underlying condition that is responsible for osteonecrosis. In the early stages, a combination of a medication therapy and range-of-motion exercises can often slow the progression of disease. Surgical options such as vascularized bone graft, total joint replacement, osteotomy and core decompression are also available for the chronic patients.
It makes a good idea to use a supplement that helps maintain the health of bones and mobility of joints. Health Perception Joint-Flex Max Jointcare is a popular brand on the market that is a combination of three ingredients: Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Omega 3. Glucosamine is the nutrient specific to connective tissue that helps regenerate cartilage and soft tissues. Chondroitin helps attract nutrients and fluid into the joint. Omega-3 helps relieve joint stiffness, joint pain and aching muscles.
