Why Steroid Use Could Be Silently Damaging Your Bones: The AVN Connection

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) is a silent yet serious bone disease that often sneaks up on individuals who have been using corticosteroids over a prolonged period. Steroids are commonly prescribed for inflammation, autoimmune disorders, allergies, and even COVID-19 complications. However, not many patients are aware that excessive steroid use can compromise blood flow to the bones, especially in the hip joint, leading to bone death or AVN.


Steroid-induced AVN typically starts with mild hip pain, often mistaken for muscle strain. As the blood supply to the femoral head diminishes, the bone begins to collapse internally, making the damage irreversible. What's alarming is that this process can begin without any visible symptoms, making it crucial for long-term steroid users to get routine check ups.

The mechanism is simple yet dangerous: steroids alter the fat metabolism in the body, leading to fat emboli that can block the microvascular supply to bones. Once the bone starts dying, symptoms like joint stiffness, decreased mobility, and chronic pain emerge.

Early detection is key. If you're on a steroid-based treatment plan, it's wise to consult specialists and monitor your bone health proactively. Imaging tests like MRI and CT scans can reveal early stage AVN before significant damage occurs. AVN Treatment can include core decompression, stem cell therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Preventative strategies such as limiting long-term steroid use, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in low impact physical activity can help reduce the chances of developing AVN. It’s also essential to have regular consultations with healthcare professionals if you have a history of steroid usage.

To check if your steroid use is increasing AVN risk, visit the experts in steroid-induced AVN treatment for guidance and support.



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