Avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis services offered in Frisco and Fort Worth, TX

Avascular necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, is a painful condition that occurs when blood flow to a bone is reduced or interrupted, causing bone tissue to die and collapse over time. At Pain Specialists of Frisco, board-certified pain management physician Mahesh Mohan, MD, provides advanced diagnostic testing and minimally invasive treatment options to relieve pain, slow disease progression, and restore mobility. Call the Frisco or Fort Worth, Texas, office today to schedule a consultation, or use the online booking feature to learn more about treatment options for avascular necrosis.

Avascular necrosis Q&A

What is avascular necrosis?

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is the loss of blood supply to a bone, leading to the gradual breakdown and collapse of bone tissue. Without adequate circulation, the bone weakens and may eventually collapse, causing severe pain and joint dysfunction. Although AVN can affect any bone, it most commonly occurs in the hip, knee, shoulder, or ankle.

Early diagnosis is critical because once the bone structure collapses, joint damage becomes irreversible. At Pain Specialists of Frisco, Dr. Mohan and his team specialize in identifying AVN in its early stages, when nonsurgical treatments can be most effective in relieving symptoms and slowing progression.

What causes avascular necrosis?

AVN can develop as a result of injury, medical conditions, or certain medications that interfere with blood flow to the bone. Common causes and risk factors include:

Trauma or fractures that damage nearby blood vessels
Long-term corticosteroid use
Excessive alcohol consumption
Blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia
Autoimmune or metabolic diseases
Joint dislocations or radiation therapy

Sometimes, AVN occurs without a clear cause (idiopathic AVN). Regardless of the source, early treatment is key to preventing permanent joint damage.

What are the symptoms of avascular necrosis?

Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:

Persistent joint pain or stiffness
Pain that worsens with weight-bearing activity
Limited range of motion
A dull ache that progresses to sharp or constant pain
Difficulty walking or standing for long periods

If left untreated, AVN can lead to bone collapse, joint arthritis, and long-term mobility issues.

How is avascular necrosis diagnosed and treated?

Dr. Mohan performs a detailed physical exam and may recommend X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to evaluate the extent of bone damage and blood flow.

Treatment at Pain Specialists of Frisco may include:

Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Bisphosphonate therapy to slow bone deterioration
Corticosteroid or regenerative injections for inflammation control
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or Regenexx® stem cell therapy to stimulate healing
Physical therapy to improve joint strength and flexibility

Dr. Mohan prioritizes conservative, nonsurgical care to relieve symptoms, restore mobility, and prevent further bone loss whenever possible.

Call the Pain Specialists of Frisco office near you today to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for avascular necrosis, or book an appointment online.