Conservative Treatment for Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head, also known as osteonecrosis of the femoral head, is a common skeletal disease primarily characterized by insufficient blood supply to the femoral head, leading to gradual death of bone tissue. This condition commonly occurs in middle-aged individuals, especially those with a history of long-term heavy alcohol consumption, corticosteroid use, trauma, or certain chronic diseases.

Conservative treatment methods for avascular necrosis of the femoral head mainly include:

1. Weight reduction: Using assistive devices such as crutches or wheelchairs to reduce pressure on the femoral head, avoiding vigorous exercise and weight-bearing activities, which helps protect the femoral head and prevent further damage.

2. Physical therapy: Including heat therapy, cold therapy, massage, and electrotherapy, which can help relieve pain, improve circulation, enhance muscle strength, and increase joint flexibility.

3. Pharmacological therapy: Administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and blood-activating and stasis-resolving medications to alleviate pain, improve local circulation and metabolism, and promote repair of the necrotic bone tissue.

4. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: Enhancing systemic oxygen levels to promote angiogenesis and tissue repair in the affected area.

5. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy: Utilizing TCM methods such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine to achieve effects such as promoting circulation of blood and Qi, resolving blood stasis, and enhancing the healing process, serving as an adjunctive treatment for femoral head necrosis.

6. Bone marrow stimulation techniques: Such as bone marrow aspiration and platelet-rich plasma injections, aimed at stimulating the growth of new bone cells.