As I sit down to write on this Osteonecrosis Awareness Day, November 29, I’m compelled to share my journey with this condition, hoping to shed light on the often-overlooked impact it has on individuals of all ages. Diagnosed with osteonecrosis in my right knee back in 2014, the journey has been a rollercoaster, with moments of debilitating pain and days where I find solace in tolerable discomfort.
Symptoms:
Osteonecrosis doesn’t discriminate; it can affect any bone or joint at any age. For me, it settled into my right knee after a medial meniscus tear that happened when I was exercising , bringing with it persistent pain that often made the simplest tasks seem like monumental challenges.
The variability of the symptoms adds an unpredictable element to daily life. Some days, it’s a struggle to walk up stairs while others bring a sense of relief, making the condition feel tolerable.
Plus I also have arthritis in many joints knees , hands and back.
Debilitating Nature:
The debilitating nature of osteonecrosis cannot be overstated. It’s more than just physical discomfort; it’s a constant companion that infiltrates every aspect of life. The impact is not only on the affected joint but ripples through daily activities, work, and even the ability to enjoy simple pleasures. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the strength found in moments of tolerance and okay-ness, finding a delicate balance in the ebb and flow of this condition.
Gratitude for PRP Injections:
In my journey, I encountered a turning point a few years ago with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. Grateful doesn’t begin to cover it. These injections, aimed at promoting tissue regeneration and reducing inflammation, felt like a lifeline. I firmly believe they played a pivotal role in saving me from the prospect of joint replacement. On this Awareness Day, I celebrate the advancements in medical treatments that have provided hope and relief for individuals like me.
Treatment Options:
Understanding the range of treatment options is crucial for those navigating osteonecrosis. From core decompression to PRP injections, prolotherapy, stem cell injections, and even the simplicity of rest and crutches – each approach has its place. In the face of this condition, a personalized treatment plan becomes a roadmap towards better days and improved quality of life. Surgery, while a more invasive option, becomes a beacon of hope for those in advanced stages of osteonecrosis.
Never underestimate the power of a good thermacare heat wrap.
Contributing Factors:
Osteonecrosis doesn’t emerge in isolation; certain factors can contribute to its onset. Chronic corticosteroid use, injury to bone or joint, blood clotting disorders, vasculitis, smoking, lupus, sickle cell disease, AIDS, HIV, and alcoholism are among the culprits. Acknowledging these risk factors is essential for both awareness and prevention, offering an opportunity to mitigate the impact of osteonecrosis.
So on this Osteonecrosis Awareness Day, I share my story in the hope that it resonates with others facing similar challenges. Let’s use this day not only to raise awareness but also to foster understanding and support for those navigating the complexities of osteonecrosis. May it be a day of empathy, education, and a collective commitment to advancing research and treatments for a brighter future.
Thank you to all the states that have adopted today to be recognized
Thank you
I won’t stop until all 50 honor our condition and
11-29 as our awareness day
Joint Purpose 
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