Q: I am suffering from avascular necrosis of the left hip joint since two years. I have consulted 3 orthopaedic experts in this respect. According to them the reason for this condition is a cortisone (wysolone) I had to take for subsiding ulcerative colitis - this I am suffering since 15 years. Although I have been managing the problem without any pain reliever, since couple of months I have pain in the shoulder, sometimes at right hip joint and knees. I am presently taking the following medicines: Mesacol 400 mg 1 tab 3 times, Folvite & Cobadex Forte one each daily after breakfast, Shellcal 500 1 tab daily. Also apply some ointments like Felini/Overran, etc at times. I am 57 years old, weight 61-62 kgs, ht. 5ft 7in, vegetarian, non-smoker, and do not take alcohol. For breakfast I have idli etc, lunch - 4 rotis and one vegetable, and seasonal fruits; dinner - rice and vegetables/curd. Kindly give me suitable advice to get rid of the pain. I was forced to discontinue my morning walk after this problem with hip joint started.

A:The treatment of avascular necrosis of the hip is dependent on the stage; if there is no arthritis or collapse, a core decompression can be done. If there is arthritis, a hip replacement can be done. Anyways, you are looking at surgical treatment options; for conservative treatment, you can continue with walks, aerobics, or swimming but eventually you will need surgery to improve quality of life. Surgery is not urgent, but needs to be planned as per the stage.