AVN at 25: A Young Patient’s Perspective

“You’re too young for hip problems.”

That’s what most people say when I tell them I have Avascular Necrosis (AVN). It’s not a condition people associate with someone in their 20s. But that’s the thing about AVN it doesn’t care about your age, your plans, or your Instagram feed.

I’m 25. I should be hiking with friends, dancing at weddings, and chasing my career. Instead, I’ve learned to live with pain, limitations, and a whole new level of self-awareness that no one really prepares you for.

This is my story, and maybe it’s a little bit yours too.

The First Signs: Something Wasn’t Right

It started subtly. A weird, nagging pain in my right hip that came and went. I thought it was a gym injury. Maybe I overdid the squats, I told myself. But then the pain got worse. Walking long distances hurt. Climbing stairs became difficult. I even started limping.

Google (bad idea) told me it could be a muscle pull. My doctor (better idea) sent me for an MRI.

Diagnosis? Early-stage AVN in the femoral head.

I was stunned. What even is AVN? How could bone tissue just die?

The Emotional Whiplash

No one prepares you for the mental toll a diagnosis like this takes especially when you're 25.

My first reaction? Denial.

“This must be a mistake. I’m too young for this!”

Then came fear.

“Will I need surgery? Will I walk with a limp forever? What about my future?”

And then silence. I didn’t tell many people. I didn’t want to be that person the one who always has something wrong. But bottling it up only made it worse. I felt isolated. Like my life had taken a detour while everyone else was speeding ahead.

Non-Surgical Treatment: A New Way Forward

Surgery was suggested, but I wasn’t ready for that path. I was determined to explore non-surgical AVN treatment options.

Here’s what my plan looked like:

• Physiotherapy: I started with basic mobility exercises and strengthening routines. Some days were hard. Some days I couldn’t even finish. But I kept going.

• Diet changes: I cut down on inflammatory foods, added calcium and vitamin D supplements, and focused on nutrient-dense meals. No more skipping breakfast!

• Weight management: I was already slim, but I lost a few kilos to reduce stress on the hip. Every gram counts.

• Posture correction: Sitting wrong made things worse. I started using a lumbar cushion, ergonomic chairs, and avoided sitting cross-legged (even though that’s so instinctive in India).

• Alternative therapies: Ayurvedic oils, acupuncture, and even hydrotherapy helped reduce pain.

It wasn’t a miracle cure. But slowly, I noticed less stiffness, more energy, and most importantly hope.

The Social Side of AVN

Being 25 means being social. Parties, outings, weddings all of it.

AVN changed how I approached these things.

• I had to say “no” to standing events or long walks.

• I carried my own cushion to restaurants (yes, really).

• I learned how to excuse myself when the pain kicked in politely.

I also learned that true friends get it. Some even started sending me links to hip-friendly chairs or healthy bone recipes. That support made all the difference.

Dating With AVN

This part? Awkward at first.

How do you tell someone you’re casually dating that you have a bone condition most people haven’t heard of?

Eventually, I decided honesty was better than fear. I explained what AVN is, how it affects me, and what I’m doing about it.

Surprisingly, most people were empathetic. Some were curious. A few ghosted me but that said more about them than me.

If anything, AVN made me more confident in who I am and what I deserve in relationships.

What I’ve Learned

Living with AVN at 25 has taught me more than any self-help book ever could. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Listen to your body. Pain is information not weakness.

• Doctors aren’t gods. Get second opinions. Explore all options.

• Movement is medicine. Even on bad days, gentle movement helps.

• Mental health matters. Therapy, journaling, and talking to fellow AVN warriors helped me stay grounded.

• You’re not alone. Thousands of young people are dealing with chronic conditions. There’s strength in sharing.

Final Thoughts: My Life Isn’t Over — It’s Just Different

Yes, I have AVN. No, I’m not broken.

I’ve learned to redefine what strength looks like not lifting weights or running marathons, but showing up for myself every single day. Taking care of my bones, my mind, and my heart.

If you’re reading this and just got diagnosed, or you’re silently struggling, here’s what I want you to know:

You are still whole. You are still worthy. And you are more resilient than you think.

Let’s walk or limp this journey together.