What Researchers Did
Researchers reviewed and summarized existing clinical treatments for avascular necrosis of the femoral head using shockwave therapy.
What They Found
The review found that extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) improves pain, hip function, and can lead to the regression of lesions in avascular necrosis of the femoral head. It also noted that ESWT is more effective than core decompression, and a combined therapy of hyperbaric oxygen, ESWT, and oral alendronate is effective for patients with early-stage osteonecrosis.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head can cause significant pain and limit mobility. This review suggests that non-invasive treatments like ESWT, potentially combined with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, could offer effective options for managing early-stage avascular necrosis, helping to preserve the hip joint and improve quality of life.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
As a review article, this study relies on previously published research and does not present new patient data or clinical trial results.