Avascular necrosis -- AVN -- essentially means the death of your bone tissue. This death of bone tissue is caused by a lack of blood supply to the affected area. The joint most commonly affected by AVN is the hip, according to MayoClinic.com. AVN is a condition that worsens over time making management of AVN a lifelong battle. Exercise can help improve or maintain the range of motion in your hip. Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program with avascular necrosis.
Hip Aduction
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold on to the back of a chair for added support. Your hips, knees and feet should all be pointing forward, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Stand up straight. Slowly lift the affected leg out to the side. Keep your knee straight as you complete this exercise. Lift your leg out as far as you can without causing yourself any pain. Slowly lower your leg back so that you foot is planted back on the floor. Complete 10 repetitions three times a day.
Hip Extensions
Stand up straight with your hands holding on to a chair in front of you. Your feet should be facing forward. Slowly lift the leg with AVN and move it backwards, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Keep your knee straight as you extend your leg backwards. Lift your leg as far as you can go without pain and without bending your knee. Hold your leg in this position for two to three seconds. Slowly return your leg to the floor. Repeat one set of 10 repetitions three times daily.
Cycling
Cycling can help you maintain or regain strength and mobility in your hip muscles and joint, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. You can use a stationary bike at home or at your local gym. Adjust the seat so that your feet touch the pedals with ease. Your knees should be nearly straight as your feet touch the pedals. Pedal backwards and forwards. Begin by cycling for 10 to 15 minutes twice a day, then work your way up to exercising for 20 to 30 minutes at a time.
Resistance Band Exercises
Resistance bands increase the effectiveness of your exercise program. Complete a hip range-of-motion exercise by looping one end of a resistance band around the ankle of the hip that is affected by AVN. Tie the other end in a knot and secure it underneath a door. If you need to, hold onto a chair for added support. Move your leg forward, backward and out to the side, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Always keep your knee straight as you complete resistance band exercises. Complete one set of 10 repetitions for each direction -- front, back and side.
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