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Covid's Hidden Toll: Hip Damage Surges
24 May
Summary
- Post-Covid era sees accelerated hip joint damage
- Younger adults, 30s-40s, increasingly affected by AVN
- Hip replacement surgeries rise by 40% in younger people
Experts are observing a significant increase in hip joint damage and a subsequent rise in Total Hip Replacement surgeries, a trend accelerated by the post-Covid era. This concern was highlighted at the 2nd DELHI HIP 360 Conference, where orthopaedic specialists discussed rising cases of severe hip pain, limping, and difficulty walking.
The prolonged or high-dose use of steroids during COVID-19 treatment is being correlated with osteonecrosis of the femoral head (AVN), especially in individuals with pre-existing vascular or metabolic risks. AVN, once more common in older adults, is now increasingly affecting those in their 30s and 40s.
This condition often progresses silently until the hip joint collapses, necessitating total hip replacement to restore function. Medical professionals emphasize that early diagnosis is crucial for preserving the joint, as delayed detection can lead to irreversible damage. Experts predict a substantial increase in hip replacement demand over the next decade if preventive care is not enhanced.
