Category: Uncategorized

AVN Treatment Options to Discuss With Your PCP or Orthopedic Specialist

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is intended to help you learn about various treatment options so you can discuss them with your primary care physician (PCP), orthopedic specialist, or other qualified healthcare professional. Treatment options vary depending on the individual and the stage, location, and severity of avascular necrosis.

If you have been diagnosed with avascular necrosis (AVN), also called osteonecrosis, there may be more treatment options to discuss with your doctor than you realize. AVN occurs when the blood supply to an area of bone is reduced or interrupted, causing bone tissue to die. When AVN affects a joint such as the hip, one of the major concerns is preventing the weakened bone from progressing to collapse.

Today, some specialists are using advanced imaging, computer-guided procedures, biologic therapies, and other technologies in an effort to preserve the natural joint—particularly when AVN is identified before significant collapse occurs.

Here are several options worth asking your PCP or orthopedic specialist about.

1. 3D-Guided Core Decompression

Core decompression has been used for years as a joint-preserving treatment for AVN.

A newer approach combines the procedure with 3D modeling and computer navigation to more precisely identify and target the area of dead or damaged bone.

Instead of relying on less-targeted drilling, the surgeon can use detailed imaging and navigation to plan a path directly toward the AVN lesion while attempting to preserve as much healthy bone as possible.

Centers such as Yale Medicine have described using intraoperative CT imaging, 3D modeling, and computer navigation for AVN core decompression.

Questions to ask your doctor:

  • What stage is my AVN?
  • Am I a candidate for core decompression?
  • Do you offer 3D-guided or computer-navigated core decompression?
  • Would a more targeted procedure help preserve healthy bone in my particular case?
  • What would my weight-bearing and recovery restrictions be?

2. Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)

Another option to discuss is Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate, or BMAC.

BMAC is typically obtained from the patient’s own bone marrow and processed to concentrate cells and other biological components involved in tissue repair.

Some orthopedic specialists combine BMAC with core decompression. After creating channels into the affected bone, the concentrated bone marrow material can be delivered into the treatment area.

The goal is to combine the mechanical benefits of decompression with biological support for the healing environment.

Research into BMAC for AVN continues, and results can vary depending on the stage of disease and other factors.

A useful question for your orthopedic specialist is:

“Would adding BMAC to core decompression make sense for the type and stage of AVN that I have?”

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is another biologic treatment you may hear about.

PRP is prepared from a patient’s own blood and contains a concentrated level of platelets and associated growth factors. It is used in several areas of orthopedic medicine in an effort to support tissue repair.

PRP has also been investigated as an adjunct to AVN treatment, including in combination with core decompression and other biologic procedures.

If a clinic recommends PRP, ask specifically how it would be used, what evidence supports its use for your stage of AVN, and whether it is intended to treat symptoms or to complement another joint-preserving procedure.

4. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a non-surgical treatment that involves breathing oxygen inside a pressurized chamber.

The increased pressure allows substantially more oxygen to be carried in the blood and delivered to tissues.

HBOT has been studied in people with early-stage AVN, including its potential effects on pain, bone marrow edema, oxygenation, and biological pathways involved in healing.

It remains an area of ongoing research rather than a standard treatment for every person with AVN.

If you are interested in HBOT, consider asking your PCP or orthopedic specialist:

“Is there evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy could be appropriate for my stage of AVN, either alone or alongside another treatment?”

Your doctor can also help determine whether you have medical conditions that would make HBOT inappropriate.

5. Focused Shock Wave Therapy

Another non-surgical option to ask about is focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT/FSWT).

Despite the name, this does not involve an electrical shock.

The treatment directs high-energy acoustic waves toward the affected area from outside the body. These waves are intended to stimulate biological responses associated with blood flow, bone remodeling, and tissue repair.

Research has examined shock wave therapy particularly in people with earlier-stage osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

There are still questions about which patients benefit most, the ideal treatment protocol, and whether the therapy changes the long-term progression of AVN.

That makes it something to discuss with an orthopedic specialist rather than assume is appropriate for every case.

6. Combination Joint-Preservation Treatments

One of the more interesting developments in AVN care is that treatment doesn’t necessarily have to involve only one technique.

Depending on the patient and the stage of AVN, specialists may consider combinations such as:

3D-guided core decompression + BMAC

or potentially other combinations of decompression, biologic augmentation, and supportive therapies.

This is an important reason to ask whether your orthopedic surgeon specifically treats osteonecrosis/AVN and what joint-preservation techniques are available.

A specialist who routinely treats AVN may be familiar with options that are not available at every orthopedic practice.

7. Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement

Unfortunately, not every joint can be preserved.

Once AVN has caused substantial collapse of the femoral head or advanced joint damage, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend joint replacement.

Technology has advanced here as well.

Robotic-assisted systems such as the Mako Robotic-Arm platform can use CT-based 3D modeling to help the surgeon develop a patient-specific surgical plan and guide implant positioning during hip replacement.

Robotic assistance doesn’t replace the surgeon. Instead, it provides another planning and surgical tool that may help the surgeon execute the planned implant positioning.

If your AVN has progressed to the point where replacement is being considered, ask:

“Would I be a candidate for robotic-assisted hip replacement, and what advantage would it offer in my particular case?”

Why Knowing Your AVN Stage Matters

One of the most important conversations to have with your doctor is about what stage your AVN has reached.

There is a major difference between treating an area of osteonecrosis while the structure of the bone is still intact and treating a joint after the bone has collapsed.

Ask your PCP or orthopedic specialist to explain your imaging to you.

Find out:

Where is the AVN?

How large is the lesion?

Has any collapse occurred?

Is the joint surface still intact?

Am I still in the window for joint-preserving treatment?

Those answers can significantly influence which treatment options are worth discussing.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask About Newer Options

Being diagnosed with AVN does not mean that every patient immediately needs a joint replacement.

Depending on the stage and severity of the disease, there may be joint-preserving, biologic, non-surgical, and advanced surgical options worth discussing.

Ask your PCP or orthopedic specialist about:

3D-guided core decompression.
BMAC.
PRP.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Focused shock wave therapy.
Combination joint-preservation procedures.
Robotic-assisted joint replacement when replacement becomes necessary.

Some of these treatments are established in selected situations, while others are still emerging or being studied. Availability also varies considerably between medical centers.

The purpose of learning about these options isn’t to decide on a treatment by yourself.

It’s to give you better questions to take into the doctor’s office.

Ask what stage your AVN is in. Ask what can still be preserved. Ask what treatments are available. Ask about the benefits, limitations, risks, recovery time, and evidence behind each option.

Then you and your healthcare team can discuss which approach makes sense for your individual situation.

Chronic Pain Awareness

September Is Pain Awareness Month: Understanding Chronic Pain and Ways to Manage It

Disclaimer: This content is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is intended to help you learn about chronic pain and various management options so you can discuss them with your primary care physician (PCP), orthopedic specialist, rheumatologist, pain-management provider, physical or occupational therapist, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional. Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing medications, supplements, exercise programs, or treatments.

September is Pain Awareness Month, an opportunity to bring greater attention to chronic pain, the conditions that cause it, and the many ways people can work with their healthcare teams to manage it.

Chronic pain is more than simply “hurting.” It can affect mobility, sleep, work, independence, relationships, mental well-being, and the ability to participate in everyday activities.

It also doesn’t have one single cause. Chronic pain can develop from arthritis, osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis (AVN), nerve disorders, spinal conditions, injuries, surgeries, inflammatory diseases, and many other conditions.

Understanding why you are hurting is an important part of determining what can be done about it.

Arthritis and Chronic Pain

Arthritis isn’t a single disease. The term describes numerous conditions affecting joints and surrounding tissues.

Depending on the type of arthritis, a person may experience:

  • Joint pain and tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Difficulty walking or using the affected joint
  • Pain during or after activity
  • Periods of worsening symptoms

Some forms of arthritis are primarily inflammatory, while others involve degenerative changes within the joint.

That distinction matters because managing the symptoms of arthritis and treating the underlying disease aren’t always the same thing.

Osteoarthritis: A Common Cause of Chronic Joint Pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease involving changes in cartilage, bone, and other tissues within and around a joint.

It commonly affects the hips and knees, but it can also occur in the hands, spine, shoulders, ankles, and other joints.

As osteoarthritis progresses, people may experience increasing pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, difficulty with weight-bearing activities, and limitations in everyday life.

Treatment may involve a combination of movement, strengthening, physical or occupational therapy, weight management when appropriate, topical treatments, medications, injections, assistive devices, and, for some people with advanced disease, joint-replacement surgery.

Avascular Necrosis (AVN): Bone Damage That Can Lead to Osteoarthritis

Avascular necrosis (AVN), also called osteonecrosis, is different from osteoarthritis—but AVN can eventually lead to secondary degenerative osteoarthritis.

AVN develops when the blood supply to an area of bone becomes inadequate, causing bone tissue to die.

Although AVN is frequently discussed in connection with the hip, AVN is not exclusively a hip condition. Osteonecrosis can affect bones around the:

Hips, knees, shoulders, ankles, elbows, wrists, and other joints.

In its earlier stages, the structure of the affected bone may remain intact. As AVN progresses, however, weakened bone can begin to collapse.

When AVN affects bone near a joint, collapse can alter the shape and mechanics of that joint. The joint surface and cartilage can subsequently become damaged.

That damage can eventually result in secondary degenerative osteoarthritis.

At that point, a person may be dealing with both the consequences of osteonecrosis and degenerative changes within the joint, potentially contributing to additional pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and loss of function.

This relationship is important because managing AVN pain does not necessarily mean the underlying AVN has stopped progressing.

Someone living with AVN should talk with an orthopedic specialist about the stage and location of the disease, whether there are signs of collapse, whether degenerative osteoarthritis has developed, and whether joint-preserving treatment is still an option.

Other Types of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can come from many different conditions.

Some people live with rheumatoid or other inflammatory arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, chronic back or neck pain, degenerative spine conditions, migraines, tendon or soft-tissue disorders, previous injuries, postsurgical pain, or nerve damage.

Others may have several painful conditions at the same time.

Two people can even have the same diagnosis and experience very different levels and types of pain.

That is one reason chronic pain management needs to be individualized.

Building a Chronic Pain Management Toolbox

For many people, chronic pain management isn’t about discovering one treatment that eliminates every symptom.

It can involve building a toolbox of strategies that work together to reduce pain, protect function, maintain mobility, and improve everyday quality of life.

Here are several options to discuss with your healthcare team.

Diet and Nutrition

Food isn’t a cure for chronic pain, AVN, arthritis, or osteoarthritis, but good nutrition can support overall health.

A balanced eating pattern may include:

  • Vegetables and fruits
  • Whole grains
  • Legumes
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Appropriate sources of protein
  • Foods containing healthy unsaturated fats
  • Adequate hydration

For some people, maintaining a weight appropriate for their individual health circumstances can also decrease mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints.

Be cautious with supplements or restrictive diets advertised as being able to “cure” arthritis, reverse AVN, or completely regenerate a damaged joint.

Supplements can also interact with medications. Talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or registered dietitian before making major dietary changes or adding supplements.

Movement: Motion Can Still Matter

Chronic pain can make movement difficult, and there are days when simply getting through normal activities can be challenging.

But movement doesn’t have to mean intense exercise.

Depending on your condition, options might include:

Walking, gentle stretching, range-of-motion exercises, aquatic exercise, strengthening, stationary cycling, chair exercises, or other low-impact activities.

The right amount and type of movement depends on the individual.

This is particularly important for someone with AVN or another condition where weight-bearing may need to be limited. An orthopedic specialist may recommend crutches, a walker, reduced weight-bearing, or other activity modifications depending on the location and stage of the disease.

Don’t assume that “pushing through the pain” is always beneficial.

Ask your healthcare team what types of movement are safe for your particular condition.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Physical therapy can be an important part of chronic pain management.

A physical therapist can evaluate how you move and develop an individualized program that may address:

  • Strength
  • Flexibility
  • Range of motion
  • Balance
  • Walking and gait
  • Joint stability
  • Conditioning
  • Safe use of assistive devices

Physical therapy isn’t simply about exercising harder. It can help identify ways to move more efficiently while working within the limitations created by your condition.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapy can help people continue performing the activities that make up everyday life.

An occupational therapist may help with:

  • Dressing and bathing
  • Cooking
  • Household activities
  • Work tasks
  • Energy conservation
  • Joint-protection techniques
  • Adaptive equipment
  • Home modifications
  • Mobility strategies
  • Finding less painful ways to perform everyday activities

Sometimes managing chronic pain isn’t about giving up an activity.

It’s about discovering another way to do it.

Topical Pain Relief

Topical treatments are applied directly to a painful area and may be appropriate for certain types of musculoskeletal or nerve-related pain.

Depending on the condition, options may include products containing ingredients such as diclofenac, lidocaine, capsaicin, menthol, or other topical preparations.

“Topical” doesn’t automatically mean risk-free.

Some products can cause skin reactions, have dosing limitations, or may not be appropriate with certain medications or medical conditions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which options are appropriate for you and how they should be used.

Medications

Medication can also be one part of chronic pain management.

Depending on the underlying condition and an individual’s health history, healthcare professionals may consider options including:

Acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain medications used for nerve pain, medications directed at inflammatory disease, and other prescription treatments.

The appropriate medication depends on what is causing the pain, not simply how severe the pain feels.

Medications also have risks and potential interactions. NSAIDs, for example, may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly people with certain kidney, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, or medication-related concerns.

Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about what is appropriate for you.

Pain Management and Disease Treatment Aren’t Always the Same Thing

This distinction deserves special attention.

Reducing pain doesn’t necessarily mean the condition causing the pain has been treated.

A topical medication might make an arthritic knee feel better.

Medication may help someone function with chronic back pain.

Physical therapy may help improve mobility.

Someone with AVN may find ways to reduce pain while the underlying osteonecrosis still requires monitoring or treatment.

This is why chronic pain management should include conversations about both questions:

“How can we help control my pain?”

and

“What are we doing about the condition causing my pain?”

Both matter.

Pain Is More Than a Number

People with chronic pain are frequently asked:

“On a scale from 0 to 10, how bad is your pain?”

That number provides information, but it doesn’t tell the entire story.

Tell your healthcare provider what the pain is actually doing to your life.

Can you sleep?

Can you walk through the grocery store?

Can you prepare a meal?

Can you work?

Can you drive?

Can you climb stairs?

Can you shower and get dressed?

Can you exercise?

Can you play with your children or grandchildren?

Can you participate in activities you enjoy?

Sometimes what pain prevents you from doing communicates its impact better than a number ever could.

This September, Talk About Chronic Pain

Pain Awareness Month is about making chronic pain visible and encouraging better conversations about how it affects people’s lives.

Whether your pain comes from arthritis, osteoarthritis, AVN, nerve damage, spinal disease, an injury, surgery, an inflammatory condition, or another chronic illness, you deserve the opportunity to understand your condition and discuss available options.

Ask your healthcare team about diet and nutrition.

Ask about safe movement.

Ask whether physical therapy or occupational therapy could help.

Ask about topical treatments and medications.

Ask whether you need additional imaging or evaluation.

And ask whether controlling your pain is enough—or whether the underlying condition also needs additional treatment.

There may not be one solution for chronic pain. For many people, progress comes from combining several approaches and adjusting them as their condition and needs change.

The goal isn’t simply to put a number on your pain. It’s to find ways to manage it, protect your function, and help you participate as fully as possible in your life.

Avascular Necrosis- Osteonecrosis Awareness Day November 29

💙💚💜

November 29 is AVN Awareness Day.
Osteonecrosis happens when blood flow to the bone is disrupted — from trauma, blood clot issues, steroids, alcohol, chemo, smoking, or sometimes no known cause.
Treatments include PRP, stem cells, A2M, physical therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and in severe cases, joint replacement.
Spread awareness. Save a joint. Save a life. 💙💚💜

💙💚💜

AVN Awareness Day — November 29
Too many are diagnosed late.
Too many are dismissed.
Too many suffer silently.
Let’s change that.
Share the facts. Share the hope. Raise the awareness. 💙💚💜

💙💚💜

Today, November 29, we stand with every warrior living with Osteonecrosis / AVN.
Bone death is real. The pain is real. The courage is real.
Let’s raise awareness for better diagnosis, better treatments, and better understanding.
You are not alone. 💙💚💜

💙💚💜

November 29 is Osteonecrosis (Avascular Necrosis) Awareness Day.
This disease destroys bone when blood flow is lost — but early diagnosis can save joints and change lives.
💙 Injury
💚 Blood clot issues
💜 Steroids, alcohol, chemo, radiation, smoking, high cholesterol
Awareness matters. Treatment exists. Hope is real.

💙💚💜

On this AVN Awareness Day, we lift up everyone living with osteonecrosis.
May God bring comfort, strength, and hope to every person fighting this painful disease.
Awareness brings understanding — and understanding brings compassion.
💙💚💜

avn #osteonecrosis #AvascularNecrosis #awareness

Living a Life of Chronic Gratitude: Finding Blessings in Every Moment

I wanted to share this here as well, because even though this isn’t a typical blog page, it is an educational page for awareness for chronic pain, osteonecrosis Arthritis, and any chronic pain of any kind but I started this to focus on bone health, but here’s a blog post from my current blogs that I wanted to share with you because I think it sometimes makes our life a little easier

In the journey of life, we are all bound to encounter trials and tribulations, whether we navigate through days filled with sunshine or weather storms of adversity. For individuals like myself, living with chronic pain has become a constant companion, although since moving to Florida it’s been less, fir 30 years it’s been a silent shadow that lingers in the background of daily existence. Yet, amidst the challenges and uncertainties that pain brings, I have learned to embrace a mindset of chronic gratitude – an attitude that transcends circumstances and illuminates even the darkest moments with rays of hope and appreciation.

As the author of the blog “ChronicallyGratefulDebla,” aka now called http://www.Joint-Purpose.com and also http://www.joyful-echoes.com

I am on a personal sojourn towards discovering the profound beauty of being grateful in both the good times and the not-so-good times. This journey has taught me that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion evoked by fleeting circumstances; it is a state of being, a conscious decision to acknowledge and appreciate the blessings that surround us, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant they may appear.

Living with chronic pain has its own set of challenges – the unrelenting ache, the limitations it imposes, the moments of despair when it seems like the pain will never end. However, through the lens of chronic gratitude, I have come to understand that even in the midst of pain, there are still reasons to be thankful. It is in those moments of discomfort and struggle that we discover our inner strength, our resilience, and our capacity to endure.

Whether we are working full-time, part-time, or currently unemployed, the trials and tribulations of life do not discriminate. They touch us all in different ways, shaping our experiences and testing our resolve. It is during these times that being grounded in faith becomes essential, serving as a beacon of light in the darkness, a source of comfort and guidance when the road ahead seems uncertain.

Being chronically grateful does not mean denying the challenges we face or pretending that everything is perfect. Instead, it is an acknowledgment of the complexities of life, a recognition that even in the midst of pain and adversity, there are still reasons to give thanks. It is an act of defiance against despair, a declaration of hope in the face of uncertainty.

So, as I navigate the highs and lows of my journey, I choose to remain chronically grateful, blessed, and thankful. I choose to see the beauty in every moment, to find joy in the midst of sorrow, and to embrace each day as a gift, no matter what it may bring. Because in the end, gratitude is not just a feeling – it is a way of life, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith to sustain us through the darkest of times.

MTHFR

Before I start let me say I am not a doctor , I am medically retired apprentice optician who happens to have Hypothyroidism, Osteoarthritis, Osteonecrosis,Factor V Leiden one copy and MTHFR one copy and sharing.

Living with MTHFR is a learning experience and a pain, you get so much misinformation do this eat that dont take this….
You cannot just take regular OTC vitamins, so here is some information I found to help me learn about my MTHFR. My B levels especially B12 are always higher than normal.

What is MTHFR, really?

In our bodies we have thousands of enzymes that each do one specialized little job, like a factory worker who puts in one specific bolt on each car that comes down the line. MTHFR is the name of both one of your enzymes (a little factory worker) and the gene that codes for it. We’ll talk about the gene in a minute, but first let me give you one short paragraph of biochemistry that you can skim if you aren’t in the mood.

So, here goes. MTHFR, or methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, is an enzyme that converts 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate. This is necessary because 5-methyltetrahydrofolate goes on to donate a methyl group to homocysteine, making methionine. Methionine is an amino acid that we need to make protein, thus making it important for growth, cell division, and just generally for life.

This pathway involves more enzymes besides MTHFR, and it also involves a few chemical compounds that you know as vitamins. Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is also involved in this pathway. The molecule that MTHFR most directly acts on is a form of folate, a relative of folic acid, sometimes called vitamin B9. These vitamins are essential to our bodies because they are needed for biochemical pathways including this one.

The MTHFR enzyme only exists because our bodies build it, and the instructions to build it are contained in the MTHFR gene in our DNA. (You can think of a gene as a recipe; they often contain instructions for an enzyme or some other useful protein.)

You can see the MTHFR entry in the National Library of Medicine’s Gene database here. It resides on chromosome 1, in humans. (Other animals have their own versions.) It is expressed in many different tissues, including the lungs, thyroid, spleen, and more. We all have a MTHFR gene—two, actually, since we have two copies of every gene—but mine might not be identical to yours.

Can MTHFR cause high b12?

The short answer is yes, MTHFR can cause high B12 on a blood test result, this is because of lower production of folate which means that more B12 may not have enough folate to work with, which leads to higher B12 levels. Higher B12 levels can also be the result of inhibitors that interfere with the MTHFR process and therefore support MTHFR high B12. High B12 MTHFR problems are very common, MTHFR and high B12 often also result from MTHFR b12 supplements that are used in excess.

MTHFR high B12, MTHFR, and high b12 MTHFR B12 supplement…
Vitamin B12 and homocysteine

When you have MTHFR gene mutations you lack the enzymes responsible for the conversion of folate that you eat into the active form 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate. However, this important reaction is then directly involved in the utilization of vitamin B12. Which is vitally important in the processing of homocysteine. So, if your vitamin B12 is not working properly because your folate metabolism isn’t working properly this causes homocysteine imbalances which are considered a serious health problem for anyone, especially for those with MTHFR gene mutations. If you are positive for MTHFR a good homocysteine reading should be between 7 – 8 µmol/L and vitamin serum B12 levels should be above 500 – 800. If this is not the case you should seek a MTHFR treatment.
Which B12 vitamin is best for MTHFR

Most people are aware of the benefits of having B vitamins in terms of taking nutritional supplements. More often than not people who take vitamin B complex supplements may be doing themselves more harm than good. When it comes to the MTHFR condition. Most B complex supplements have two problems that dramatically affect those with MTHFR gene mutations these include:

Folic acid
Vitamin B12 as cyanocobalamin

Folic acid is a synthetic “man-made” form of folate. Which interferes with the absorption of real folate in those with MTHFR. This makes life much harder for those with the gene defect increasing the deficiency of the already reduced ability to absorb and use folate.

The “cyanocobalamin” version of B12 is made from cyanide which over time may have toxic effects, this form of B12 is not ideal and for those with MTHFR gene mutations, it can more often than not be harder for their body to use vs other forms of B12. This synthetic “man-made” form of vitamin B12 has low biological activity. This means that it has to be converted in the liver to become a more active form so it can be used. Those with existing gene mutations may have more trouble breaking down the cyanocobalamin version of B12 which is not ideal.
The best type of B12 vitamin for MTHFR is very much dependent on the following:

Which type of MTHFR gene mutation you are diagnosed with
The symptoms you experience with MTHFR
Your family history of the disease
Your homocysteine balance
If you are a smoker or have smoked in the past
Your blood pressure
Your diet
Mental status

It’s best to consult your MTHFR practitioner about which form of B12 is best for your condition. Here are some of the forms of vitamin B12 used in cases of MTHFR gene mutations:

Methylcobalamin (an active form of B12)
Hydroxycobalamin (a nitric oxide scavenger)
Adenosylcobalamin (energy production)

Depending on the type of gene you have been diagnosed with will depend on which B12 vitamin is right for you. In some instances taking the wrong one can cause unwanted symptoms. This is because there are often other mutations involved such as COMT (Catechol-O-Methyltransferase) that don’t respond well to certain B12 supplements.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency and methyl trapping

People with MTHFR gene mutations often have hidden B12 deficiencies which cause the active form of folate 5-methyl THF or 5-methyltetrahydrofolate to become trapped, this is known as the methyl-folate trap, when this happens, taking the MTHFR recommended supplements can cause serious harm and should be avoided until the underlying reasons for the B12 deficiency can be addressed and the right type of B12 can be prescribed.
MTHFR & Vitamin B12

As you can see there are many reasons to consider B12 vitamins in the proper treatment of MTHFR conditions, this vital nutrient can make a big difference to the outcome of a person’s overall health but it is important to get it right. Vitamin B12 is not the only consideration but it does play a big role in how you respond to MTHFR treatments. Because vitamin B12 works with almost every other vitamin and mineral directly and indirectly getting it working for you is vital in the proper treatment of MTHFR.

MTHFR is an abbreviation for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which is an enzyme that helps the body process folate (vitamin B9). Some people have genetic variations that affect the MTHFR enzyme’s function, which can lead to a deficiency in folate and other important nutrients.
If you have MTHFR gene variants, it is recommended to take supplements that help alleviate symptoms that go along with having MTHFR gene variants. According to, nutrients that are necessary for proper MTHFR functioning are:

• Betaine as trimethylglycine
• Folate
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin B6
• Organ meats (as supplements because of their high nutrient content)
• Magnesium
• Choline

It is important to note that not all over-the-counter vitamins are suitable for people with MTHFR gene variants. Some vitamins contain synthetic vitamins, such as folic acid, which can be harmful to people with MTHFR gene variants. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any over-the-counter vitamins or supplements.

getting checked is a simple blood test

Happy Holiday !!

Happy holidays, everyone! I hope this blog post finds you well and in good spirits. I know living with osteonecrosis and arthritis can be a pain, literally and figuratively. But don’t let that stop you from enjoying this festive season. Here are some tips to help you manage your pain and have a merry time.

  • Eat more anti-inflammatory foods. Inflammation is a major cause of pain in many diseases, so eating foods that fight inflammation can help you feel better. Some examples are berries, nuts, leafy greens, fish, olive oil, and turmeric.
  • Get moving. Exercise can improve your blood circulation, reduce stiffness, and boost your mood. Even just walking for 5 minutes 2-3 times a day can make a difference. But the more you move, the better you’ll feel.
  • Practice self-care. Take some time to pamper yourself and do things that make you happy. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to music, watching a movie, or taking a nap, do something that relaxes you and brings you joy.
  • Meditate for better mental health. Meditation can help you cope with stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help you focus on the present moment and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. You can use an app, a video, or just your own breath to meditate for a few minutes every day.
  • Use heat wraps when you hurt. Heat can soothe sore muscles and joints and ease pain. You can use heat wraps, heating pads, hot water bottles, or warm baths to apply heat to the affected areas. Everyone may be different, so find what works best for you.
  • Don’t overdo it. Allow others to help you when you need it. Don’t feel guilty or ashamed to ask for help or accept help from others. You are not a burden, you are a blessing. Remember that you are not alone in this journey.
  • Add a few positive quotes to your day. Positive quotes can inspire you, motivate you, and lift your spirits. You can write them down, say them out loud, or display them somewhere you can see them often. Here are some examples:
  • “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters.” – Audrey Hepburn
  • “The pain you feel today will be the strength you feel tomorrow.” – Unknown
  • “Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama
  • “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
  • “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – A.A. Milne

Merry Christmas!! I wish you all a blessed holiday and a happy new year!

Be sure to check out

http://www.joyfu-echoes.com

http://www.joint-purpose.com

http://www.the-buzz-club.com

http://www.avascularnecrosiseducation.com

New Study AVN from Covid 19

Hey everyone, I want to share something with you that I’ve been thinking about for a long time. Remember when covid 19 hit us hard and we had to deal with all the lockdowns and restrictions? Well, I had a hunch back then and I mentioned it on a few of our live conversations with Dr. Michael Mont MD, that this would have some serious consequences for our health, especially our joints. And guess what? I was right.

A recent study has shown that covid 19 can cause avascular necrosis (AVN), which is a condition where the bone tissue dies because of poor blood supply. This can lead to severe pain, disability and even the need for joint replacement surgery. And you know what makes it worse? Steroids.

Steroids are often used to treat covid 19 and other inflammatory diseases, but they also have a downside. They can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of AVN. That’s why I think we should be very careful with steroids and try to find alternative ways to manage our inflammation and pain. One option could be to use statins, which are drugs that lower cholesterol and improve blood flow. They may also have some anti-inflammatory effects and protect the bones from AVN.

So, if you are suffering from joint pain or have been diagnosed with AVN, talk to your doctor about statins and see if they can help you. I know it’s not easy, but we have to take care of ourselves and our joints. We deserve to live a happy and pain-free life, don’t we?

Here is link to study  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37923881/

Osteonecrosis- and New Logo Designs More to Come.

Hey everyone! Today I want to talk about a topic that is close to my heart – osteonecrosis. Living with this rare condition can be really challenging, both physically and mentally. Osteonecrosis occurs when there is a lack of blood supply to the bone and joint, which can eventually lead to the collapse of the bone and the need for a joint replacement. It’s a tough journey, but remember, you’re not alone.

There are various underlying causes for osteonecrosis, including trauma to the bone or joint, blood clotting disorders, autoimmune conditions, cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy, as well as certain diseases like vasculitis, lupus, HIV, and sickle cell anemia. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive drinking can also contribute to the development of osteonecrosis. Additionally, the chronic use of corticosteroids is a known cause for many individuals.

However, it’s crucial to note that not everyone who experiences these factors will develop osteonecrosis. Each person’s journey with this condition is unique, and it’s important not to blame ourselves or feel guilty for something that may be beyond our control.

But here’s the thing – we need better treatment options for osteonecrosis. Having access to alternative medications like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can make a significant difference in managing this condition and potentially preventing the need for joint replacements. PRP therapy involves using a concentrated form of a patient’s own blood to promote healing and regeneration in the affected area.

Unfortunately, insurance companies often don’t cover PRP therapy or other alternative treatments for osteonecrosis. This makes it challenging for individuals to explore all available options to manage their condition effectively. We need to raise awareness about the importance of these treatments and advocate for insurance coverage, ensuring that everyone has access to the best possible care.

So, let’s come together and spread awareness about osteonecrosis. Share your experiences and knowledge, support one another, and join the fight for better treatment options. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those living with this condition. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #OsteonecrosisAwareness and #JointHealthMatters to amplify our message.

Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, but together we can make a difference. Let’s continue to spread awareness and support one another in this fight against osteonecrosis. Stay strong, warriors! 💪🙌

The Guardian

I’m excited to share with you one of the new logo designs for Osteonecrosis awareness! Introducing “The Guardian” – a symbol of strength, protection, and unity in the fight against this rare condition.

The logo features a bold and powerful image of a guardian angel with outstretched wings, symbolizing the support and protection we offer to those affected by osteonecrosis. The angel is seen holding a bone, representing the importance of bone health and the need to raise awareness about this condition.

The color palette chosen for the logo reflects the resilience and determination of individuals living with osteonecrosis. Shades of blue and purple evoke a sense of calmness, hope, and empowerment, while the green is for life and the touch of gold -white adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.

The Guardian logo aims to capture attention and spark curiosity, encouraging individuals to learn more about osteonecrosis and become advocates for better treatment options and insurance coverage. By using this logo, we are creating a unified and recognizable symbol that can be shared across social media platforms, websites, and events, creating a sense of community and solidarity.

As an influencer, it’s essential for me to use my platform to spread awareness and support those affected by osteonecrosis. I encourage you all to join me in using the hashtag #GuardianOfBoneHealth when sharing posts related to this condition and the new logo. Let’s come together and make a positive impact in the lives of individuals battling osteonecrosis.

Stay strong and keep fighting, warriors! 💙💜💚

Logo 2 The Multi-Phoenix

Also is

The phoenix is a powerful symbol of transformation and resilience, which aligns perfectly with the journey of those living with osteonecrosis. By incorporating the phoenix logo into our social media posts, we can further emphasize the strength and determination of individuals battling this condition.

Let’s use the hashtag #RisingStrong to accompany posts featuring the phoenix logo. Together, we can inspire hope and encourage others to rise above challenges and embrace their own inner strength.

If you’re interested in using the phoenix logo on your social media platforms, feel free to reach out to me for the high-resolution image. Let’s continue raising awareness and supporting one another in this journey of resilience.

Stay powerful, warriors! 🔥💪

What to Expect When Living With Spondylolysis that has progressed Spondylolisthesis — Chronically Grateful Me by Deb Andio

I had back pain off and on for about 14 years, doctors usually thought I was too young for such intense pain, one doctor accused me of being a pill seeker. I was so frustrated I reported him to the local hospital administrator. I also fired a couple doctors because they acted as if I […]

What to Expect When Living With Spondylolysis that has progressed Spondylolisthesis — Chronically Grateful Me by Deb Andio