Hi Samantha,

I am so sorry that you are having to deal with the bone issue in so many areas. I imagine that would feel frightening and out of control.

a quick search of AVN revealed that in half of patients it presents in multiple areas, so you are not alone in that. There were additional causes besides steroid use long term. Trauma, lupus, perhaps other autoimmune issues even can contribute.

I did not find any relation between CRPS and AVN, even in a rather thorough article by the famed Dr. Schwartzman from 2012 entitled "Systemic Complications of CRPS". There are however, obvious similarities between high levels of bone resorption in CRPS and the bone loss caused by AVN. It would probably be a real challenge in a patient with both to determine what was really happening.

CRPS does cause measurable blood flow changes to the skin because of faulty neuro vascular coordination. Since joints are innervates and have blood flow could that be affected too? That is a good and valid question.

Have your docs recommended any bisphospinates? These are indicated for both conditions, though they have an occasional adverse event of AVN in the jaw. Go figure!

I hope you rest well and find answers soon.
Sending hugs and healing love,