Acupuncture and moxibustion offer a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective approach to treating femoral head necrosis (avascular necrosis, AVN), often eliminating the need for surgery. By restoring blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting bone repair, these therapies can halt disease progression, relieve pain rapidly, and restore joint function.  

Key Therapeutic Mechanisms:

1. Revascularization –  

   - Acupuncture at GB30/Huantiao and local Ahshi points stimulates angiogenesis, improving blood supply to the ischemic femoral head.  

   - Moxibustion (especially with ginger-interposed moxa) enhances microcirculation, preventing further bone cell death.  

2. Pain Relief (Within 1-2 Weeks) –  

   - Electroacupuncture triggers endorphin release, rapidly reducing hip/groin pain.  

   - Moxibustion’s deep thermal effect relaxes muscles and decreases joint stiffness.  

3. Bone Regeneration –  

   - Studies confirm acupuncture upregulates BMP-2 (bone morphogenetic protein), aiding osteoblast activity.  

   - Moxa’s infrared radiation penetrates deep tissues, accelerating necrotic bone resorption and new bone formation.  

4. Anti-Inflammatory & Immune Modulation –  

   - Reduces IL-6 and TNF-α, preventing further cartilage damage.  

   - Balances Qi stagnation and Blood stasis (TCM pathogenesis of AVN).  

Clinical Advantages Over Surgery:

✔ No risks of implant failure/infection  

✔ Preserves natural joint structure

✔ 80%+ success rate in early-mid stage AVN (Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2021)  

For patients with Stage I-III AVN, a 3-12 month combined acupuncture-moxibustion protocol often achieves full functional recovery without hip replacement. Even advanced cases show significant pain relief and mobility improvement.