Post pandemic our country is now fighting an epidemic of AVN cases. Recently, doctors have noticed a significant increase in cases of hip joint pain, especially in patients who suffered from Covid19. The patient complained about persistent pain in the hip joint which was later accompanied by trouble walking and performing daily activities. In some cases, the situation got worsened as patients had troubled sleep due to intense pain. On diagnosis, it was found that these patients were suffering from Avascular Necrosis or AVN. 

Covid-19 not only impacted the respiratory system of an individual but rather the whole body. Avascular Necrosis is a condition in which bone death occurs due to the lack of blood supply. Covid-19 is a recent contributing factor but people with poor bone health have always been at the risk.

Importance of Vitamin D for our health

One main reason for weak bone health which is often overlooked is the deficiency of VITAMIN D. In the preservation of bones it plays a crucial role. 

Bone pain and muscle weakness are the obvious signs of vitamin D insufficiency. Many people only have modest symptoms at first, but with time, those symptoms can worsen and cause great discomfort. But symptoms don't show up until it's almost too late. There are several causes of low vitamin D levels, including:

• Excessive intake of vitamins
• No or limited  sun exposure
• Vitamin A and vitamin K2 deficiency
• Magnesium and boron shortages
• The kidneys, intestines, and liver are all impacted.
• Obesity

Let's start by comprehending the effects that varying vitamin D levels may have on a person.

Under 30 ng/ml of vitamin D is regarded as deficient. People with levels between 30 and 50 ng/ml are inadequate. Vitamin D levels should be between 50 and 70 ng/ml. Moreover, 100ng/ml denotes high levels, whereas levels between 70 and 100ng/ml may suggest cancer or heart problems.

Vitamin D is either not produced by the skin or is not absorbed properly by the stomach, in cases of chronic vitamin D insufficiency. Blood levels of vitamin D and the immune system are intricately connected. It has been noted that individuals who passed away due to Covid-19 had blood vitamin D concentrations of 15 ng/ml or below. Blood levels of vitamin D in the survivors were more than 30 ng/ml. A blood level of 50 to 80 ng/ml of vitamin D is indicative of a strong immune system.

Can other vitamins help in reducing joint pain?

Calcium has a very important role. It is one of the essential minerals required for healthy bones. The bones might become brittle if they don't get enough calcium. Your body cannot adequately absorb calcium from diet or supplements if you don't have enough vitamin D. Your bones' calcium content may decrease as a result, increasing your risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and other conditions linked to inadequate calcium consumption.

The best source of vitamin D is sunlight. UV (ultraviolet) photons from the sun are what enable the skin to produce vitamin D. Food items that are rich in Vitamin D are eggs, milk, salmon, and fortified cereals. It's crucial to remember nevertheless that not all sources are created equal. The only solution is to regularly take vitamin D3 supplements because many individuals do not create enough vitamin D from sunshine and many have trouble absorbing it from the stomach.

Either excess or a lack of vitamin D can have a negative impact on a person's health. Its consumption can cause kidney problems, including the formation of calcium stones, and soreness in the bones. While a deficit could result in fragile bones.