<s>[INST] Hi, I ve been told I have a rare condition where my bones are crumbling in my hips and I have to have two new ones.My doctor didn t tell me what it was called and I was too shocked to ask. Could you tell me what it is as I would be most greatful. Thanks, Denise. [/INST] it sounds like you have avascular necrosis of the hips. this leads to abnormal motion at the hip joint, causing accelerated degeneration of the joint. this leads to eventual cartilage loss and soon, bone to bone contact and subsequently severe pain on movement of the hip.this condition can be caused bu several factors including steroid use, alcohol, autoimmune diseases, injuries around the hip etc. in some cases no identifiable cause is found.should it be due to the above factors, you should stop usage of steroids, unless there is no other choice and alcohol intake.i tend to agree that you need hip replacements, provided that you are significantly affected by the pain ie unable to perform your normal daily activities. however if you are coping well with the pain, there is a role of watchful waiting, only performing the surgery if necessary. </s>