Thanks, tuckerp, for "sharing the pain." Though I don't wish my particular experience on anyone else, it does help to hear from someone else on the journey toward symptom relief. My X-rays show mild to moderate osteoarthritis, so not quite ready for the hip replacement. BUT, I suspect I might be experiencing some pressure on that nerve. I'm sorry the new hardware hasn't completely corrected the issue for you, and I'm holding my breath at this point as to whether the steroid injection will help me. I think I am coming to understand that the avascular necrosis is a very rare symptom -- thank goodness -- and that I'm just experiencing yet another sign of "normal aging" and have to be more careful with my body. Sheesh!
Thanks again for reaching out.