Bones are very flexible and can withstand a lot of physical force. However, if the force is too great, bones can break. A broken bone or fracture can repair itself, provided that the conditions are right for the break to heal completely. Find out more about the healing process of bones below.
Bone Fracture Healing Process
After a fracture, a blood clot forms around the break. Then, bone cells begin to form on the sides of the fracture line, moving towards the center of the break, until the break heals. Once it has completely healed, the clot or callus will be absorbed by new cells. The entire process of bone fracture healing can take weeks to months.
What Is The Right Condition For Bones to Heal Completely?
Broken bones are classified according to the characteristics of the break. A bone can break into two or more pieces and spread far apart with some parts piercing through the skin. For complex bone fractures, the doctor needs to perform surgery. The soft tissues will likely have been damaged by the fractured bone.
However, for bone fractures that are classified as stress fractures, transverse, and oblique (nondisplaced), where the bone pieces are pretty much kept together, the bones can repair itself without surgical intervention. For stress fractures (commonly affecting the foot and ankle), your doctor may recommend that you use crutches to keep the weight off the affected foot. For transverse and oblique nondisplaced fractures, the bones must be held in the correct position to allow for proper healing and prevent the movement of the body part, which is also referred to as immobilization. A cast is used to hold the broken bones in alignment. The cast typically needs to be worn for several weeks.
The body also needs nutrients for optimal bone fracture healing. You need to eat healthy foods with special attention given to calcium-rich foods like milk, cheese, kale, spinach, and sardines. Nutritional deficiencies can delay or interfere with bone fracture healing.
Seek urgent orthopedic care if you suspect a broken bone after an incident. In the absence of the right conditions, the broken bone could take longer to heal and end up not healing correctly.
Bone Fracture Treatment in Clinton Township
If you’ve been in a collision, crash, or accident and are experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, limited mobility, and inability to put weight on your foot, have Dr. Jeffrey Carroll of Movement Orthopedics quickly diagnose your injury and provide immediate treatment.
Dr. Carroll aims to provide a personalized treatment plan for his patients (which includes physical therapy) since every patient is unique. If what you have is a complex fracture, Dr. Carroll is highly qualified to perform surgery. Our facility is well-equipped to handle all your orthopedic needs. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Carroll, call (586) 436-3785 or use our convenient online request form.
