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Stages of Bone Healing

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mary51013
mary51013

I found this info and thought it was interesting:

During Fracture Healing 

Fractures, or broken bones, are common injuries that orthopaedists treat. The healing process is generally the same for all fractures; through a series of stages, new bone forms and fills in the fractured area. If the fracture is severe, problems that slow the healing process can occur.

How does a fracture heal? 

Stage 1: Inflammation 

Bleeding from the fractured bone and surrounding tissue causes the fractured area to swell. This stage begins the day you fracture the bone and lasts about 2 to 3 weeks. 

Stage 2: Soft callus 

Between 2 and 3 weeks after the injury, the pain and swelling will decrease. At this point, the site of the fracture stiffens and new bone begins to form (see figure). The new bone cannot be seen on x-rays. This stage usually lasts until 4 to 8 weeks after the injury. 

Stage 3: Hard callus 

Between 4 and 8 weeks, the new bone begins to bridge the fracture. This bony bridge can be seen on xrays. By 8 to 12 weeks after the injury, new bone has filled the fracture. 

Stage 4: Bone remodeling 

Beginning about 8 to 1 2 weeks after the injury, the fracture site remodels itself, correcting any deformities that may remain as a result of the injury. This final stage of fracture healing can last up to several years. 

The rate of healing and the ability to remodel a fractured bone vary tremendously for each person and depend on your age, your health, the kind of fracture, and the bone involved. For example, children are able to heal and remodel their fractures much faster than adults.

0 likes, 8 replies

8 Replies

  • Lamborghini_Gal
    Lamborghini_Gal mary51013

    Posted

    Hi Mary, that is really helpful information.  Thank you for sharing.  :-)

    Beth

  • jan30278
    jan30278 mary51013

    Posted

    Thanks Mary- interesting read!  
    • mary51013
      mary51013 jan30278

      Posted

      When I woke from surgery on August 6 with an erector set sticking up out of my foot my first question was how long until I am healed.  The answer was 12 weeks.  I was in shock because I had never had a broken bone before and never been in a (bad) car accident.  

      When I saw the description of how bone heals - I now understand and feel a bit more patient. 

    • monika01
      monika01 mary51013

      Posted

      Thanks Mary,

      I am understanding how healing works. I'm still, in shock and pain. Thanks for sharing info😇

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