When does new bone grow after a fracture?

Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
Updated on April 12, 2025
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A fracture refers to the destruction of the integrity and continuity of bone, presenting symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, restricted movement, and deformity. Appropriate treatment should be chosen based on the extent of displacement and whether there is associated damage to significant blood vessels or nerves. Bone healing is a prolonged process. About two weeks post-injury, there will be an increase in osteoclast activity at the site, clearing away the necrotic ends of the fractured bone, thereby stimulating the formation of new bone. Approximately four to six weeks later, there will be a significant proliferation of osteoblasts, leading to the formation of new bone callus. Thus, new bone growth begins around four to six weeks after the fracture.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua
Orthopedic Surgery
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How long should one stay in bed with a rib fracture?

Rib fractures are mostly caused by trauma, such as direct or indirect force. Radiographic examination can basically confirm the diagnosis. A single rib fracture generally requires no intervention or special treatment, just immobilization is sufficient. However, strict bed rest is necessary. Typically, immobilization for about four weeks is needed until callus formation occurs. During this period, you should avoid deep breathing, heavy breathing, or coughing, and stay away from cooking fumes and smokers. Such irritative coughing might cause pain. A rib fracture will likely also result in intercostal neuralgia, which can be very troublesome and prolong the pain. However, fractures generally fully heal within eight to ten months. They can gradually heal without issues, but it is best to rest in bed for a month.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Rib fracture complications

Rib fractures often result from trauma and can involve a single fracture or multiple fractures in one rib. In severe cases, there might be multiple fractures across several ribs, causing a flail chest condition. Rib fractures initially lead to localized bleeding and swelling, making breathing difficult. This situation might also result in increased pleural effusion or hemothorax. In severe cases, it leads to significant breathing difficulties. Therefore, if a rib fracture occurs, it is advisable to visit the thoracic department of a formal hospital for medical consultation.

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Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of secondary lumbar vertebral fracture

It usually manifests as the patient experiencing significant lower back pain symptoms, and limited mobility in the lower back area, inhibiting walking. When the fracture is severe, it can cause damage to the patient's spinal nerves or cauda equina nerves, resulting in numbness, weakness, and pain in one or both lower limbs, and even weakness in extending the big toe or the ankle. The patient may feel a sensation of heat in the perineal region, and abnormalities in urination and defecation may occur, which in severe cases can lead to complete paralysis. These are common clinical symptoms of secondary lumbar spine fractures. Usually, a diagnosis can be confirmed with a regular X-ray, a local CT scan, and magnetic resonance imaging.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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What should I do if I have a fracture?

When a fracture occurs, temporary immobilization is needed to alleviate local pain and prevent further fractures during transfer. If there is an open wound, it should be bandaged and isolated from the external environment to prevent infection. If there are injuries to vital organs, life-saving measures should be administered immediately, followed by treatment of the fracture. Therefore, appropriate immobilization is necessary when a fracture occurs.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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How is a fracture treated?

The treatment of fractures involves three main principles: reduction, fixation, and functional exercise. First and foremost, a perfect reduction is required after a fracture. If the alignment of the fracture is not satisfactory, the fracture may require either closed or open reduction. After a successful closed reduction, if the fracture position is stable, fixation should be considered. Generally, following a successful closed reduction, a local application of a cast or splint can be done for external fixation. If the results of closed reduction are not satisfactory, surgical open reduction may be needed. In such cases, internal fixation, possibly with steel plates, steel pins, or intramedullary nails among other methods, is necessary. These first two points cover the need for reduction and effective fixation—including both external and internal fixation. After proper fixation, the fracture can gradually heal. During the healing process, active functional exercises are needed to prevent muscle atrophy and joint adhesion. To avoid disuse of the limb, muscle atrophy after removing the cast, whether it be a leg or an arm, functional exercises are imperative. Thus, the three principles of fracture treatment are reduction, fixation, and functional exercise, requiring professional care by medical experts in accredited hospitals.