Delayed/Non-union Fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of delayed union may include:

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Tenderness

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Swelling

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Aching pain

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Weakness

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Visible bump beneath the skin

Causes

The causes of delayed union may include:

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Nutritional status- Malnutrition

E

Metabolic- Diabetes

E

Smoking, tobacco and alcohol use

E

Activity level

E

Use of NSAIDs

E

Fracture characteristics- open, infected, segmental, comminuted by severe trauma

E

Treatment factors- Insecure fixation, insufficient immobilization, fixation in distraction.

E

Inadequate blood supply

Diagnosis

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X-Ray- An x-ray can show the space between the bone fragments. If the space remains between the pieces of bone more than a few weeks it’s possible that new bone tissue did not form.

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CT Scan- It’s to confirm that the fracture is not healing.

E

MRI Scan- It can reveal inflammation with an infection.

E

Blood Tests- To rule out infection or nutrient deficiency leads to lack of bone healing.

E

Detailed history, physical examination and assessment the therapist can understand the condition.

Treatments

Our Musculoskeletal Wellness & Rehabilitation Program incorporates an advanced modality called Pulsed Cell Repair Therapy (PCRT). PCRT directs a series of electromagnetic impulses through injured tissue. Each pulse induces a tiny electrical signal that stimulates cellular repair, and harnesses the body’s own ability to heal itself. This natural signal promotes the body to repair damaged or worn bone/tissues/cartilages and to maintain healthy and proper functioning of the joint.

The treatment session is typically 9 to 12 days, first 9 days should be continuous without interval followed by a 3 to 4 week break before starting muscle strengthening exercises. Because of the regenerative process, patient is advised for rest without any vigorous movements in the joint.

Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), which is another advanced modality for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and its very effective in delayed union and non-union fractures. ESWT uses sound waves (high amplitude pulses of mechanical energy) to breakup infected tissues and stimulate the healing process. The energy triggers the regeneration and reparative processes of the bones, tendons and other soft tissues. ESWT is used to treat chronic, sub-acute and acute conditions. After the shockwave session, Cryotherapy is advised to avoid muscle soreness.

Elements of Musculoskeletal Wellness Program

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Extracorporeal Shockwave

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Pulsed Cell Repair

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Electrotherapy & Pain management

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Exercises

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Nutrition & Diet Management

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Lifestyle Management

N

Ergonomics Guidance

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of a delayed or non-union fracture? Common symptoms include tenderness, swelling, aching pain, weakness, and a visible bump beneath the skin at the fracture site.

What causes delayed or non-union fractures? Contributing factors include malnutrition, diabetes, smoking, tobacco or alcohol use, activity level, NSAID use, the type of fracture (open, infected, segmental or comminuted), insecure fixation, and inadequate blood supply.

How is a delayed union fracture diagnosed? X-rays check for persistent space between bone fragments; a CT scan confirms non-healing, and an MRI or blood tests can rule out infection or nutrient deficiency.

How is it treated at Maana Health? The Musculoskeletal Wellness Program uses Pulsed Cell Repair Therapy (PCRT), which directs electromagnetic impulses through the injured tissue to stimulate the body’s own bone-repair process, typically over a 9 to 12 day session.