Is My Broken Bone Healing? Signs a Broken Bone Is Not Healing

Fractures usually follow a predictable healing timeline—but what happens when they don’t? If you’ve recently broken a bone and are wondering whether it’s healing properly, you’re not alone. Knowing the signs a broken bone is not healing can help you avoid long-term complications, chronic pain, and repeated injuries.

In this guide, we’ll break down the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available—especially if you live in South Jersey and need expert orthopedic or podiatric care.

Key Takeaways

• Most fractures heal within 6–12 weeks; delays may signal complications like nonunion or malunion.

• Common signs of poor healing include swelling, pain, instability, and visible deformity.

• Smoking, poor blood flow, or certain medical conditions can slow bone recovery.

• Podiatrists and orthopedic specialists can intervene early to correct or accelerate healing.

• Patients in South Jersey can get personalized bone injury care at Foot & Ankle Centers.
  

What Happens During Normal Bone Healing?

Bone healing is a complex biological process that involves inflammation, repair, and remodeling. When it’s working as expected, here’s what generally happens:

1. Week 1–2: Swelling, bruising, and early inflammation

2. Week 3–6: Callus formation and early tissue repair

3. Week 6–12+: Bone hardens, remodels, and regains full strength

Mild discomfort during healing is normal—but prolonged pain or swelling may indicate a problem. Learn more about the 5 stages of bone healing and what affects it, especially in lower extremity injuries.

Signs a Broken Bone Is Not Healing Properly

According to our guide on the 5 most common signs of poor bone healing, here’s what to look for:

1. Persistent or Worsening Pain

If pain continues beyond 8–10 weeks—or gets worse—it may signal nonunion (a failure to heal).

2. Visible Deformity

Crooked bones, bulging joints, or abnormal angling may point to malunion (healing in the wrong position).

3. Instability at the Fracture Site

Movement, clicking, or lack of firmness at the injury site is a red flag.

4. Ongoing Swelling or Inflammation

Swelling that lingers beyond 6 weeks, especially without activity, is concerning.

5. Numbness, Tingling, or Circulatory Changes

Coldness, discoloration, or numbness may indicate nerve or vessel involvement—seek help immediately.

Causes of Delayed or Failed Bone Healing

Several factors can impair the body’s ability to heal a fracture:

• Poor blood supply (especially in the feet and ankles)

• Smoking (significantly reduces bone regrowth)

• Unstable fixation (like a loose cast or early weight-bearing)

• Infection or open fractures

• Diabetes, osteoporosis, or vascular disease

In some cases, genetics or immune system dysfunctions also interfere with proper healing.

How Long Should a Broken Bone Take to Heal?

Most healthy adults see fracture healing within 6 to 12 weeks, depending on:

• Location (foot and ankle bones often take longer)

• Type of break (clean vs. shattered)

• Age and overall health

• Compliance with treatment (immobilization, rehab, rest)

Delayed healing is suspected when symptoms persist beyond 3 months without progress.

What to Do If a Bone Isn’t Healing Properly

If you suspect something is wrong, don’t wait. Here’s what you should do:

1. Schedule a follow-up X-ray or imaging scan

2. Speak with a podiatrist or orthopedic provider to assess healing

3. Avoid pressure or weight-bearing until cleared

4. Review your medications, lifestyle, and nutrition (calcium, Vitamin D)

5. Explore options like bone stimulators, revision surgery, or bracing

At Foot & Ankle Centers of South Jersey, our specialists offer conservative and surgical treatments to get you back on track—faster and safer.

Our South Jersey Team Can Help

If you’re recovering from a broken foot, ankle, or toe and it’s not healing the way it should, our providers can help. We offer compassionate, local care you can trust:

• Digital imaging and bone density evaluation

• Personalized treatment plans for nonunion and malunion

• Bone growth stimulation and regenerative therapies

• Surgical consultation when needed

FAQs: Signs a Broken Bone Is Not Healing

• What are the four reasons a bone may not heal properly?

  Poor blood supply, infection, inadequate stabilization, and underlying medical conditions (like diabetes or smoking) are the top causes.

• What are signs my bone is healing correctly?

  Diminishing pain, decreasing swelling, improved strength, and normal X-rays over time are positive signs.

• Does a broken bone hurt when it is healing?

  Yes—mild soreness or discomfort is normal, especially during early healing. Persistent or increasing pain may signal a problem.

• What happens after 4 weeks of a fracture?

  You may start to see early callus formation and reduced swelling. However, fragile tissue is still forming, and full strength hasn’t returned yet.

• When should I see a podiatrist for a slow-healing foot or ankle fracture?

  If pain or swelling lasts longer than 6–8 weeks, or if your foot feels unstable or looks misshapen, contact a specialist for evaluation.

Concerned Your Broken Bone Isn’t Healing?

Don’t wait and risk permanent damage. Whether you’ve had surgery, a cast, or a walking boot, the team at Foot & Ankle Centers of South Jersey is here to help.

Book a follow-up today and get the answers, and support, you need to heal right.