Thigh Bone Fracture Healing Time and Recovery

The healing rate of a femoral fracture?

I would like to ask the doctor, I have been dealing with a fracture for two and a half months, and on August 24, it will be three months.
However, I am still using crutches.
Below are the X-ray images I have taken so far:
1.
The first image is from May 27, two days after the surgery.
2.
The second image is from June 15, the first follow-up X-ray.
3.
The third image is from my follow-up on July 13.
4.
The fourth image is from my recent follow-up on August 10, two and a half months post-surgery.

The doctor mentioned that it seems the bone is not healing very quickly.
I would like to ask the doctor if this really indicates slower healing.
Given this situation, will I have the opportunity to use one crutch during my follow-up appointment on September 7 (three and a half months post-surgery)? Additionally, if I do start using one crutch, how long does it typically take before I can stop using crutches altogether? I need to return to work on September 4 (my job is office-based and does not require much walking), but I am concerned about the inconvenience of taking the bus.
Thank you, doctor, for your assistance!

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/16

Dr. Li Yongheng reply Orthopedics

It is generally normal to use crutches for three months after a femoral fracture.
A follow-up appointment is scheduled for September 7, during which an X-ray will be taken to assess the possibility of using a single crutch.
If a single crutch can be used, it typically takes about one month before transitioning to no crutches, but you should primarily follow the advice of your attending physician.
Whether you can return to work on September 4 will need to be discussed with your attending physician during the follow-up on September 7.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2017/08/16

More Info

When it comes to thigh bone fractures, particularly those that are complex or involve multiple fractures, understanding the healing process and recovery timeline is crucial for both the patient and the healthcare provider. Based on your situation, you have been dealing with significant injuries and surgeries, and it’s understandable to have concerns about your recovery.

Thigh bone fractures, or femoral fractures, can vary widely in terms of healing time depending on several factors, including the type of fracture (e.g., simple, compound, or comminuted), the patient's age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Generally, a femoral fracture can take anywhere from 12 to 16 weeks to heal adequately, but this can be longer for more complex fractures or if there are complications such as delayed union or non-union.

From your description, it seems that you are currently at the two-and-a-half-month mark post-surgery. If your doctor has indicated that the bone does not appear to be healing as quickly as expected, this could be due to several reasons. Factors such as the severity of the fracture, the presence of any underlying health conditions (like osteoporosis or diabetes), nutritional status, and even smoking can all impact bone healing.
In your case, since you are still using crutches and have not yet transitioned to partial weight-bearing, it’s essential to follow your orthopedic surgeon's advice closely. They will monitor your healing through regular X-rays and clinical assessments. If your next appointment is on September 7, it will be crucial to discuss your concerns about the healing process and your ability to transition to using a single crutch or walking unaided.

If your doctor gives you the green light to start using a single crutch, this typically indicates that the fracture is healing well enough to allow for some weight-bearing. However, the timeline for completely abandoning crutches can vary. Many patients can transition to walking without assistance within a few weeks after starting to use a single crutch, but this is highly individual.
Regarding your return to work on September 4, if your job is primarily sedentary and does not require extensive walking, you may be able to manage with crutches or a single crutch, especially if you can arrange for assistance with transportation. However, it’s essential to prioritize your recovery and not rush the process, as doing so could lead to complications that might prolong your healing time.

In terms of rehabilitation, it’s vital to engage in physical therapy as soon as it is safe to do so. This will help improve your range of motion, strength, and overall function of the affected leg. Your physical therapist can provide you with exercises tailored to your specific needs and monitor your progress.

In summary, while it’s natural to be anxious about your recovery timeline, it’s essential to focus on healing properly. Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team, adhere to their recommendations, and be patient with your body as it heals. Each individual’s recovery journey is unique, and with the right care and rehabilitation, you can work towards regaining your mobility and returning to your daily activities.

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