Slow Healing Fractures: Concerns and Military Exemptions

Fracture

Hello, I would like to ask a question for a friend.
The bone near the ankle in the lower leg has been fractured (the thinner bone is the one that broke).
It has been almost nine months since the incident, and although treatment has been ongoing, half of the bone has still not healed.
Consequently, after walking a short distance, there is swelling, pain, and bruising.
A week ago, he was drafted, but the pain in his foot has become so severe that he can hardly walk.
Can he apply for exemption from military service? Is bone healing typically slow? He is very concerned that even after healing, he might walk abnormally or experience any long-term complications.
Thank you!

Xing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/12/01

Dr. Luo Zhaozhong reply Orthopedics

Hello! The text likely refers to the fibula, right? The general management of fibula fractures indicates that if the fracture is within 5 centimeters of the ankle, complete reduction and stable fixation are required.
Whether surgery is necessary depends on the degree of displacement.
Bone healing can be significantly observed in about three months, and typically, good healing can be seen around nine months.
If healing is not satisfactory, it may indicate poor reduction or malnutrition, among other factors.
Generally, fractures cannot be exempted from military service, but a deferment can be requested.
Whether there are any sequelae after healing requires a detailed assessment to provide an answer.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Luo Zhao-Chung, Orthopedics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2002/12/01

More Info

When dealing with slow-healing fractures, particularly in the context of military service, there are several important considerations to address. First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the nature of bone healing and the factors that can influence it.

Bone healing is a complex biological process that typically occurs in several stages: inflammation, repair, and remodeling. The duration of healing can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of fracture, the location of the injury, the patient's age, overall health, nutritional status, and the presence of any underlying medical conditions. In your friend's case, a fracture near the ankle that has not healed properly after nine months raises concerns about the healing process.

The fact that your friend is experiencing pain, swelling, and bruising after walking indicates that the fracture may not be healing as expected. This could be due to inadequate blood supply to the area, improper alignment of the bone fragments, or insufficient immobilization during the healing process. Additionally, psychological factors such as stress and anxiety can also impact healing, as they may affect nutritional intake and overall well-being.

Regarding military service, many countries have provisions for individuals who are unable to serve due to medical conditions. If your friend is experiencing significant pain and functional limitations due to the slow healing of the fracture, it may be possible to apply for a medical exemption from military service. This process typically involves providing medical documentation from a healthcare provider that outlines the condition, the treatment received, and the prognosis for recovery. It is crucial for your friend to communicate openly with military medical personnel about their condition and any limitations they are experiencing.

As for the concern about long-term effects, it is not uncommon for individuals with slow-healing fractures to experience residual issues, such as chronic pain, stiffness, or altered gait. These complications can arise if the fracture heals improperly or if there is a failure to regain full strength and mobility in the affected limb. Engaging in physical therapy and rehabilitation can be beneficial in addressing these issues and improving overall function.

To support the healing process, your friend should focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, as these nutrients are vital for bone health. Additionally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also promote better healing outcomes. If your friend is experiencing significant emotional distress related to their injury, seeking support from mental health professionals may also be beneficial.

In conclusion, slow-healing fractures can have a profound impact on an individual's life, particularly for those in physically demanding roles such as military service. It is essential for your friend to seek appropriate medical advice, consider applying for a medical exemption if necessary, and engage in rehabilitation to optimize recovery. Open communication with healthcare providers and military personnel will be key in navigating this challenging situation.

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