How Bones Heal
Bone is living tissue made up of cells. When a bone breaks, cells in the blood rush to the fractured area. These cells help grow new bone. Bones heal through a gradual process called remodeling. The length of this process depends on general health, age, the type of fracture and how well the injury is cared for.
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| The new bone grows stronger, even after a cast is removed. The fracture callus shrinks and remodels as the bone is used. |
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| The fibers are replaced by new bone. At first, the new bone is weak and spongy. This is called a fracture callus. |
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| Cells form a network of strong fibers inside the blood clot. These fibers hold bone fragments together. |
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| Tissues bleed around the fracture. This forms a blood clot in the space between bone fragments. |
Online Medical Reviewer:
Joseph, Thomas N., MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Turley, Raymond Kent, BSN, MSN, RN
Date Last Reviewed:
5/1/2018
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