While most fractures heal with appropriate treatment, some do not, leading to a condition known as a nonunion. Arm nonunions can be painful, limit mobility, and require specialized care to restore function.
At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, our team provides advanced care for fracture nonunions. We offer personalized treatment plans to help patients regain strength and mobility after trauma. Call us today to schedule a consultation!Â
An arm nonunion happens when a broken arm bone does not heal after a fracture despite standard treatment. In normal bone healing, blood supply and bone tissue work together to repair the fracture site. However, in some cases, this process is disrupted, leading to a nonunion.Â
Arm nonunions can occur in any of the bones in the arm, including the humerus, radius, and ulna, and they can cause chronic pain, weakness, and decreased function if not addressed.
Arm nonunions can occur for several reasons, often due to disruptions in bone healing. Factors that can prevent or delay fracture healing include:
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing an arm nonunion, including:
The symptoms of an arm nonunion can vary, but common signs include:
Diagnosing an arm nonunion involves a thorough clinical examination and diagnostic imaging. Physicians typically use X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the fractured bone and determine if the bone healing process has stalled.Â
A physical examination helps identify symptoms like tenderness or instability at the fracture site. In some cases, your doctor may also assess blood flow to ensure the fractured bone is receiving an adequate blood supply.
Treatment for arm nonunions often depends on the severity of the nonunion and the specific circumstances of the fracture. Several approaches may be recommended.Â
Non-surgical treatments include the following:
At times, the following surgical treatments may be necessary:
While surgery is sometimes the most effective solution, the decision is made based on individual factors such as the location of the fracture, the patient’s overall health, and the risk factors for impaired fracture healing.
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If you are experiencing persistent pain or difficulty after an arm fracture or wrist fracture, you may have a nonunion. Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, with locations in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, specializes in diagnosing and treating complex fracture nonunions.Â
Our expert team can help guide you through the best treatment options to restore function and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in your recovery after trauma.
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