A bone nonunion primarily feels like persistent discomfort and instability at the site of a broken bone that has failed to heal properly. The key sensations are often a continuation or worsening of symptoms well past the expected healing time for a fracture.
Key Sensations of a Bone Nonunion
When a bone nonunion occurs, the body is unable to bridge the gap between the broken bone fragments, leading to ongoing symptoms that indicate the healing process has stalled or failed.
You might experience:
- Persistent Pain: Unlike the pain of a healing fracture that gradually diminishes, the pain associated with a nonunion can be chronic, localized to the fracture site, and may even worsen with activity or weight-bearing. This pain can manifest as:
- A dull, aching sensation.
- Sharp pain with specific movements or pressure.
- Throbbing.
- Localized Swelling: There may be persistent swelling around the area where the bone was broken. This swelling often doesn't subside as it would in a normally healing fracture, indicating ongoing inflammation or fluid accumulation.
- Tenderness: The affected area will feel sore and sensitive to the touch. Even light pressure on the skin or muscle over the nonunion site can elicit discomfort or pain.
| Symptom | How It Might Feel |
|---|---|
| Pain | Persistent ache, sharp jabs with movement, or throbbing at the fracture site. |
| Swelling | Noticeable puffiness or enlargement that doesn't decrease over time. |
| Tenderness | Sensitivity and soreness when the area around the fracture is touched or pressed. |
Understanding Nonunion Symptoms
These symptoms occur because the bone fragments remain separate, preventing the natural healing process that would typically create new bone tissue to bridge the gap. The persistent pain, swelling, and tenderness are signals that the body is still responding to an unhealed injury, often leading to reduced function and mobility in the affected limb.
For more information on bone healing and related issues, you can consult resources like the Cleveland Clinic.
