Recovering from a broken bone

Osteoporosis doesn't affect the healing process of bone. So if you do break a bone, it can heal as normal.

Some broken bones need an operation to help them heal, while others get better on their own. A broken bone usually takes around 6 to 12 weeks to heal, although it can take longer.

There are things you can do to speed up the healing process, including:

• eating a healthy balanced diet, with plenty of protein
• avoiding smoking, which limits the blood supply to your bones
• resting and taking it slow.

We understand that breaking a bone can be painful and frustrating. If you're in pain right now, remember that in most cases, the pain does pass.

 

What will my recovery be like?

• Broken wrist – This should heal as normal within 6 to 12 weeks. Read more about recovering from a broken wrist.
• Spinal fracture – This is when a bone in your spine becomes compressed (squashed) after losing strength. Read more about recovering from a spinal fracture.
• Broken hip – A broken hip usually needs an operation to fix or replace the top of the thighbone. Read more about recovering from a broken hip.

 

Referral to a fracture liaison service (FLS)

At some hospitals, you may be referred to a fracture liaison service (FLS) after breaking a bone. The following film explains what an FLS is, and what to expect if you're referred to one.

 

Watch our webinar on living well with fractures:

If you're dealing with the long-term effects of broken bones, you may be interested in watching our webinar on living well with fractures. Leading experts Professors Emma Clark, Terence O’Neill and Karen Barker discussed ways to manage the impact of painful broken bones in September 2022 as part of our #BoneMatters series of events.

 

Watch our discussion:

We discussed the equipment that may be useful if you're living with fractures with Rheumatology Occupational Therapist Jacqueline Sherwood and Lead Volunteer Advocate Philippa Russell. This film is part of our #BoneMatters series of events