What to do in the event of an unhealed fracture, and how can photobiomodulation help?

When a fracture fails to heal properly, it is known as an unconsolidated fracture or pseudarthrosis. This problem can be very painful and severely restrict an individual's mobility. By opting for photobiomodulation, it is possible to alleviate the pain caused by the fracture and promote bone consolidation.

Unconsolidated fracture: what is it?

An unconsolidated fracture occurs when the broken bone fails to heal properly after a reasonable period of time. This can be due to a number of factors, such as poor blood circulation, infection, fracture instability or chronic illnesses such as diabetes.

In the case of an unconsolidated fracture, it's important to limit movements that could aggravate the problem, and to rest, to allow the body to concentrate on healing. Rest and immobilization with a splint or cast can help stabilize the fracture and prevent further injury.

A diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is also recommended to improve bone health. Dairy products, green leafy vegetables and oily fish are all sources of nutrients essential for healthy bone consolidation.

In addition to rest, immobilization and a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, therapies include physiotherapy, foot reflexology and photobiomodulation, an innovative technique that uses light to promote bone regeneration.

Photobiomodulation: an aid for non-union fractures

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive method using light at specific wavelengths to stimulate natural biological processes. This technology combines LEDs and lasers to penetrate tissues and contribute to bone consolidation.

How does photobiomodulation work?

Photobiomodulation works by stimulating the mitochondria, the energy centers of cells, to increase production of ATP, the cell's energy source. Among other things, this reduces inflammation and relieves pain.

In the case of non-union fractures, photobiomodulation can help the body accelerate bone regeneration.

The benefits of photobiomodulation for fractures

Photobiomodulation is a technique for :

• Reducing the pain associated with an unconsolidated fracture: PBM can help manage pain by altering its perception at the cellular level.
• Reduce inflammation: by reducing inflammation around the fracture, photobiomodulation can contribute to a more favorable environment for healing.
• Stimulating cells: cellular stimulation through photobiomodulation can shorten healing times by promoting tissue repair and bone regeneration.

Unlike surgery and conventional drug treatment, PBM is a non-invasive technique and generally has no side effects.

Regular photobiomodulation sessions

Photobiomodulation can be used in conjunction with other treatments, and sessions can be carried out in the clinic or at home, depending on the device used and the recommendations of the healthcare professional.

It's important to carry out PBM sessions on a regular basis to rapidly reap the benefits of this technique.

How do I carry out photobiomodulation sessions?

Initial assessment and personalized care plan

Before starting photobiomodulation sessions, a full assessment by a professional is essential to determine the most suitable protocol.

This assessment includes a medical history, physical examination and X-rays to evaluate the fracture condition, including pseudarthrosis. Based on the information obtained from the analyses, a personalized care plan is drawn up, including the frequency and duration of photobiomodulation sessions.

Implementing photobiomodulation sessions

Photobiomodulation sessions last between 20 and 30 minutes. Depending on the severity of the fracture and the results of the tests, they can be carried out several times a week.

Follow-up and adjustment

Regular monitoring of pseudarthrosis is important to assess the effectiveness of photobiomodulation and adjust the care plan, if necessary. Follow-up visits allow us to monitor the progress of bone consolidation, reassess fracture-related pain and mobility, and make adjustments.

This follow-up may also lead to additional recommendations, such as specific exercises after photobiomodulation sessions or dietary modifications to support bone consolidation.