The short answer
Delayed union means a fracture is taking longer than expected to heal; nonunion means it has failed to unite. Persistent symptoms need review with examination and imaging. The solution depends on why healing has stalled.
Understanding the problem
Bone healing needs stability, blood supply and adequate nutrition. Infection and other factors may interfere. Comparing images over time helps the clinician judge progress rather than relying on one scan or a fixed calendar deadline.
Care and next steps
Treatment may involve addressing health factors, improving stability or another procedure. Some patients need surgery, but the decision is individual. More supplements alone will not correct a mechanical or infectious cause of failed healing.
Prepare for your consultation
Collect the original injury images, operation notes and later follow-up films in date order. Record whether pain occurs at rest or with loading, and explain smoking or nicotine use honestly. Bring information about previous infection treatment. Ask what evidence supports the diagnosis, which factors can be changed and how the proposed treatment will be monitored over time.
Common questions
Is every slowly healing fracture a nonunion?
No. The clinician considers the expected course, symptoms and evidence of progression before making that diagnosis.
Medical sources & further reading
This patient education guide was approved for publication by Dr Shahrukh Khan on 11 September 2026. It cannot diagnose your symptoms or replace a personalised clinical assessment. Editorial policy · About the doctor.