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Why do fractures generally heal faster in children than in adults?

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Internal structure of a human long bone — bone A long bone of the human body, showing a magnified cross section of the interior.

Fractures generally heal faster in children than in adults primarily because of the heightened activity of the periosteum, the dense fibrous membrane covering the bones.1

In children, the inner layer of the periosteum is particularly prominent and rich in osteoblasts, which are bone-producing cells. Following a fracture, these cells proliferate rapidly to form new bone, or callus, to bridge the fracture site. While adults retain these cells for ongoing bone remodeling, they are significantly more active and abundant during childhood, facilitating a much faster repair process.12

Additionally, children possess a greater capacity for bone remodeling, which allows the skeleton to effectively adjust its structure and shape to meet mechanical demands as it grows. In contrast, adult bone tissue is more brittle and has a reduced capacity for such extensive remodeling, often resulting in slower healing times.23