post-traumatic limb shortening

Post-traumatic limb shortening occurs when a limb loses length after an injury, often due to broken bones that don’t heal properly or infections that damage bone tissue. When a fracture is severe or heals incorrectly (called a malunion), the limb can become shorter than its original length. This shortening can affect movement, cause limb imbalance, and sometimes lead to discomfort or functional problems. Treatment may involve surgery or procedures to restore limb length and improve function, depending on the severity of the shortening and patient needs.