There are two bones below the knee, the tibia and fibula, and a fracture, occurring in one or both of them from a fall or direct violence, is a frequent accident, the tibia being most frequently broken. The signs are evident. Crepitation, pain, want of motion, etc., declare it.

TREATMENT. -- When both bones are broken, or when the fibula alone, or when the upper part of the fibula is fractured, the best and most simple apparatus is the fracture-box and pillow. Make a box considerably wider than the leg, with only one end board, and that considerably higher than the sides of the box -- the box has no lid. Put a pillow, or little bags of chaff or bran in this; put the broken leg into this; see that it fits well; then secure the foot to the foot-board, so as to prevent lateral inclination.

The great object in the treatment of fractures is to keep the broken ends well together, or in apposition, and keep them there. Nature will do the healing part. In bandaging limbs, be careful that you get them smoothly on the parts, and make allowances for the swelling which occurs. If a bandage is formed too tight, it should be removed, or else mortification of the limb will ensue.