The Fibula is the small bone on the outside of the limb: the lower ends of the tibia and fibula form prominent projections at the sides of the ankle.
The Tarsus, ankle-bones, are seven irregular shaped bones, firmly united together; above they are attached to the tibia and fibula, and in front to the metatarsus.
The Metatarsus forms the instep, and together with the tarsus the arch of the foot.
The Phalanges, bones of the toes, are fourteen in number, two for the great toe, and three for each of the others.
These bones are liable to be broken, dislocated, or fractured by violence. Fractures or broken bones, they are usually divided into four classes, which are termed—
1.—Simple fracture, a simple break.
2.—Compound fracture, a flesh wound commencing with the broken ends of the bone.
3.—Complicated fracture, injuries to soft parts, blood vessels, nerves, or internal organs.
4.—Comminuted fracture, smashing of bones into pieces.
They vary very much in extent and form. Some are very simple indeed, and there is but little perceptible looseness of the ends of the fractured part or sign of fracture. A case of this kind might easily be mistaken for a mere contusion, which has often been done. Bones are often broken obliquely, and with sharp points, and require skilful treatment both in reduction and the application of splints. Compound fractures, of course, require care and skill, but many fractures are so easy to understand and rectify, that all is required is a little common sense treatment.
The SYMPTOMS of fracture are:—1. Alterations in shape and general appearance (plate V., fig. 88., pp. xix).—2. Unusual mobility at seat of fracture.—3. Crepitus or crackling in placing hand over the broken part and creating motion with the other.—4. Shortening of limb.—5. Some inequality felt on moving the fingers along the surface of the injured bone.
These have to be distinguished from dislocations, and in doing so, the following facts must be remembered:—