The word fracture is most often applied to bones of living creatures, or to crystals or crystalline materials, such as gemstones or metal. Depending on the substance which is fractured, a fracture reduces strength (most substances) or inhibits transmission of light (optical crystals).
A fractured bone in a living person is treated by immobilization with a plaster or fiberglass cast, and in some cases surgical screws, plates and wires to supplement a cast. Operative methods of treating fractures have their own risks and benefits and should be carefully considered before embarking on the intervention.
See also: fibrocartilage callus