A bone fracture, also known as a break or crack, is a traumatic injury to the bone that requires surgery or other medical intervention to treat. It most commonly occurs in the thinner bones, such as in the hands and feet, but also commonly happens in the limbs. A bone fracture is typically accompanied by sharp, stabbing or throbbing pain, a deep bruise, physical deformity, swelling and a hot and a cold sensation. When the injury is serious, a splint, cast, or other immobilizing device may be used to protect and stabilize the break.