Fractured tibia. Coloured X-ray showing a fracture of the tibia (lower leg bone) with a metal plate supporting the bone and holding it in place while it heals. Plates are used when there is a compound or comminuted (shattered) fracture. It is important for bones to be correctly aligned, otherwise they will heal incorrectly. Most fractures are caused by an injury that exerts more force on the bone than it can withstand. Treatment includes X-raying & immobilising the break. Fractures of the tibia take 6 months to heal as it is a weight bearing bone.