Orthopedics
Table of Contents
Orthopedics is a medical specialty focused on the musculoskeletal system, using surgical and nonsurgical methods to treat related injuries and conditions.
1. Overview
- Orthopedics treats the musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
- Orthopedists treat conditions from joint pain and fractures to congenital issues and sports injuries.
- Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, injections, and surgery when necessary.
- Orthopedists may specialize in areas like sports medicine, joint replacement, or pediatric orthopedics.
- Total joint replacement replaces worn joint surfaces with prosthetics to restore function.
- Arthroscopic surgery uses a camera to diagnose and repair joint problems with minimal incisions.
- Fracture repair surgery uses implants like rods and screws to stabilize severely broken bones.
- Bone grafting uses bone from the body or a donor to repair damaged bones.
- Spinal fusion joins vertebrae to correct spine problems like scoliosis or injuries.
- Becoming an orthopedist requires a degree, medical school, a residency, and board certification.