
What is orthopedics?
Orthopedics, also known as orthopedic surgery, is a branch of medicine that focuses on the care of the skeletal system and its interconnecting parts. These parts include the following:
- bones
- muscles
- joints
- tendons
- ligaments
- nerves
What do orthopedists treat?
Orthopedists treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions may be present from birth, or they may result from an injury or age-related wear and tear.
Below are some of the most common conditions that an orthopedist may treat:
- joint pain from arthritis.
- bone fractures.
- soft tissue injuries, which are those that affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
- back pain.
- neck pain.
- shoulder pain and problems, such as bursitis.
- carpal tunnel syndrome.
- overuse and sports injuries, including sprains, tendinitis, meniscus tears, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears.
- congenital conditions, such as clubfoot and scoliosis.
- bone cancer.
What should I expect during my first appointment?
First appointments often include:
- Discussing your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle.
- A physical exam, including moving the affected joint in specific ways.
- Imaging studies, such as an X-ray.
- Explanation of your diagnosis.
- Treatment recommendations.