Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the care of the skeletal system and its interconnecting parts. These parts include the:
– bones
– muscles
– joints
– tendons
– ligaments

An orthopedist often works as part of a larger orthopedic treatment team. This team may include:

– physician assistants
– nurse practitioners
– occupational and physical therapists
– athletic trainers

What do orthopedists treat?

Orthopedists treat a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions may be present from birth, or they may occur as a result of 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 (muscle, tendon, and ligament) injuries
– back pain
– neck pain
– shoulder pain and problems, such as bursitis
– carpal tunnel syndrome
– overuse and sports injuries, including tendinitis, meniscus tears, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
– congenital conditions, such as clubfoot and scoliosis