Orthopedics, also known as orthopedic surgery, is a medical specialty that focuses on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of conditions, including:
Sports injuries: Treatment and prevention of injuries related to athletic activities
Degenerative diseases: Treatment of conditions such as arthritis
Tumors: Treatment of benign and malignant tumors in bones, joints, and muscles
Congenital disorders: Treatment of conditions present at birth
Trauma: Treatment of injuries to the musculoskeletal system, including fractures, ligament tears, tendon tears, and joint dislocations
Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical treatments, and may specialize in a particular area of the body, such as the spine, foot and ankle, hand, shoulder, or elbow.