Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system is made up of bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Why is Orthopedics Pursued?
Orthopedics treats the musculoskeletal system. This includes diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating deformities, abnormalities, and conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
Think of pediatricians and bones when you hear orthopedics. Ortho means bones and a pediatrician is a type of doctor. Therefore, when you put these two together, you should think of a bone doctor.
Real World Application
For example, in sports, knee injuries and ligament tears are very common. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most torn ligament, and depending on the severity of the tear, surgery may be required. This procedure will be performed by orthopedic surgeons. Similarly, if you ever seen anyone with a cast on their shoulder, arm, or wrist, it was likely put on by an orthopedist?
