The term "orthopedics" originates from two Greek terms: "ortho," meaning 'straight,' and "paedia," denoting 'children.' It pertains to the medical field focused on addressing ailments, traumas, and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, encompassing muscles, skeleton, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
Orthopedic physicians specialize in both preventative measures and surgical interventions for musculoskeletal issues.
Orthopedic Surgery: Experts argue that the precise term for this medical specialization should be "orthopedic surgery," rather than "orthopedics." However, "orthopedics" is the commonly acknowledged and accepted term for this purpose.
Within the realm of specialists, orthopedic surgery comprises physicians and other healthcare practitioners who offer comprehensive orthopedic services. This field of expertise focuses on treating and managing diseases, injuries, fractures, and pain.
A significant number of patients seek care from orthopedic physicians each year for a variety of disorders and medical conditions, including arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), bursitis, elbow conditions (cubital tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow), fibromyalgia, foot pain and issues, fractures, low back pain, hand pain (carpal tunnel syndrome), knee pain and issues (ligament injuries, torn meniscus), neck pain and problems such as osteoporosis, among others.