Orthopedics is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Bone fractures
• Bursitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Clubfoot
• Foot pain
• Hip pain
• Knee pain
• Ligament injuries
• Muscle strains
• Osteoporosis
• Scoliosis
• Sports injuries
• Tendonitis
• Tumors of the bones and joints

Orthopedic surgeons also perform joint replacements, such as hip replacement and knee replacement surgery. These surgeries can help to improve pain and function in people with severe arthritis.

Here are some of the benefits of orthopedics:

• Pain relief. Orthopedic surgery can help to relieve pain from conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and sports injuries.
• Improved function. Orthopedic surgery can help to improve function in people with conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and scoliosis.
• Prevention of further injury. Orthopedic surgery can help to prevent further injury in people with conditions such as ligament tears and bone fractures.
• Enhanced quality of life. Orthopedic surgery can help to improve quality of life by reducing pain, improving function, and preventing further injury.

If you are experiencing pain or dysfunction in your musculoskeletal system, it is important to see an orthopedic surgeon to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Orthopedic surgeons can help you to get back to the activities you enjoy and live a pain-free life.

Here are some examples of when you might need to see an orthopedic surgeon:

• You have severe joint pain or stiffness.
• You have difficulty walking or moving your joints.
• You have a bone fracture.
• You have a sports injury.
• You have been diagnosed with osteoporosis.
• You have a spine disorder such as scoliosis or stenosis.
• You have a tumor of the bone or joint.

If you are unsure whether you need to see an orthopedic surgeon, you can always talk to your family doctor. They can help you to decide if an orthopedic referral is right for you.