Definition & Meaning of "orthopedics"

What is "orthopedics"?

Orthopedics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of bone and muscle disorders and injuries. Specialists in this field treat conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the body. They provide care for a wide range of issues, including fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal deformities, and conditions present at birth. Orthopedics involves both surgical and non-surgical treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, braces, and orthotic devices, to improve mobility, ease pain, and restore function to the skeletal system.