Orthopedics

Orthopedics is the study of the human musculoskeletal system. The Greek word 'ortho' means straight or correct and 'pedics' comes from the Greek 'pais' meaning children. For many centuries, orthopedists have been involved in the treatment of crippled children. The term was coined in 1741 by the author of a textbook on the prevention of childhood diseases. Orthopedic doctors (also called Orthopedists or Orthopeds) specialize in diagnosis and treatment of problems of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system includes: bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. It is a main branch of surgery.

A number of professions offer non-surgical treatment options for many orthopedic problems, such as: physiotherapy, chiropractic, occupational therapy, podiatry, and kinesiology. Conditions requiring medication or surgical intervention are managed by orthopedic surgeons and podiatric surgeons.

Basic scheme for treatment of a compound fracture

ordered stages of treatment are -

1. Treatment of breach in the skin
2. Bone union
3. Vascular repair
4. Nervous system repair
5. Tendon and muscle repair

See also

• Buddy wrapping
• Massage
• Orthopedic surgery
• Podiatry
• Osteopathy
• Physical therapy