Physicians that specialize in orthopedics focus on the diagnosis, care and treatment of the musculoskeletal system which includes:

• Bones
  
• Joints
  
• Muscles
  
• Ligaments
  
• Tendons
  
• Nerves
  
• Skin

Medical, physical, rehabilitation and/or surgery are used to treat orthopedic problems. Orthopedists work closely with other health care providers and often serve as a consultant to primary care physicians and other specialists.

Common conditions which require an orthopedist include:

• Fractures and dislocations
  
• Torn ligaments, sprains and strains
  
• Tendon injuries, pulled muscles and bursitis
  
• Ruptured disks, sciatica, low back pain and scoliosis
  
• Knock knees, bow legs, bunions and hammer toes
  
• Arthritis and osteoporosis
  
• Bone tumors, muscular dystrophy and cerebral palsy
  
• Club foot and unequal leg length
  
• Abnormalities of the fingers and toes and growth abnormalities

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