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About Orthopedics

Physicians who 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