The word
orthopaedic, sometimes spelled
orthopedic, comes from two Greek words:
Orthopaedics is the branch of medicine concerned with diseases, injuries, and conditions of the musculoskeletal system - relating to the body's muscles and skeleton, and including the joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves.
The proper title of this medical specialty is orthopaedic surgery, although orthopaedics is a generally accepted term.
Orthopaedic surgery is made up of physicians and other healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive orthopaedic services. Their expertise provides treatment and care of diseases, injuries, fractures, and pain. Orthopaedists also design rehabilitation programs for the physically disabled and participate in ongoing musculoskeletal research.