The medical specialty of orthopedics focuses on the musculoskeletal system, including the body’s bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. This system provides structure, permits movement, and protects internal organs. Physicians specializing in this field diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions ranging from acute sports injuries to chronic degenerative diseases like arthritis.
The Terminology Explained
The terms “orthopedist” and “orthopedic surgeon” refer to the same medical professional who has completed the rigorous orthopedic residency training program. Every physician who completes this specialized residency is fully trained in surgical management, qualifying them to be called a surgeon. The title “orthopedist” is often used as a convenient shorthand or to emphasize a focus on non-surgical treatment methods in their day-to-day practice.
The inclusion of “surgeon” differentiates this specialist from other medical professionals, such as physiatrists or chiropractors, who do not perform surgery. Because their training is inherently surgical, all orthopedic specialists possess the capability and credentials to perform operations when necessary. Therefore, if a patient consults an orthopedist, they are consulting a physician who is also an orthopedic surgeon, regardless of the terminology used.
Comprehensive Scope of Practice
The range of care provided by these specialists is broad, integrating various surgical and non-surgical techniques. For patients suffering from degenerative joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, initial treatment often focuses on non-operative methods. These may include prescribing anti-inflammatory medications, recommending physical therapy regimens, or administering joint injections.
Joint injections can involve corticosteroids to reduce local inflammation. Another option is viscosupplementation, where gel-like substances are injected into the joint space, often the knee, to improve lubrication and shock absorption.
When non-surgical treatments fail to provide adequate pain relief or restore function, the orthopedic surgeon can offer operative solutions. For advanced joint degeneration, procedures like total joint replacement, such as hip or knee arthroplasty, are frequently performed to replace damaged cartilage and bone with prosthetic implants. The specialist also manages acute trauma, including the surgical repair of complex fractures using plates, screws, and rods to stabilize the bone. Sports injuries, such as meniscal tears or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures, are often addressed using minimally invasive arthroscopy to repair soft tissue damage.
Educational Pathway and Credentials
Becoming a qualified orthopedic specialist requires an extensive educational commitment that spans over a decade. After completing four years of medical school (earning an MD or DO degree), the physician must secure a residency position. The orthopedic residency program is an intensive five-year period of post-graduate training focused entirely on the surgical and non-surgical management of musculoskeletal conditions.
Following the completion of residency, many orthopedic surgeons pursue an optional fellowship, which is an additional one to two years of specialized training. These fellowships allow the surgeon to gain expertise in a subspecialty like hand surgery, orthopedic trauma, or sports medicine. The final step is achieving board certification, which involves passing rigorous written and oral examinations.