Orthopaedia

Orthopaedia, or orthopaedics, is the branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, and the spine. Conditions range from congenital deformities and sports injuries to degenerative diseases and tumors, and management can involve nonoperative care, physical therapy, and surgical procedures designed to restore function and relieve pain.

The term orthopaedia originates from Greek orthos, meaning straight, and paideia, meaning education or rearing. It was popularized in the 18th century by French physician Nicolas Andry in his book Orthopaedia: or the Art of Correcting and Preventing Deformities in Children (1741), which is often cited as the founding moment of the medical specialty. Over time the meaning broadened from pediatric deformity correction to the wider field covering the entire musculoskeletal system.

Modern orthopaedics encompasses multiple subspecialties, including pediatric orthopaedics, trauma and fracture care, spinal disorders, joint replacement and arthroplasty, sports medicine, and musculoskeletal oncology. It employs nonoperative approaches such as bracing and physical therapy, as well as operative techniques including fracture fixation, arthroscopy, spine stabilization, limb lengthening, and joint arthroplasty. Advances in imaging, anesthesia, robotics, and regenerative medicine have influenced practice and outcomes.

Education and professional practice typically require a medical degree followed by specialized residency training in orthopaedic surgery, with optional fellowships in subspecialties. Professional organizations, journals, and accredited training programs support ongoing research, guideline development, and standards of care worldwide.