Seikeigeka

Seikeigeka, or orthopedics, is a medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. The field covers bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and related structures, and it encompasses both conservative management and surgical procedures. Clinicians in this specialty manage acute injuries such as fractures and dislocations, chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and degenerative spine disease, congenital deformities, and sports-related injuries. They also address complex reconstructive problems following trauma or illness and participate in rehabilitation planning.

Common procedures and areas of focus include fracture fixation with plates and screws, joint replacement (hip, knee, shoulder), spine surgery (discectomy, fusion), arthroscopic procedures, tendon and ligament repairs, bone grafting, and osteotomies. Pediatric orthopedics addresses growth-related conditions such as scoliosis and clubfoot. Subspecialties frequently recognized within the field include hand surgery, foot and ankle surgery, spine surgery, trauma, and sports medicine, as well as broader areas like joint replacement and arthroplasty.

Education and professional practice typically involve medical school followed by a residency in orthopedics, with many clinicians pursuing fellowships in subspecialties. Board certification and ongoing continuing medical education are common requirements. In Japan, the term seikeigeka is widely used to denote this practice, and practitioners are often affiliated with national and regional orthopedic associations that oversee training standards and professional governance. Internationally, orthopedics is a core medical specialty with standardized training pathways and multidisciplinary collaboration across hospitals and clinics.