Orthopedic Conditions - Types and Treatments

Orthopedic conditions encompass a range of issues such as arthritis and tendonitis that affect bones, joints, and muscles, often requiring medical intervention and management.

Orthopedic Conditions FAQ

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What are orthopedic conditions?

Orthopedic conditions are injuries and diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system. This body system includes the muscles, bones, nerves, joints, ligaments, tendons, and other connective tissues. Damage to any of these tissues or structures can come from chronic orthopedic diseases or from an injury.

What is orthopedic medicine?

Orthopedic medicine treats the musculoskeletal system. Healthcare providers in this field of medicine specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and therapy of conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and nerves in patients of all ages, from newborn babies to the elderly.

What causes orthopedic conditions?

Degenerative changes are another common cause of orthopedic conditions. Joints and joint structures can sustain wear and tear over time. This causes changes that can result in such conditions as osteoarthritis and spine problems. What are the risk factors for orthopedic conditions? Each specific orthopedic issue has its own set of risk factors.

Are orthopedic conditions treatable?

Orthopedic conditions are the most common reason people seek medical care, although not every patient with an orthopedic condition is seen by an orthopedic specialist. About a third of people in the U.S. have some type of musculoskeletal disorder, and that number is rising. The good news is that most of these conditions are treatable.

Where can I find a specialist orthopaedic consultant?

The specilaist societies below provide patient resources for specific orthopaedic conditions and procedures and can help patients find a specialist orthopaedic consultant. The British Elbow and Shoulder Society (BESS) has produced a variety of information to assist patients with shoulder or elbow conditions.

Why is orthopedic treatment so difficult?

Many common health problems make the management of orthopedic conditions much more difficult. Weight gain places tremendous stress on joints, and injured or worn-out joints almost always feel worse in heavier people. Smoking slows bone healing and can make recovery from treatment less successful and take longer.