Orthopedics is the medical field dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. This includes the bones, ligaments, joints, tendons, nerves and muscles.

Orthopedic physicians diagnose the injury or disorder, treat it with medication, exercise or surgery, recommend exercise and/or physical therapy rehabilitation to restore movement and function, and provide information and treatment plans to prevent further injury. Orthopedists may specialize in one or several of the following areas: hand, foot, hip, knee, shoulder or spine, as well as trauma or sports medicine.