Orthopaedic
15 Oct
Orthopaedic medicine is the speciality concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of problems related to the musculoskeletal system; this includes the muscle, joints, connective tissue and bones.
History of orthopaedics
Historically, orthopaedic medicine was focused on the treatment of crippled children; however the field has expanded greatly over the centuries and orthopaedic specialists now treat patients of all ages and encounter all different kinds of conditions, injuries and diseases.
Modern orthopaedic medicine involves technology and advanced scientific research; there are also elements of engineering in modern orthopaedics, as researchers and doctors look for medical innovations to treat damaged bones and joints and facilitate better movement.
Examples of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment may involve many different approaches, procedures and therapies; orthopaedic specialists provide both surgical and non-surgical treatment. Examples of surgical treatments include:
- Joint replacement, for example a hip or knee replacement
- Joint fusion (known as androthesis)
- Keyhole surgery (known as arthroscopy)
- Ligament reconstruction and repair
- Re-alignment of a bone (known as osteotomy)
Examples of non-surgical treatments may include:
- Physiotherapy
- Pain relief and medication
- Orthotics (this may include splints, braces and specialist types of footwear)
- Exercises
- Steroid and painkilling injections
Orthopaedic products
There are many different orthopaedic products on the market now; these difference devices and products help to restore the movement and flexibility of joints and support bone growth. Products may range from artificial joints to surgical tools and artificial bone graft substitutes.
