What Do Orthopedic Surgeons Specialize In?

by Brooke Julia, studioD

Orthopedic surgeons are highly trained physicians who specialize in diagnosing and treating maladies of the musculoskeletal system, says the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This system involves everything your body uses when you're moving and being active, including your muscles, bones, tendons and nerves. An orthopedic surgeon may address such conditions as injuries, arthritis, birth defects and tumors. This specialty was once devoted entirely to children, but is now open to people of all ages, from infants to the elderly.

Education and Licensing

Orthopedic surgeons have spent as many as 14 years in training before becoming licensed, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The first four years are spent pursuing a bachelor's degree at a four-year college, and the next four are spent in medical school. Graduates then move into residency programs in real hospitals where they administer care to patients under the supervision of an expert. Orthopedic residency programs last five years. Once residency ends, candidates must pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination in order to practice independently, and then pass examinations given by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons to be accredited in their specialty. Orthopedic surgeons continue their educations throughout their careers to stay relevant.


There are many areas of subspecialties within the field of orthopedics, including wrist, hip, pediatrics and trauma, but the American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes and provides certifications in just two subspecialties: hand surgery and orthopedic sports medicine. Each subspecialty requires an additional year of training at the end of residency. Hand surgeons deal with injuries and diseases of hands, wrists and forearms, says the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, while those who concentrate on sports medicine address the injuries and concerns unique to athletes. Surgeons must pass rigorous examinations before they can become certified in either of these subspecialties.

Patient/Physician Relationship

Despite what their job titles suggest, orthopedic surgeons don't just perform surgeries. They examine their patients to discover the correct diagnoses and create treatment plans to restore health and mobility. A treatment plan can involve surgery, or it may involve medicine, therapy or exercise, with surgery being the last option if all else fails. Orthopedic surgeons oversee their patients' rehabilitation and recovery, and implement plans to prevent further injury or to slow down disease progression.

Common Procedures

Orthopedic surgeons employ a variety of surgical techniques to treat patients, depending on the specific ailment or injury. Common procedures include: arthroscopy, where tiny cameras are used to create pictures from inside joints; fusion, where broken or separated bones are welded together; internal fixation, where bones are held in place by metal rods or bolts during the healing process; soft tissue repair; and joint replacement.

About the Author


Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Suggest an Article Correction