Orthopedics

Orthopedic medicine is the care of the musculoskeletal system. This system of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves makes it possible for your body to move.

An orthopedic specialist can be a medical doctor (MD) or a physician assistant (PA) who fixes injuries, such as broken bones, torn ligaments, separated shoulders, sprained ankles or strained muscles.

Other health problems treated by orthopedic specialists include:

• conditions like arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome
• difficulties related to cerebral palsy and osteoporosis
• back problems, such as herniated disk, low back pain and sciatica
• clubfoot, scoliosis or other limb or spine deformities
• toe, foot and ankle problems like bunions and hammer toe.

Related Resources

Orthopedic surgeons

Allina Community Pharmacies

Allina Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment

Allina Medical Transportation

Total hip replacement

Total knee replacement

Locations

Allina clinics: Orthopedic services

Abbott Northwestern's Orthopaedic Institute

Buffalo Hospital: Orthopedic rehab

Cambridge Medical Center: Orthopedic doctors

Mercy Hospital: Orthopedics

Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute

United Hospital: Orthopedic services

Unity Hospital: Orthopedics

First published: 04/22/2007
Last updated: 06/21/2010

Reviewed by: Steven Bergeson, MD, medical director of quality, Allina Hospitals & Clinics; J Richard Sheely, MD, medical director, Quello Clinic