The aim of orthopedic surgery (also known as orthopaedic surgery) is to treat musculoskeletal ailments ranging from arthritis and congenital deformities to more acute injuries. Most patients undergo orthopaedic surgery to correct problems with their knees, shoulders and hips or to treat fractured bones.

Orthopedic surgery continues to become less invasive as arthroscopic technology improves. Torn ligaments around the joint can be repaired without actually opening the effected area. As a result, many less serious orthopedic operations require very little recovery time.

Joint replacement (also known as arthroplasty) is another common procedure. During this procedure surgeons replace deteriorated joint surfaces (often hip or knee) with synthetic components made of metal, ceramic or plastic. After surgery, patients retrieve a great deal of mobility and suffer less pain than with traditional orthopedic operations.

Orthopedic science has long been associated with treating skeletal issues in children (the suffix, ‘-paedic’, means ‘child’ in ancient Greek). One of the most important functions of this medical practice is to correct spinal curvatures (scoliosis), bone deformities and potentially serious fractures in young children.

Recovery time following orthopedic surgery can vary greatly, and depends on the type of operation. Minimally invasive procedures have patients back on their feet in a relatively short amount of time, while more severe operations require rest and physical therapy before the patient can return to normal life. As doctors’ tools and technology improve, recovery time continues to decrease.