Overview of orthopedics / The orthopedic teamWhat is orthopaedics?The word orthopedic comes from two Greek words:· ortho meaning straight· pedia meaning childrenOrthopedics is the branch of medicine dealing with diseases, injuries, and conditions of the musculoskeletal system - relating to the muscles and skeleton of the body, including joints, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. The proper title of this medical specialty is orthopedic surgery, although orthopedics is a generally accepted term. Who treats orthopedic conditions? Orthopedic conditions may be treated by your doctor and/or other medical specialists and healthcare providers. Multiple doctors from different medical specialties may be involved in the treatment at the same time. This multidisciplinary team approach is especially important in managing the symptoms of an orthopedic condition, especially because many symptoms are chronic and change in severity over time. Some of the most common medical professionals involved in the treatment of orthopedic conditions may include the following: · Primary Care Physician A primary care physician is a physician who has specialized education and training in general internal medicine, family practice, or other primary care physician level. treatment area. Primary care physicians are those who provide patients with any or all of the following services: o routine health care (including annual physical exams and vaccinations) o treatment for acute medical conditions o initial care for conditions that may become more serious or chronic in natureWhile your family doctor your doctor can treat and/or diagnose your illness, he or she can refer you to a specialist for more specialized treatment of some aspects of an illness. · Orthopedic surgeon The doctor who specializes in orthopedic surgery is called an orthopedic surgeon or sometimes simply, an orthopedist. Orthopedists are trained in the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, which includes (but is not limited to) diagnosing a condition or disorder, identifying and treating an injury, providing rehabilitation to an affected area or function, and establishing a prevention protocol for inhibit further damage to the musculoskeletal system. a diseased area......middle of paper......sp; assist children and adults in learning to carry out daily activities or conduct group or individual treatment to help children and adults in a mental health center learn to cope with daily activities or recommend changes in the layout and design of the home or of school to allow children and adults with injuries or disabilities greater access and mobility Occupational therapists work in a variety of different settings, including: · hospitals · rehabilitation centers · schools · home care agencies · private practices · agencies · Podiatrist A podiatrist specializes in foot care and is licensed to prescribe medications and perform surgeries. · NursesNurses who specialize in orthopedic conditions can assist your doctor in providing care to you. Additionally, these nurses will help you understand your treatment plan and can answer many of your questions.