University of Virginia Health System

Site Index The Pediatric Orthopaedics Team Evaluation Procedures Congenital and Hereditary Disorders Growth-Related Disorders Inflammatory and Infectious Disorders Bone Cancer Fractures Crutch Walking Cast Types and Maintenance Instructions Sports Injuries Glossary Online Resources

Orthopaedics is the branch of medicine concerned with diseases, injuries, and other conditions of the musculoskeletal system. The musculoskeletal system consists of the body's bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.

Pediatric orthopaedics specializes in the management and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions that only affect children - from birth through adolescence. Children are not just small adults and they require very special care to address their needs as they grow and develop.

Healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive orthopaedic services specialize in the treatment and care of congenital and hereditary disorders, growth-related problems, inflammatory and infectious problems, fractures, and sports-related injuries.