Orthopedic – a definition

Despite writing numerous posts on this blog, I have never defined what orthopedic actually means, which is perhaps the first thing that I should have done. So here is a definition courtesy of thefreedictionary.com.

“The branch of medicine that deals with the prevention or correction of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments.”

The word would appear to be derived from the French language and, in English, can be spelt as either, orthopedic (the more usual American way), or orthopaedic (the conventional English UK way).

I always adopt the more simplified spelling that omits the pointless ”a” for the simple reason that I believe in phonetic spelling – which is ironic as the very word itself is a contradiction of it own meaning and should really be spelt “fonetic”.

If you want a series of definitions, descriptions and explanations, try http://www.answers.com/topic/orthopedics this link.

Many of the products that I highlight are not only orthopedic in their intended injury/pain/discomfort target, but very much aimed at orthopedics concerned with the spine. This is probably because, aside from injuries, problems with the back and spine are the most frequently occurring orthopedic difficulties and they are also the ones where improved posture and support have the biggest benefit. There are also more products aimed at this sector than any other and, with the spine having such a broad influence on skeletal health, this seems logical.