Occupational specialties in orthopedics include surgery, podiatry, chiropractic care, and veterinary medicine. While each of these denotes a specific orthopedic specialty, orthopedic jobs can also include jobs that do not require a medical degree. An occupational therapist, an orthopedic nurse, or an orthopedic physician’s assistant are just a few examples. However, all jobs in the field of orthopedics necessitate varying levels of medical training with a focus on musculoskeletal care.
An orthopedic physician is one of the most common types of orthopedic specialties. Doctors who specialize in the care and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries, defects, or disorders are known as musculoskeletal specialists. Many physicians who work in this field choose to specialize as orthopedic surgeons, who perform surgeries to correct musculoskeletal problems. Working with elderly populations in geriatric orthopedics and working with children in pediatric orthopedics are two other specialties relevant to orthopedic jobs for physicians.
Physicians and others interested in corrective medicine frequently pursue orthopedic podiatry specialties. Podiatrists can work in a general practice setting, and many of them collaborate with orthopedic physicians and surgeons on a regular basis. However, some podiatrists also specialize in orthopedics. Sports medicine or pediatric orthopedics are common occupations for people working in these types of orthopedic jobs.
Orthopedics is a specialty of some occupational therapists. Many of them work in hospitals or rehabilitation clinics. Athletes, as well as aging populations, are frequently seen people working in these orthopedic jobs. Occupational therapists who specialize in orthopedics help patients regain strength, balance, and coordination while also collaborating with doctors to treat other musculoskeletal problems.
Chiropractors frequently work in the orthopedic field. Many of them work in orthopedic hospitals and rehab centers. While all legitimate chiropractors are trained in aspects of orthopedic medicine, some choose to devote their postdoctoral education solely to this specialty before obtaining specialist certification in this field.
Other types of orthopedic jobs include orthopedic nurse positions and orthopedic physician’s assistants, in addition to doctors. Individuals must be trained in aspects of orthopedic medicine in order to assist other orthopedic specialists, in addition to the general training required for either of these professions. Many begin their careers in a general practice setting before deciding to pursue additional orthopedic training or experience.
However, not all orthopedic jobs are concerned with the human musculoskeletal system. An orthopedic veterinarian, for example, is a veterinarian who focuses on the treatment and rehabilitation of animals who have congenital birth defects, diseases, or have been injured in an accident. Veterinarians who specialize in this field of medicine, like doctors who work with humans, must complete extensive orthopedic training before working in this field.