What Is the Difference Between Orthopedic and Orthopaedic?
The two terms orthopedic and orthopaedic are used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Orthopedic is the general term used to describe a medical condition or treatment that involves the use of orthopedic devices and techniques. Orthopaedics is the subspecialty of medicine that deals specifically with the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions.
The main difference between orthopedics and orthopedic devices is that orthopedics focuses on restoring function while orthopedic devices aim to correct the deformity. Orthopedics also includes rehabilitation, which helps people return to their prior level of activity by teaching them how to maintain their health and function. Devices used in orthopaedics include braces, casts, crutches, and prostheses.
