Find information
by body part
POPULAR
About Us
Featured
Spanish Translations
We are committed to providing accurate and reliable health information for our readers who speak Spanish. Click here for a list of articles and other resources on the OrthoInfo website that have been translated into Spanish.
resource
Explore
What is FAAOS?
Searching for a reputable orthopaedic surgeon to treat your musculoskeletal injury, condition, or disease? Start by looking for the letters “FAAOS” (Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons) after a doctor’s name.
article
Learn more
OrthoInfo Basics Handouts
These printable PDF handouts address some of the most common musculoskeletal conditions and treatments in plain language designed to maximize reading comprehension. Basics can be customized with a doctor's practice logo and details.
handout
Learn more
Diseases & Conditions
Featured
Herniated Disk in the Lower Back
A herniated disk is a condition that can occur anywhere in the spine but most often occurs in the lower back. It is sometimes called a bulging, protruding, or ruptured disk. It is one of the most common causes of lower back pain, as well as leg pain, or sciatica.
article
Learn moreShoulder Pain and Common Shoulder Problems
Because so many structures make up the shoulder, it is vulnerable to many different problems and injuries — from inflammation to tendon tears to fractures.
article
Read
Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become thinner, weaker, and more likely to break. More than half of all adults 50 age and older in the U.S. are either living with or have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis as they age.
article
Read
Overuse Injuries in Children
In recent years, doctors have begun to see a significant increase in overuse injuries in children. Overuse injuries occur over time, when an athletic activity is repeated so often that the body doesn't have enough time to heal between playing.
article
Read
Popular
Treatment
Finding the Right Orthopaedic Surgeon
These tips can help you find a quality orthopaedic surgeon to treat your musculoskeletal condition, injury, or disease.
article
Learn more
Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow arthroscopy is used to visualize and treat many problems inside the elbow joint. It may be recommended if you have a painful condition that does not respond to nonsurgical treatment.
article
Read
Preparing for joint Replacement Surgery
By planning ahead for your joint replacement procedure, you can help to ensure a successful surgery, recovery, and rehabilitation.
article
Read
Featured
Reverse Total Shoulder Replacement
Reverse total shoulder replacement may be a good option for patients with large rotator cuff tears who have developed a complex type of shoulder arthritis called cuff tear arthropathy.
video
Watch
Osteotomy of the Knee
Knee osteotomy is used when a patient has early-stage osteoarthritis on one side of the knee joint. By shifting weight off of the damaged side of the joint, an osteotomy can relieve pain and improve function.
article
Read
Popular
Recovery
Popular
Staying Healthy
Starting an Exercise Program
The toughest and most important step in an exercise program is getting started. Following some basic guidelines can help you establish an exercise program that protects you against disease and disability and ensures a healthy, independent, and productive life.
article
ReadCalcium, Nutrition, and Bone Health
The health and strength of our bones rely on a balanced diet and a steady stream of nutrients — most importantly, calcium and Vitamin D.
article
Read
Helmet Safety
No matter what your age or level of experience, you should always wear a helmet whenever you ride a bike or scooter, in-line skate, snow ski, or engage in other activities where your head is vulnerable to injury.
resource
Explore
Athletic Shoes
Wearing the appropriate athletic shoe for specific sports activities can improve your comfort and performance, as well as help to prevent injuries.
article
Read