Difference Between Orthopaedic and Orthopedic

Understanding the Difference Between Orthopaedic and Orthopedic

Some words have similar meanings but are spelled differently. Two of these words are Orthopaedic and Orthopedic. Let’s learn about them!

History of the Words

The word Orthopaedic comes from Greek roots. It originally meant “straight child,” because doctors helped children with bone problems. Orthopedic is the same word, but spelled in a simpler way.

How to Use Them

Both words mean the same thing. They are used to talk about doctors and medicine that help fix bones and muscles.

Orthopaedic Usage

1. The hospital has a new orthopaedic department.
2. She visited the orthopaedic doctor for her knee pain.
3. My brother works in an orthopaedic clinic.
4. The orthopaedic team helped the injured athlete.
5. He needed orthopaedic surgery after the accident.

Orthopedic Usage

1. The orthopedic surgeon fixed his broken arm.
2. The clinic has many orthopedic specialists.
3. My first job was at an orthopedic hospital.
4. An orthopedic pillow helped him sleep better.
5. The new orthopedic ward opened last month.

Trick to Remember the Difference

If you are in the US, you will usually see Orthopedic. In other places like the UK, people often use Orthopaedic.

Summary

Both Orthopaedic and Orthopedic talk about bone and muscle care. In short, Orthopaedic is often used outside the US, while Orthopedic is more common in the US.