1.
orthopedic surgery; orthopedics
The branch of medicine dealing with the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, and muscles. In Japanese, this term refers specifically to orthopedics, not cosmetic surgery.
整形外科に行った。
I went to the orthopedic clinic.
腰が痛いので整形外科を受診した。
I visited orthopedics because my lower back hurts.
骨折の疑いがあるので、整形外科でレントゲンを撮ってもらった。
Since there was a possibility of a fracture, I had an X-ray taken at orthopedics.
The medical specialty dealing with bones, joints, muscles, and the musculoskeletal system. In Japanese, 整形外科 refers specifically to orthopedics (bones and joints), not cosmetic surgery.
IMPORTANT DISTINCTION:
Do not confuse with 美容整形 (cosmetic surgery). Despite both containing 整形, they are completely different fields. When Japanese people say they are going to 整形外科, they mean the bone doctor, not a plastic surgeon.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 整形外科を受診する: to visit an orthopedic clinic
- 整形外科医: orthopedic surgeon
- 整形外科専門医: orthopedic specialist
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 外科 — surgery (general); the broader surgical field
- 接骨院 — bonesetter's clinic (traditional, non-surgical treatment)
- 美容整形 — cosmetic surgery (different field entirely)