| Aspect | Orthopaedic Surgeons | Orthopedic Physicians |
|---|
| Credentials | Medical degree, orthopedic residency, board certification, surgical fellowship | Medical degree, orthopedic residency, board certification |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, surgical centers, clinics, performing surgeries | Clinics, hospitals, outpatient settings, primarily non-surgical care |
| Roles | Diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries on musculoskeletal issues | Diagnose and manage musculoskeletal conditions, often without surgery |
Orthopaedic Surgeons are specialized medical doctors trained to perform surgeries on the musculoskeletal system, while Orthopedic Physicians focus on diagnosing and managing musculoskeletal conditions, often through non-surgical methods. Both roles require extensive training, but Surgeons have additional surgical certification and perform operative procedures.