What Is the Difference Between Orthopaedic & Orthopedic?
Clarifying the Spelling, the Specialty, and What It Means for Your Spine Health in NYC
In the world of modern medicine, language plays a critical role not only in communication but in public perception and patient education. One of the most commonly asked—and surprisingly confusing—questions patients encounter when researching care options is: What is the difference between “orthopaedic” and “orthopedic”?
At first glance, it may seem like a trivial matter of spelling. However, for patients navigating the healthcare landscape—especially those seeking a Spine Surgeon, NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon, or effective Back Pain Treatment in NYC—understanding the nuances of these terms can bring clarity and confidence when choosing care.
At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, led by renowned specialist Dr. Arutyunyan, we believe in not only providing world-class spine care but also educating our community. This blog will explain the origins, usage, and deeper implications of the two spellings, while demystifying what they mean for your orthopedic spine treatment in New York City.
The Origin of the Term: Orthopaedic vs. Orthopedic
The term “orthopaedic” was first coined in 1741 by French physician Nicholas Andry. He published a book titled Orthopaedia: or the Art of Correcting and Preventing Deformities in Children, derived from two Greek words:
- Ortho (ὀρθός) meaning “straight” or “correct”
- Paideia (παιδεία) meaning “rearing of children” or “education”
Originally, orthopaedics focused on correcting deformities in children—hence the etymological root referring to “straightening children.” Over time, however, the specialty evolved to address a broad range of musculoskeletal conditions in people of all ages.
When the term crossed the Atlantic to the United States, the spelling was eventually simplified to “orthopedic”, dropping the “a” in keeping with a general trend toward more phonetically intuitive spellings in American English.
Key Takeaway:
- Orthopaedic = Traditional British English spelling
- Orthopedic = Modern American English spelling
Are There Differences in Medical Practice Between the Two?
The short answer: No.
Whether you see the word spelled “orthopaedic” or “orthopedic,” the meaning and scope of the medical specialty remain exactly the same.
Both refer to the branch of medicine that deals with:
- Diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disorders of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles
- Surgical and nonsurgical interventions
- Specialized fields such as spine surgery, sports medicine, joint replacement, and pediatric orthopedics
In essence, the two terms are interchangeable in meaning. The difference is purely stylistic or regional.
That said, some institutions prefer one spelling over the other for branding or historical reasons. For instance:
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) uses the British spelling
- Most American hospitals and clinics use “orthopedic”
At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we use the American spelling in our branding to align with U.S. conventions, but we respect and understand both forms.
The Role of a Spine Surgeon in Orthopedic Medicine
One of the most critical subfields within orthopedic medicine is spine surgery. A NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon like Dr. Arutyunyan specializes in diagnosing and treating complex spinal conditions, including:
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
- Scoliosis
- Traumatic spinal injuries
- Chronic lower back pain
These conditions can be severely debilitating, affecting every aspect of a patient’s life—from mobility and sleep to mental health and career.
While non-surgical options are always considered first, spine surgery can provide life-changing results when performed by an experienced surgeon with a deep understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy and modern surgical techniques.
Common Reasons Patients Seek Orthopedic Spine Care in NYC
At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, we see thousands of patients from across the New York City metro area who are suffering from various spinal issues. The most common reasons patients come to us include:
Persistent back pain lasting more than three months, especially when unresponsive to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication.
Pain that radiates from the lower back down the leg due to nerve compression.
When spinal discs bulge or rupture, pressing on nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
- Spinal Instability
Conditions such as spondylolisthesis, where one vertebra slips over another, can cause significant discomfort and neurological symptoms.
- Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS)
Patients who have had previous spine surgeries but continue to experience pain or limited mobility.
Each of these conditions may be treated surgically or non-surgically depending on the severity and individual case factors. Our team offers personalized Back Pain Treatment in NYC rooted in evidence-based medicine and the latest technology.
The Importance of Choosing a Qualified Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
Not all back pain requires surgery—but when it does, choosing the right specialist is paramount. Here’s why patients across NYC trust Dr. Arutyunyan and Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics:
✅ Board-Certified Expertise
✅ Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive surgical approaches to reduce recovery time and scarring.
✅ Multidisciplinary Care
We collaborate with physical therapists, neurologists, and pain management specialists to ensure comprehensive care.
✅ Transparent Consultations
We educate patients at every step, helping them understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and expected outcomes.
✅ Advanced Imaging & Diagnostics
We use state-of-the-art imaging (MRI, CT scans) to diagnose the root cause of spinal pain accurately.
Does the Spelling Impact Insurance, Licensing, or Search Engines?
A frequent concern among patients is whether using “orthopaedic” versus “orthopedic” can impact insurance coding, licensing, or even internet searchability.
Insurance & Licensing:
No insurance company or licensing board distinguishes between the two spellings. Both are valid in all medical documentation and billing systems.
Online Searches:
From an online search standpoint, “orthopedic” is the more commonly used spelling in the United States. For patients looking for:
- Spine Surgeon NYC
- NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon
- Back Pain Treatment NYC
…using “orthopedic” will likely yield more targeted search results. This is why we’ve chosen to use the American spelling in our digital content at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics.
Still, our web presence is optimized to rank for both variants, ensuring all patients—regardless of search habits—can find the help they need.
How to Decide Which Spelling to Use
If you’re a patient or a healthcare professional wondering which spelling to use, here’s a quick guide:
| Context | Recommended Spelling |
| American medical practice | Orthopedic |
| British/Commonwealth usage | Orthopaedic |
| Institutional branding (e.g. AAOS) | Orthopaedic |
At the end of the day, both are correct. Choose based on your audience, location, and consistency of use.
Orthopedic Services Offered at Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics
While we specialize in spine care, our clinic also offers comprehensive orthopedic services for other areas of the back.
Conclusion: It’s Not About Spelling—It’s About Spine Health
When it comes to choosing between orthopaedic and orthopedic, remember this: spelling doesn’t affect the quality of care. What matters is the experience, reputation, and skill of the provider.
At Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Arutyunyan and our team of specialists are committed to delivering top-tier orthopedic spine care to the residents of New York City. We believe in demystifying medical terminology, empowering patients with knowledge, and offering innovative solutions for lasting relief.
So whether you search for an orthopaedic surgeon or an orthopedic spine specialist, let us be your trusted partner in spine health.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re dealing with back pain, spinal conditions, or need a second opinion on spine surgery, contact Big Apple Spine & Orthopedics to book an appointment with Dr. Arutyunyan—your premier NYC Orthopedic Spine Surgeon.
If you are experiencing back pain and seeking expert care from a leading NYC orthopedic spine surgeon, schedule a consultation with Dr. Arutyunyan today. Take the first step toward a pain-free life with the latest advancements in spine surgery.