If you're a young person suffering from an issue that you think requires orthopedic surgery, don't be put off by skeptical doctors. Some may believe that you're too young to need orthopedic surgery, but that might not be the case; find someone willing to listen.

Orthopedic surgery isn't only used for bone problems these days. For example, conditions related to cerebral palsy, which causes tight muscles and spasticity, can be treated with surgery in which part of the tightened muscle is cut to render it more elastic.

Knees are a common target of orthopedic surgery. To keep them safe, follow these tips: learn to land square when participating in athletics; stretch properly before beginning any physical activity; and maintain a healthy weight for your height.