Adult reconstructive orthopaedics includes the in-depth study, prevention, and reconstructive treatment of musculoskeletal diseases, disorders, and sequelae of injuries by medical, physical, and surgical methods in patients 17 years and older.

An educational program in adult reconstructive orthopaedics may include the care of arthritis and related disorders in many anatomic regions or be limited to areas such as the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, or ankle and foot.