Trauma is defined as injury caused by an external source, and can often be life threatening. In the field of orthopedic medicine, trauma or orthopedic trauma is categorized as a severe injury to the elements of the musculoskeletal system (muscles, joints, ligaments, bones, and soft tissue). These trauma injuries are often the result of a sudden accident, like a fall, that requires immediate medical attention. While these injuries are not all life-threatening, they are life altering. Therefore, the help of an orthopedic surgeon is crucial. Orthopedic trauma physicians are unique because of the knowledge they have about the anatomy of the human body, while other orthopedic specialists may focus on one specific area. Orthopedic trauma physicians have received training in the field of orthopedic surgery with a specialized focus on the treatment of fractured bones and realigning joints, in order to promote the safe recovery and return of functionality to injured body parts. Therefore, these trauma surgeons often treat patients with multiple broken bones and fractures near a joint, like a hip, knee, or shoulder.