36 Across
NYT Daily • August 14, 2025
Muscle-and-bone doc
Answer:
ORTHO
Hint:
This medical specialist often treats fractures and joint replacements.
Explanation:
"Muscle-and-bone doc" is a casual way to refer to an orthopedic surgeon, who specializes in bones, joints, and muscles. The answer "ORTHO" is a common abbreviation for orthopedic—often used in medical settings or informal speech. The clue plays on the everyday term "doc" (short for doctor) to keep it simple and relatable.