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.

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