Advancing Musculoskeletal
Health Through Evidence-Based
Orthopedic Research and Education
An open access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the advancement of musculoskeletal health through scientific research, scholarly activity, and education rooted in osteopathic principles.
Open Access
Accessible to All
Publication Frequency
3 Issues per year
Online ISSN
2996-1742
Print ISSN
0740-0923
Publisher
American Osteopathic
Academy of Orthopedics
About JAOAO
Mission
Our mission is to advance musculoskeletal health by providing a dynamic, online platform that promotes scientific research, supports scholarly activity, and delivers high-quality education grounded in evidence-based studies and rooted in osteopathic principles.
Aim and Scope
Journal of American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics (JAOAO) critically evaluates and synthesizes up-to-date information on the diagnosis and management of musculoskeletal conditions, reflecting the current state of orthopedic practice and patient care. The journal publishes review articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, scientific articles and clinical trials, surgical techniques, case reports, and commentary/perspectives and letters to the editor. These articles are for the benefit of orthopedic surgeons at all levels of their careers, from residency on, as well as orthopedic researchers and healthcare professionals with an interest in orthopedics.
Review Articles
Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis
Scientific Areticles and Clinical Trials
Surgical Techniques
Case Reports
Commentary
Current Issue
- Volume
- Number
- Spring 2026
Ethical & Transparency Requirements
All manuscripts must include the following statements within the manuscript file (even if “Not applicable”):
- IRB/Ethics approval or exemption
- Consent to participate (or waiver)
- Consent for publication (required for case reports and identifiable images)
- Conflict of Interest statement
- Funding statement
Manuscripts missing these statements may be returned prior to peer review.
Editorial Leadership
Steven J. Heithoff, DO, MBA, FAOAO
Editor-in-Chief
Zachary C. Lum, DO
Assistant Editor-in-Chief
Michael G. Saper, DO, FAOAO
Assistant Editor-in-Chief
Publication Schedule
Publication depends on the amount of revision necessary. Multiple revisions, or delay in completing revisions by the author, will lengthen the process. The JAOAO strives for efficiency and charges its Editors with a timely review process. Authors will be notified when their submission has been accepted for publication.
Only submissions received online through this portal that have NOT been published, or are being considered for publication, by any other print or online publication will be considered. Please read through the guidelines carefully to ensure your submission meets all the necessary criteria.
Reach Orthopedic Professionals Nationwide
Any advertising within the JAOAO does not constitute an endorsement of the product or service by the advertisers. For information about advertising, contact Joye Stewart at [email protected].
Disclaimer
The views expressed in the JAOAO are those of individual authors and are not necessarily those of the JAOAO or AOAO. The information contained within the journal is not medical advice intended to replace the skill, knowledge or judgement of practicing physicians. Neither the JAOAO or AOAO can accept any responsibility for any harm or damage that may be a result of the material presented within the JAOAO.