What is the primary field of study focused on bones?

The primary field of study that focuses specifically on bones is osteology. Osteology is the branch of anatomy that deals with the structure, function, and diseases of the skeletal system. This discipline encompasses the study of the human skeleton as well as that of other animals, detailing the characteristics and relationships of bones within the body.

Osteopathy, while related to the treatment of bone and muscle conditions, specifically refers to a branch of medicine that emphasizes the role of the musculoskeletal system in health and disease and does not exclusively focus on bones themselves. Orthopedics is a medical specialty concerned primarily with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, including bones but also joints, ligaments, and muscles. Pathology studies the causes and effects of diseases, which can involve bones but is not solely dedicated to them. Thus, osteology is the most accurate choice for the study of bones.