Research

A lot of people who match do not have any research. But they do have excellent credentials otherwise. with ortho being as competitive as it is, for many applicants, doing research seems to be a way to seperate themselves from the rest of the field. From my expirience, labs always need a med student do to some of the less attractive work, so finiding a spot can be as simple as asking around. Seemed to work for me and my friends. good luck.

You will need research experience only if you somewhat lack in the other credentials. The front door to ortho is Boards/grades, etc. The side door is research. Some people with good credentials also do some research to either make sure they get in or to attract some big shot place, but if your scores are solid just concern yourself in meeting the right people and getting the right letters, rotations, etc.