Objective To review the research progress of the osteogenic effect of strontium (Sr) and its application in the orthopaedics. Methods The recent literature concerning the osteogenic effect of Sr and its application in orthopaedics at home and abroad was extensively reviewed, and the research and development were summarized. Results Both in vivo and in vitro studies showed that Sr could enhance bone formation and inhibit bone resorption. Clinically, Sr was applied for treatment of osteoporosis, composite biomaterials in tissue engineering, and treatment of bone tumors and bone metastases. Conclusion Sr is one important combined element of alternative materials in bone tissue engineering, and can strengthen the mechanical and biological properties of the bone replacement material, so it has some development potential in bone tissue engineering.