Leon Root

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Leon Root
NationalityAmerican
OccupationOrthopedic surgeon
Known forPioneering work in pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine


Leon Root was an American orthopedic surgeon renowned for his contributions to pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine. He served as the Chief of Pediatric Orthopedics at the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York City and was a professor at the Weill Cornell Medical College.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Leon Root was born in New York City. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Florida and earned his medical degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the Hospital for Special Surgery.

Career[edit | edit source]

Root joined the Hospital for Special Surgery in 1967, where he became the Chief of Pediatric Orthopedics. He was instrumental in developing new techniques for the treatment of cerebral palsy and other pediatric orthopedic conditions. He also made significant contributions to the field of sports medicine, particularly in the treatment of injuries in young athletes.

Contributions to Medicine[edit | edit source]

Leon Root was a pioneer in the use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of spasticity in children with cerebral palsy. He also developed innovative surgical techniques for the correction of scoliosis and other spinal deformities. His work has been widely published in medical journals, and he has authored several books on pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine.

Awards and Honors[edit | edit source]

Throughout his career, Root received numerous awards and honors, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons's highest honor, the Kappa Delta Award, for his research in pediatric orthopedics. He was also a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Leon Root was married and had three children. He was an avid supporter of various charitable organizations and was actively involved in community service.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Leon Root's contributions to the fields of pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine have had a lasting impact on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in children and young athletes. His innovative techniques and dedication to patient care continue to influence the practice of orthopedic surgery.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD