Bright white hair and an energetic look suggest there is an inner fire burning in the man whose career has spanned four decades.

He works 80 to 100 hours a week as a surgeon and researcher. He’s received numerous awards, published more than 150 articles and presided over several esteemed organizations. But listening to the Ignacio V. Ponseti Chair and Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at University Hospitals speak, one might realize Stuart Weinstein is still   motivated by his work and captivated by life.

He gets up at 4 a.m. every day to jog a three- to four-mile route through dowtown Iowa City.

“I jog for physical fitness and exercise. I feel great in the morning. It’s my only time for myself. I listen to the radio, and get all my news. I feel invigorated about the day,” said Weinstein, adding that he knows he should cross-train more because it is better for joints.

His eyes light up speaking about the “sheer verticality” of a climbing adventure last summer, one of the most thrilling moments in his life. Weinstein climbed the Grand Tetons — a technical assent. At 59, he said he and two fellow climbers were 30 years older than anyone else in the group.

However, when speaking about his profession, Weinstein finds his comfort zone.

“When I see patients, I feel really comfortable in advising   parents about what is the best treatment. As parents make decisions that affect children’s lives, it gives me a sense of comfort to know I can provide solid advice. It gives me a sense of peace,” he said.

Weinstein has focused on spinal deformity in children, children’s hip and foot   problems, and the natural history and long-termoutcome of pediatric musculoskeletal conditions.

“I love taking care of children because they want to get better. They are not trying to get back to work. They just want to be well. They give you faith in humanity,” he said.

Born and raised in Chicago, Weinstein moved to Iowa City in 1968. He has edited three textbooks, is the president of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery and has won several awards, including the esteemed Alfred R. Shands Award    presented to someone who has made significant contributions to orthopedics over their career.

— Brian Morelli

Previous | Next