Pioneering orthopedic surgeon who developed innovative treatments for bone and joint disorders, particularly tuberculosis of the spine.
Lewis Yocum, a renowned American orthopedic surgeon, is best known for his groundbreaking work in sports medicine, particularly in the field of baseball. By repairing injuries that once would have ended the careers of several Major League Baseball players, Yocum earned a coveted reputation as a savior of sorts, allowing athletes to extend their playing days and achieve new heights.
Born on November 8, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Yocum pursued his undergraduate degree at Western Illinois University, graduating in 1969. He then went on to earn his medical doctorate at the University of Illinois in 1973. Completing his internship and residency at Northwestern University in Chicago, Yocum set the stage for a career that would revolutionize the world of sports medicine.
Yocum's work in sports medicine specialized in shoulder, elbow, and knee injuries. His collaborations with Frank Jobe, who performed the original Tommy John surgery, further solidified his reputation as a leading authority in the field. As a panel reviewer for the American Journal of Sports Medicine, Yocum's expertise was sought after by numerous dance companies in Los Angeles, and he served as a specialist consultant to many organizations.
In partnership with Frank Jobe, Yocum co-founded the Los Angeles Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, where he worked alongside Jobe for 35 years. This clinic became a hub for athletes seeking treatment for sports-related injuries, and Yocum's work played a significant role in the careers of many baseball legends.
Yocum's impact on baseball is immeasurable. He worked with some of the biggest names in the sport, including pitchers Ted Lilly, Stephen Strasburg, and C.J. Wilson, as well as outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury, slugger Kendry Morales, and infielder Dustin Pedroia. His expertise extended the careers of these athletes, allowing them to continue playing at the highest level.
In May 2013, the Los Angeles Angels named their training room in Yocum's honor, with pitcher Jered Weaver placing a placard with Yocum's name above the room's door in the clubhouse. This tribute was a testament to the respect and admiration Yocum earned from the baseball community.
Lewis Yocum passed away on May 25, 2013, at the age of 65, following complications from liver cancer. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth B. Yocum, and their two children. Yocum's legacy extends far beyond his remarkable career in sports medicine, as he leaves behind a lasting impact on the world of baseball and the lives of the athletes he touched.
Lewis Yocum's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and innovation. His contributions to the world of sports medicine will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
Born in 1925
Pioneering orthopedic surgeon who developed the revolutionary "Tommy John surgery" to repair damaged elbow ligaments in baseball players. His innovative procedure has saved countless careers in professional sports.
96 Years Old
Developed influential theories in combinatorial mathematics, particularly in the field of partition theory, and authored numerous papers on the subject.
