In Memoriam: Gregory E. Lutz, MD

We mourn the recent passing of Dr. Gregory E. Lutz, a beloved caregiver to thousands of patients and a friend, mentor and inspiration to many colleagues. As founder of the Physiatry Department at HSS, Dr. Lutz was one of the world's leading experts in regenerative sports medicine.

Dr. Lutz became the first Physiatrist-in-Chief at HSS in 1997 and was a Professor of Clinical Rehabilitation Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College. Under his 15-year leadership, the department grew to become one of the largest outpatient musculoskeletal practices in the world. He also established the Spine & Sports Medicine Fellowship, mentored more than 60 fellows, and was the Founder and Medical Director of the Regenerative SportsCare Institute (RSI) in Manhattan. As a former Assistant Team Physician for the New York Mets and a Consulting Physician to the NHL’s Players Association, he successfully treated professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, and ATP, in addition to business leaders, entertainers, and elite athletes of all kinds.

Dr. Lutz was a trailblazer in intradiscal biologic injections and the nonsurgical management of spine and joint injuries. He pioneered novel approaches to the treatment of degenerative disc disease and other musculoskeletal disorders, using regenerative procedures to successfully treat many injuries previously considered incurable.

Dr. Lutz earned his undergraduate degree at Drew University magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, and his medical degree from Georgetown.  He pursued his specialty training in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the Mayo Clinic before coming to HSS in 1992 to complete his training through an Orthopedic Sports Medicine Fellowship.

We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Lutz’s family and friends.