by Natasha Wolff | September 15, 2025 12:27 pm
For more than three decades, Dr. Rock Positano[1] has been redefining the field of foot and ankle medicine with a pioneering approach that avoids surgery whenever possible. Since joining the staff at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in 1991, he has become nationally recognized for his expertise in musculoskeletal podiatry, a discipline that emphasizes non-surgical diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the foot and ankle.
As Founder and Director of the Non-surgical Foot and Ankle Service and the Heel Pain Center at HSS, Dr. Positano[2] has developed treatment protocols that rely on physical therapy modalities and prescription foot orthoses to relieve pain and restore function. His approach extends beyond the foot itself, examining how biomechanical imbalances can contribute to issues in the knees, hips, and back—providing patients with comprehensive care that addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Dr. Positano first gained national attention when he was featured on the front page of The New York[3] Times in an article highlighting the dangers of cosmetic foot surgery. A prolific scholar as well as a clinician, he has authored and edited numerous peer-reviewed articles and served as editor of 12 medical textbooks covering topics from heel disorders to sports medicine. His academic contributions are matched by his distinction at Yale School of Medicine, where his thesis on foot health was awarded honors “With Distinction.”
Respected by both patients and peers, Dr. Positano’s philosophy prioritizes preserving mobility, functionality, and long-term well-being without invasive procedures. By combining clinical innovation with academic leadership, he continues to advance the field of podiatry, ensuring that countless individuals can walk, run, and move pain-free.
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