As we honor Women's History Month, it's fitting to spotlight Dr. Ruth Jackson, a pioneering force in orthopaedic surgery. Born on December 13, 1902, near Scranton, Iowa, Dr. Jackson's journey from a determined young woman to the first female board-certified orthopaedic surgeon in the United States is both inspiring and groundbreaking.
Early Life
From an early age, Dr. Ruth Jackson showed determination. After her family moved to Texas when she was 14, she pursued higher education at the University of Texas at Austin. Originally majoring in sociology and economics, an encounter with a man suffering from debilitating knee pain ignited her passion for medicine.
Journey Into Medicine – Glass Ceilings Broken
In 1924, Dr. Jackson graduated from University of Texas and continued her studies at Baylor College of Medicine. Among only four women in a class of over 100 students, she faced significant challenges. Female students were prohibited from examining male patients and were expected to achieve grades ten points higher than their male counterparts to earn equal standing. Dr. Jackson was not discouraged, and she graduated eighth in her class in 1928.
Dr. Jackson wanted to specialize in general surgery, but gender bias at the time pushed her toward orthopaedics—a field where she made a lasting impact. She trained under Dr. Arthur Steindler at the University of Iowa and focused on patients afflicted by polio.
In 1937, Dr. Jackson shattered another glass ceiling by becoming the first female member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Her pursuit of excellence and dedication to her patients earned her this historic recognition.
A Lasting Legacy in Orthopaedics
Dr. Jackson's legacy extends beyond her lifetime. In 1983, the Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society (RJOS) was founded in her honor. This organization is dedicated to promoting the professional development of women in orthopaedics, ensuring that her pioneering spirit continues to inspire future generations.
Dr. Ruth Jackson's story is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of equality in medicine. Her contributions have paved the way for countless women in orthopaedics, and her legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for all, doctors and patients alike.
