History Page: Leaders in MSK Radiology Howard L. Steinbach, MD (1918–1996)

Abstract

This history page in the series “Leaders in MSK Radiology” is dedicated to the achievements of American radiologist Howard L. Steinbach. He was considered one of the leading general as well as musculoskeletal radiologists in the world over the decades from 1950 to 1980. Steinbach's novel observations spanned the gamut from the thickness of the heel pad in acromegaly and the first scientific articles to describe many metabolic bone diseases, arthritides, and musculoskeletal dysplasias to suggesting that the barium enema bag be hung rather than placed below the radiology table to avoid infection. Steinbach dealt with progressive deafness that developed at an early age and became quite profound in his adulthood. Despite that disability, he was achieved great success and recognition from the radiology community.

Keywords

radiology - metabolic bone disease - musculoskeletal dysplasia - hearing impaired

Publication History

Received: 14 October 2025

Accepted: 16 October 2025

Article published online:
12 February 2026

• References

• 1 Steinbach HL, Burhenne HJ. Performing the barium enema: equipment, preparation, and contrast medium. Am J Roentgenol Radium Ther Nucl Med 1962; 87: 644-654
• 2 Steinbach H, Minagi H. The endocrines. In: Hodes PJ. ed. An Atlas of Tumor Radiology. Vol 2.. Chicago, IL: Year Book Medical Publishers; 1969
• 3 Steinbach HL, Gold RH, Preger L. Roentgen Appearance of the Hand in Diffuse Disease. Chicago, IL: Year Book Medical Publishers; 1975
• 4 Steinbach HL, Russell W. Measurement of the heel-pad as an aid to diagnosis of acromegaly. Radiology 1964; 82 (03) 418-423
• 5 Howard Steinbach Memorial Lecture. Available at: https://radiology.ucsf.edu/education/lectures/howard-steinbach . Accessed October 29, 2025
• 6 Margulis AR, Howard L. Steinbach, MD. In Memoriam. Radiology 1996; 200 (02) . Available at: . Accessed October 29, 2025