Profile: Robert Schenck, MD

Biography

Dr. Robert “Bob” Schenck Jr. is a Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery with expertise in sports medicine and athlete care at The UTRGV School of Medicine. In addition to complex knee and shoulder surgery, Dr. Schenck has extensive experience in clinical and basic research, but especially enjoys working with research teams, mentoring students, and collaborating across departments, specialties, and levels of experience. He has also participated in clinical trials (STaR, Stability Trials). Dr. Schenck has a keen clinical interest in complex knee injuries, with multiple publications.

Dr. Schenck’s most recent work was at the University of New Mexico (UNM) as Department Chair of Orthopedics, Physical Therapy (PT), and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). He has over three decades of experience as a team physician and has enjoyed his work with the UNM Lobos (2000-2023) and the UTSA Roadrunners in San Antonio (1990-2000).

Dr. Schenck received his BA and Doctor of Medicine from Johns Hopkins University and completed his Orthopedic Residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital. He received his sports medicine fellowship training in Cincinnati as well as a sabbatical in foot and ankle surgery. He is board certified through the ABOS, is a member of AOSSM, AAOS, and was a travelling fellow and godfather for the AOSSM to South America. Dr. Schenck has been an examiner and question writer for the ABOS over the past twenty years, Associate Editor for the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (JBJS) for Arts and Humanities and Case Connector at the Journal. Dr. Schenck writes, edits, and reviews extensively, blending his interests with clinical work and practice.

In Dr. Schenck’s own words, “I especially enjoy teaching and working with medical students and residents. I am very excited to work with my department chair, Mike Sander, MD, to create a Sports Medicine Fellowship and Orthopedic Residency at UTRGV. With USMLE Step I transitioning to a pass/fail format, I have had great success mentoring medical students interested in performing a residency in musculoskeletal patient care, especially with mentorship, publications, clinical rotations, and strategy throughout their four years as a med student.”