Prof. Margareta Nordin

Founding Leader of SPINE20

Prof. Margareta Nordin was a pioneering figure in spine research, rehabilitation science, and global musculoskeletal health. A distinguished Research Professor in the Departments of Orthopedic Surgery and Environmental Medicine at New York University, she devoted her academic and professional life to advancing evidence-based spine care, improving functional outcomes, and reducing the global burden of spinal disorders.

Over the course of her remarkable career, Prof. Nordin authored more than 200 peer-reviewed scientific publications and several influential textbooks that became foundational references in spine and musculoskeletal health. Her work significantly advanced understanding of biomechanics, occupational spine health, rehabilitation strategies, and disability prevention. She was widely respected for bridging clinical practice, research, and public health perspectives in spine care.

Prof. Nordin’s leadership extended across the international spine community. She made history as the first woman to serve as President of both the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine (ISSLS) and EUROSPINE. Through these roles, she championed multidisciplinary collaboration, strengthened scientific standards, and mentored generations of spine professionals worldwide.

Her commitment to global health equity was a defining aspect of her career. Prof. Nordin was actively involved in major international initiatives aimed at expanding access to quality spine care, particularly in underserved regions. She contributed to global rehabilitation frameworks and worked to align spine health priorities with broader public health agendas.

As a founding leader of SPINE20, Prof. Nordin played a central role in shaping the initiative’s early vision and strategic direction. She strongly believed that spine health should be recognized as a major contributor to disability worldwide and advocated for its inclusion within the G20 policy dialogue. Through her work in education, policy development, and international engagement, she helped establish SPINE20 as a credible and influential platform advocating for evidence-based spine health policies, research advancement, innovation pathways, and improved access to care.

Prof. Nordin’s legacy is one of intellectual rigor, visionary leadership, and deep humanitarian commitment. Her contributions continue to guide SPINE20’s mission and inspire the global spine community to pursue excellence, collaboration, and equity in spine care.