I am grateful to Steve for what he has done not only for my right shoulder, which has been a source of chronic pain for two decades due to calcium deposits, but also for my lower back, which x-rays confirm has arthritis at several levels resulting in my specialist's conclusion that I have "thoracic spondylosis due to scattered areas of disc space narrowing and osteophyte formations being present throughout the thoracic spine". Before meeting Steve I had already received my quota of steroidal injections in my shoulder, which were wonderful for providing temporary relief, but I was also taking 30 mg of vicodin and 1000 mg of Nabumetone daily to try to reduce the pain in both my shoulder and my back.
After my first session with Steve I began to feel improvement, both physically and mentally, for Steve, after listening to my history, squeezed the section of my shoulder which I said was where I hurt, and said, "I can make that better". Following failed physical therapy and dreading elective surgery, I was uplifted by Steve's "can do" attitude. After I positioned myself on the table and Steve moved about me, he began to leave the room and I asked, "When do you put the needles in?" (since I hate needles). Steve told me they were already in and asked if I didn't feel an electrical current. Only then did I realize I was "hooked up" and receiving treatment.
I've been seeing Steve weekly for appointments that last an hour or so, and his treatments have vastly improved the quality of my life. My shoulder "works" again, and my back, which used to awaken me during the night with stabbing pain, has been silenced. Furthermore, when I last saw my doctor, my blood pressure was 119 over 68, unbelievable numbers for me. I told my primary care physician I was seeing an acupuncturist "on my own dime" for my shoulder and my back, and he was supportive (medically, not financially). When I told Steve about the improvement in my blood pressure, Steve's response was, "You should have mentioned your blood pressure: we can work on that, too." I suppose I could have gone through the hoops of being referred by Kaiser, but my ex-wife was referred by Kaiser Point West, which is where my primary care physician is, to an acupuncturist in Roseville. Following her quota of visits she felt her treatments were ineffective and didn't continue. I prefer to "pay my own way" with Steve because one can't put a price tag on the amount of relief I have received and the resultant improved quality of life I am enjoying.
As I mentioned earlier, Steve's "can do" attitude of addressing my shoulder, my back, and my blood pressure at the same time, coupled with Steve being an obviously extremely gifted acupuncturist, has turned my life around. At 68, I had lived with chronic pain for so many years that I had almost accepted that such would be my lot in life. As a high school teacher, I would write the outlines for the next day's lectures on my white board before leaving school as I knew the next day my shoulder would be locked in pain until midway though the day when the drugs "kicked" in and only then would I enjoy marginal movement. I hired people to clean my home, a gardener to mow and blow my lawn, and a neighbor boy to clean my rain gutters. I could no longer perform such routine chores. This weekend I've pruned a hedgerow between my neighbor's and my property with my old pruning shears and am able to sit at my computer and keyboard this statement re: my acupuncturist experience with Steve Phillips. I have no idea if I will continue to see Steve for a month, a year, or for the rest of my life: that's something he and I haven't discussed. All I know is that he has truly made me feel "whole" again as well as a whole lot younger than I felt when I first walked through his door.
Had anyone told me that one day I, who is frightened by needles, would one day visit an acupuncturist, much less write a testimonial in which I heap sincere praises and gratitude for said acupuncturist's many gifts and incredible knowledge, I would have said, "You're crazy". Life is full of surprises and gifts, and I know that in addition to the healing one must remain open to receiving such gifts and reinvigorating surprises. Steve began his practice here in 1991: my only regret is that I wasn't among his first patients/clients. To think that twenty years ago I could have been relieved of all the unnecessary pain and accompanying suffering I've experienced is a reality I accept since Steve's office is literally close enough to my home that I pass by it once a week.
Jerry Waugh
At the suggestion of my wife (who has no experience with acupuncture), I decided to try acupuncture. For over a year, I had been suffering with severe diarrhea, nausea, lack of appetite, weight loss, and a complete lack of energy. I've been seen by several G.I. specialists, had a myriad of tests, and was given all sorts of medications to help the symptoms. But, no diagnosis, my insurance paying out more than $200,000 in hospital stays, referals to U.C. Davis and UCSF. So, although I was a bit reluctant and a bit skeptical, I decided to make an appointment with Steve. I am still in shock how quickly Steve was able to "fix" me. After the first visit, I felt better. But the symptoms came back after the third day. But after the second treatment a week later, I felt great! I still go to Steve (it has been about 4 weeks now), because I just want to make sure I'm completely cured. Now my wife has an appointment to take care of her headaches.
I also had some stiffness and soreness in my shoulder, and thought I might as well see if Steve could do something for that. It too improved after the first visit, and since the second visit, it has felt great. I am now an absolute believer in acupuncture, and especially a believer in Steve.
–Bob W.
Acupuncture therapy with Dr Steve Phillips for couple of months has been the perfect treatment to my pain on my shoulder and ankle & my recovery has exceed my own expectations. My shoulder could have had surgery as an option but Dr Phillips and his treatments took care of it and made a huge difference. I feel great. Thank you Steve, job well done!
Frank de Alba
I have been under a doctor's care since 1994 because of industrial injuries that developed during my employment as a computer programmer. I had a 3-level cervical fusion in 1996, rotator cuff impingement surgery in 1999 and 2001, and then surgery for radial nerve entrapment in my right arm in 2003. Since 2004 doctors have been trying to find the cause of continuing aching low back pain and deep pain in my right thigh. I have taken several different medications for inflammation and pain over the past 9 years. Three months ago I began once-a-week physical therapy for core strengthening. I have had physical therapy 4 or 5 times in the past 16 years which has gradually reduced muscles to some extent and improved my ability for about a year.
I started acupuncture with Steve Phillips June 15th. After the first visit I could immediately stand up straight. My friends commented on it. With every visit my pain was reduced a little more, the muscle spasms were less, and my flexibility was greater. After 16 visits my overall pain has dropped from 7/10 to 3/10. The pain in my right buttocks is gone. The pain in my right leg has gone from 8/10 to 3/10. My pain in my neck and shoulders is usually 2/10, my lower back pain above my waist is 0, and below my waist is 3-4/10. Standing, I can touch the floor with my finger tips–before I could only get close–11 inches. The quality of my life, my mental attitude, and my ability to function is immeasurably better!!!
In January 2006 I underwent a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass at Kaiser Hospital in South San Francisco. The pre screening, counseling and ultimately the surgery went according to plan and was very successful. It probably saved my life due to the morbidities I was dealing with. And "yes", I would recommend this procedure to others if they had the right reasons. And "yes", I would recommend the Kaiser team there to friends and family.
Unfortunately when I awoke from surgery I felt a very uncomfortable pain in my left shoulder. It has taken me all this time to finally get some type of real relief. Medical doctors have prescribed Salsalate, Lyrica, Vicodin, Tramadol, Celexa and other OTC INSIDS. All of these would provide a temporary solution but the pain always seemed to return. One MD advised me I had minor RA in my shoulders confirmed the diagnosis with a scan and surgery was advised. I was at wits end! I did not want additional surgeries.
Reading on the web, I discovered other Post Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients were experiencing similar shoulder and neck pain. I am not sure there is a solid connection between the two but to me it is just too coincidental. I was tired of sleeping in the chair at night since every time I would lie down in bed the chronic pain would return. My life was hell.
Browsing on the web for alternative solutions I located Steve Phillips and emailed him for his advice. My first acupuncture treatment provided immediate relief that evening. Followed by sessions every 2 to 3 weeks my pain level has dropped considerably. As of this testimonial I am now on 4 week cycles. And I am not taking any of the drugs I was previously taking for pain control. I have continued the use of Trazadone to help me sleep since my sleep patterns were all out of sync.
I plan to continue to receive my acupuncture treatments and manage my chronic pain, and not let the pain killers manage me. Acupuncture treatments or me are working and I am not reluctant to refer anyone to Steve or his peers around the country.
This last weekend I actually did yard work, no pain and I was able to get a good night's rest.
Thanks Steve…
Bruce Borton
Citrus Heights, CA
I had severe arm and shoulder pain. I am rarely slowed or stopped by pain, I usually can work through it. Working through this pain was not going to happen. I could not get away from it. It was interfering with my ability to do my job. I am the Financial Director of small social services nonprofit and my job puts me in front of a computer all day. The pain was so bad I could hardly move my arm and I was having problems lifting my arm to type. All this happened in the middle of our annual audit. I started looking for alternative treatments because I just could not work and take pain medicine and I needed to work and provide the information required by the auditor. I fully committed to treatment with Steve and within four visits my pain slowing decreased until now I rarely have any pain in my arm or my shoulder. Steve recommended that we do several more visits to make sure that everything is completely gone. Thank you Steve, great job!
Kathy
Steve,
I wish to thank you for the acupuncture treatment that I have received at your clinic. It has been a very good experience. I tried everything to help get rid of my shoulder pain. I was even scheduled for surgery, and on the table, but the proceedure was not done as they could not get the tubes down my throat. Next we tried physical therapy. All that did was create more pain. Now, after 8 treatments, the pain is not as intense, and as often. I have more range of motion and can do more activities. I was sceptical about acupuncture at first, but I am very pleased with the results. I recommend that everyone in my situation try your clinic as they might be surprised with the results.
Russ
Steve Phillips has performed acupuncture for me for many years treating the osteoarthritis in both shoulders which has eroded the cartilage in the shoulder joints.
This condition creates pain from the right elbow to the left causing pain across my shoulders, into my neck, and creates great difficulty in performing many tasks of daily living.
The acupuncture treatments aid greatly in the control of pain, allowing me to live a fuller life despite the problems caused by the osteoarthritis.
Steve also treats other bodily conditions arising from use and abuse related to activity stemming from my profession as a registered nurse and activity of daily living.
I highly recommend Steve to perform acupuncture for the myriad of bodily problems occurring from daily life, to enjoy relief of pain, release of tension, reduction of stress level, and overall bodily rejuvenation.
Lois Mikelson, R.N., M.F.C.C., Ph. D, and Reiki Master
I consider Steve Phillips as the MIRACLE MAN of my right arm. After two Kaiser Physicians recommended surgery on my right shoulder rotator cuff, I refused and opted for painful physical therapy which did nothing but created more pain, I sought help from Acupuncture. As a result, after just 7 treatments from Steve, I regain full circular use of my right arm. I was able to again, extend my arm out front, side and backward from my body, sleep on my right side, reach above my shoulders, and carry my cane and return to work. When the pain flares up, normally every three years, I return for another set of treatments. It is great, no pain pills, just tiny hair like needles that are almost painless.
Thanks Steve for your personal and professional touch.
Sylvia S., Ph.D.
I am a 53 year old woman who trains horses for a living and has a martial arts filled past. In other words, I am a gold mine of old and current injuries, particularly my ankle, shoulders and lower back.
Steve Phillips with his athletic savvy and acupuncture talents has kept me in the best possible condition I need to not only work, but to enjoy life to its fullest. My immune system is better than it's been in years as well as my general health and energy level. His practice combines a kind concern with a no nonsense view towards health care that is quite refreshing. I certainly recommend it strongly.
Sincerely,
Teresa T.
I would like to take this opportunity to write a brief testimonial for Steve Phillips, L.Ac.
I have worked in the medical field now for 15 years and hold licenses in two healthcare modalities. I've had the opportunity to work with many medical doctors and other healthcare professionals and this experience has enriched my knowledge about the human body and many medical treatments and procedures.
Having direct patient contact, my job is quite physical and we are at high risk for musculo-skeletal injuries. I have suffered multiple work related injuries from my job, which had resulted in sciatica from a disc herniation, chronic back pain and chronic shoulder pain.
Surgery was the last resort, so I used both chiropractic and massage therapy. While these were beneficial and offered temporary relief, my condition worsened. Then I heard about acupuncture from a co-worker who had success with it. I was quite skeptical about acupuncture, but I figured that… with my declining condition, what did I have to lose? I would have most likely been unable to continue working the way things were going.
I found Steve in the yellow pages (lucky me) and began treatments in 2003. I honestly laughed after my first treatment because I noticed release in the back muscles which had been in chronic spasm for several years. I continued a steady treatment regimen of chiropractic, massage therapy, and acupuncture. All three are complimentary, but acupuncture was the keystone to my recovery. Steve also taught me special exercises which I will use for the rest of my life which helped bring me out of that trough of pain and suffering.
I've seen two sides of treating ailments: western medicine and chinese medicine. With what I know now, I'd opt for acupuncture first and foremost for any aches, pains, and/or injuries before surgery and pills. I still use and highly recommend Steve for his services… try it, you can't go wrong!
Thank you,
James B. age 47
Steve,
I really hate needles! That tells you how difficult it was for me to go to an Acupuncturist.
My husband had gone to Steve Phillips with great success, so I gave him a try. I had tennis elbow and was in a lot of pain. After five visits, the pain was gone and it never came back. My next visit, some years later, was for shoulder pain on one side and arm pain on the other side. I waited three months to call Steve. By that time, the pain was severe. Again, five visits and it was gone.
I am now seeing him for lower back pain. I have no doubt that it will gone soon.
I have recommended Steve to several friends. They have also been relieved of their pain.
I still hate needles, but continue to go to Steve for permanent relief of my aches.
—Evelyn J.
I am writing this sincere and thankful endorsement of acupuncture treatment in general and Steve Phillips in particular. I began my treatment nearly a year ago for unremitting pain in my right forearm and elbow area that had originated about four months earlier as a result of a lifting injury. Visits with my primary care doctor and medications had not resulted in any significant improvement in my pain level or return of function. Steve was able to provide pain relief after just one visit and within about 3 to 4 treatments the pain was entirely gone. As my elbow treatment was occurring, I had a recurrence of some back pain that was related to a disc compression and sciatica nerve related pain. Steve was able to begin treating this back pain as he was completing the treatment for the elbow. Because these two treatments were so successful and helpful to me, I asked Steve to work on other pain issues in my shoulders with excellent results. The most recent treatments Steve has provided are focused on Carpal Tunnel issues that have developed over the last year. Acupuncture treatment has succeeded in addressing this condition as well. In addition to the acupuncture, Steve offered suggestions such as specific stretching exercises which were helpful in preventing a return of the pain issues in my shoulders, elbow, arms, and wrists.
Steve is an exceptionally knowledgeable practitioner of Acupuncture who has a very professional manner that inspires trust and confidence. His training, his confidence in the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment, and his genuine interest in the overall well being of his clients are all key aspects of his successful treatments. He is an excellent listener who gives his full attention to each person who consults him for assistance. He has the ability to answer questions in a comprehensive and understandable manner that lets his clients know that he has clearly understood their concerns and that encourages the type of additional discussion that enhances treatment decisions and effectiveness.
Finally, Steve offered numerous recommendations that have assisted me in altering my lifestyle in ways that have enabled me to begin losing weight and to eat in a manner that is much healthier. One extremely positive outcome of following Steve's advice and guidance in lifestyle changes has been significantly improved management of my diabetes reflected in blood glucose levels that are more frequently in the normal range. In addition, I think the acupuncture treatment has improved my immune system and resistance to illness such as colds and flu caused by viruses.
Steve has been a pleasure to work with in so many ways. He is personable, professional, flexible, friendly, knowledgeable, and wonderfully competent in performing acupuncture treatments for a wide variety of issues. It has been a pleasure to work with such a caring and competent acupuncture provider and I whole-heartedly endorse and recommend him as an exemplary person and acupuncture practitioner.
Stephen Grouell, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist
Testimonial for Steve Phillips
I had been having left shoulder pain for a very long time and right knee pain for at least 2 months, and had decided I would have to live with it. I thought that it was just part of getting older, along with the loss of energy and "hot flashes". When I started having excruciating right wrist pain, I decided that it was time to do something. That's when I came to Steve Phillips for acupuncture. That was the most wonderful choice I could have made. Within weeks after having energy balancing treatments as well as treatments for all my problem areas, most pain was gone, except for that of my very painful wrist, and even that is greatly improved. My energy level has greatly improved, and the "hot flashes" are gone. I am truly grateful to Steve for everything he has done for me.
Theresa Miyashiro, R.N.
I first saw Steve Phillips for acupuncture treatments in 2004. I was experiencing headaches and nausea from subdural hematomas. The sessions helped to lessen these symptoms. Over the past few years I have undergone acupuncture treatments for a variety of conditions such as anxiety, pain in my knees, my shoulder and a sinus condition. All of these sessions have given positive results. I presently continue with the acupuncture sessions to maintain good health and a sense of well-being.
K.A., Female age 55-60
After a fall, I had experienced fairly constant neck, shoulder and back pain even after physical therapy. The pain specialist recommended acupuncture. I did not expect much relief and was not looking forward to the needles. However, to my surprise, the needles do not hurt and after a few sessions, I realized that the pain has been reduced dramatically in frequency and intensity. I recommend you keep an open mind and give it a try.
Donna G. from Sacramento, CA
Steve Phillips has been treating me for around two years assisting me to cope with several chronic medical issues of mine, which include chronic low back pain, a rotator cuff problem in my shoulder, and anxiety. I can say without any doubt that Steve is very professional and has a deep concern for his patients. Prior to each session, Steve is sure to evaluate me and makes sure to address any issues that are currently hindering me. He is then able to adjust my treatment so that I'm able to gain the maximum benefit from the session. Steve has always clearly explained his recommended treatment with me and made sure that I was comfortable with his suggestion before proceeding.
Through the past two years with regular acupuncture treatments I have found that most of my medical issues are much easier to manage. The back and shoulder pain is much improved. In addition, each session has allowed me the time to grow through the solitude and quiet music which allows me to easily fall into a meditative state and focus on my body and spirit. This greatly helps my anxiety.
I would highly recommend to someone who is having difficulty maintaining any medical issue to sincerely consider Steve Phillips Acupuncture Clinic. It truly is an incredible alternative method of treatment to utilize in conjunction with your current medical treatments.
—Todd M.
I have been receiving acupuncture from Steve Phillips since 2002 for pain control from having rotator cuff surgery. Before receiving acupuncture from Steve Phillips, it was difficult to do any activity without a high amount of pain. I could not care for my goats, nor could I groom, walk, or train my horses because of the tenderness. In addition, it was also impossible to go to a fitness club to exercise due to the throbbing. Since seeing Steve Phillips, I can care for my goats, work with my horses, and work out at a fitness club regularly. Not only does Steve Phillips aid in pain control, he has developed a technique to reduce scar tissue, so the surgery scars are almost unnoticeable. Steve Phillips has also treated my family members for other ailments such as sciatica, migraine headaches, and scoliosis pain. Before poisoning the body with drugs, try acupuncture first. I do.
—Candy Y.
I began acupuncture treatment after a minor vehicle crash which caused me neck, shoulder and lower back pain. Physical therapy did not work and seemed to cause me more pain. After a couple of sessions at The Acupuncture Clinic, I began to feel relief. I was sleeping through the night, taking less medication and rating my pain lower and less frequently. I am almost done with my acupuncture sessions and feel wonderful. Steve Phillips from the clinic provides a gentle, relaxing but effective treatment. I have never had acupuncture treatments before but can honestly say that it has helped me with my pain so that I can sleep comfortably and lead a normal life.
Laura G., Elk Grove
