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Alex B Callister, DC
Category: Health and Medical Chiropractors Chiropractors [Edit]
A Sound Body Chiropractic & Wellness CenterThe Mills Building, 220 Montgomery St, Ste 1084
San Francisco, CA 94104
Neighborhood: Financial District
(415) 395-9955
- Hours:
Mon, Wed 8 am - 6 pm
Tue, Thu 8 am - 2 pm
Fri 8 am - 5:30 pm
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
37 reviews for Alex B Callister, DC
37 reviews in English
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Review from achraf s.
San Francisco, CA
4/17/2012
This review is long overdue but I still have to give credit where credit is due. As you can tell from most reviews here, Alex is really a great physician with superb interpersonal skills and a great eye and ear for detail. He has the skill set to make you feel comfortable, LISTEN to your complaints and work towards an effective treatment. He is the type of physician who will respect you and not request you to come back just to waste your time or bill as many sessions as possible, this guy is really interested in fixing your issue and making you better.
That being said, I came to Dr. Callister with some injuries that I obtained while playing soccer way to enthusiastically and then ending up with some gruesome pain in my leg and lower back that would just not disappear by itself. Alex took note of all the complaints, did his research, looked up all the possible causes and solutions, referred me to get an MRI scan and slowly but surely we worked towards solving the problem. It took me a few months of therapy but I am now pain free and so much more knowledgeable of my own body.
Alex is a vivid example of what a physician should be: caring, great listener and a problem solver.
Oh and independently of my leg problem, he always also took 5 minutes out to adjust my spine..always a great relief!
Don't waste your time finding the right chiropractor- save yourself the headache and the money- go to Alex..this guy is worth every single penny and you wont regret it! -
Review from Michael L.
Los Angeles, CA
2/23/2012
WOW.
Yesterday I called Alex out f the blue after almost 2 years (I moved to Los Angeles from SF). In the move I apparently damaged my spine, and subsequently herniated two disks. That hurt has led to over a year of almost constant pain, up and down from bed rest to being ok, back to bed rest. It has been a confusing, frustrating, painful, and depressing year dealing with Chiropractors who could not help, three different doctors at Kaiser who were so unbelievably ineffective I am shocked, hanging upside down on an inversion machine until my head feels like popping, getting swelling reduction shots in my spine, and having to take pain medication just to sleep. I have not danced in 6 months, and pretty much all of life is at a standstill.
For some reason it did not think to call him, I guess because I live in another city and why would I expect someone who can't even treat me to do anything? Well, I was sure foolish. I called Alex, left a message, and he called me back 2 minutes later. He listened to everything that has happened over the course of the last year, everything I have been told, and all of the treatments I have tried. We spoke for over an hour, as he talked me through the whole issue. He gave me the straight story on "Spinal Decompression" and how the Chiropractic community sees it, and even suggested I find a Chiro down here in LA that can implement the methodology that he would treat me with if I was up in SF. Our hope is that I can avoid spinal surgery.
All this because he cares about me. He is not getting anything from taking the time with me, he just wants to make sure I am back to normal. The guy cares, is committed to his patients, and gives you the straight story with no BS or fluff.
Let me give you a bit of history of being Alex's patient and why I trust him so much. A few years back when we started working together, I fell off a motorcycle at 60 mph and fractured two ribs and literally shattered my collarbone. After seeing the surgeon and getting his opinion on the next steps (putting in a plate to hold the collarbone together while it healed), I called Alex to ask him. Surgeons want to do surgery they say, so I wanted to find out what Alex thought. Almost verbatim he said what the surgeon told me. He knew everything the surgeon knew, and put it into words that I could understand. I was impressed with his depth of knowledge, and his matter of fact explanation of what I needed and what I could expect.
Over the course of the next 6 months as I healed, the pain was ever present but low, and I got used to it, not realizing how much it was affecting me. I got Physical Therapy but I was still living half a life. Once the bones fully mended at month 8 or 9, I went to see Alex, and in one visit my pain was reduced by about 85%. I couldn't believe it, it was like the sun had come out for the first time in months. Within about 4 weeks he had me back to a range of motion in my arm that I had not been able to obtain before, and he had me working with his in-house massage therapist who helped to break up all the scar tissue and allow the muscles to move properly. Now I have no limitations from that accident at all, and it was Alex that ushered me through.
Basically, his treatment was to the point, effective, and solved all the issues I was dealing with. I came away with a full understanding of the issues I was facing, and the knowledge to be empowered to deal with them in the future.
I have been Alex's patient for about 5 years, and I have to say he is the best Chiropractor I have had. I have worked with a bunch of different ones over the years, as I have lived in many different cities for work. I have dealt with really bad to really great, but none of them are as great as Alex.
I get apprehensive when I don't have a full understanding of what is wrong, and what the treatment is doing to solve it exactly. I like to understand the reasoning, biology, and science behind the physical issue and the treatment, and Alex is the best guy I know for explaining to me exactly what is happening in details I can understand. I feel if I know the mechanics of what it is, I can feel all the more comfortable with where I am and what we are doing to get me to where I want to be.
Thank you Alex, I look forward to getting through this Disk Herniation and seeing you next time I'm in San Francisco. -
Review from Rachael S.
San Francisco, CA
3/28/2012
Dr. Callister is a great chiropractor. I was in a lot of pain and he was able to take me for an appt day-of my call into the office. (He told me later that he always holds a few "urgent" time slots to accomodate people - very nice). He spent a lot of time getting to know me and figuring out exactly what was causing me pain. After a detailed analysis, he adjusted me and it was pure magic. He definitely knows what he's doing and spends the time getting to know you and your body before jumping into adjustments.
I've seen a lot of chiros in SF, but I'm sticking with Dr Callister from here on out! -
Review from Shawna M.
Belvedere Tiburon, CA
1/24/2011
I will never go to any other chiro/conditioning coach again.
This man stands in a league of his own. Everyone and their mother should be visiting him... right now. -
Review from Christina T.
Oakland, CA
2/17/2011
I had never been to a chiropractor and honestly felt the whole concept was a little hokey. But, I had some shoulder/neck pain that wouldn't go away. I went to Dr. Callister on the recommendation of several co-workers who swore by him, and because I didn't want to take any medication to relieve my pain.
The receptionist was extremely friendly, as was Dr. Callister upon meeting him. He was thorough in his explanations, asking me many questions and was responsive to my questions and provided thorough answers.
After a general assessment with careful explanations, he decided I at most needed one additional appointment after he sent me home with some exercises to perform to relieve my pain. I came back over a long weekend mostly relieved from my suffering. He told me if I kept up with his adjustments I would be fine in no time flat; and I could subsequently perform the same exercises in the future to relieve pain. And he was totally correct. After one appointment and one follow-up I was totally back to normal in just a week's time! I haven't needed to see him since but will absolutely make follow up appointments with him if need be.
On top of all their friendliness, they also worked with my insurance. -
Review from Marla L.
San Francisco, CA
9/21/2008
This man is my god. I'm pretty much convinced he could cure cancer and all the rest of the world's atrocities if he put his mind to it. For what he doesn't already know, he has the passion, will, and diligence to learn about. Honestly. Just trust me.
Before making Dr. Callister my official chiropractor, I saw 4 others in SF. You see, I am picky. I want my chiropractor to do more than "crack my back and neck"; I want him/her to help me fix things for the long term. Dr. Callister does this. He will teach you stretches, give you advice, and supply you with plenty of color commentary on just about anything. The man is as intelligent as it gets. Proof you ask? How's this . . . ?
Just to name a few, Dr. Callister has helped me get over 1) resulting foot injuries from a tumor filled cuboid, which I had surgery and bone graft on 2) the "tennis elbow" I got from yoga, 3) the knee injury I had from soccer, 4) the abused IT Band I get from running, 5) and the ENORMOUS stiff neck and body ache I had after sleeping several day/weeks on the floor and in chairs while my dad unfortunately slipped away and passed away,
These are just a few of the miracle wonders the man has performed on me. As for my husband, who tends to think Chiropractors are frauds and "not real doctors," the man has cured 1) the "turf toe" my husband got from playing tag football in soft sand, and 2) the chronic back ache my husband got when he decided golf was his new passion
The best part? He won't say you need to come back every week for 5 weeks unless he really means it.
If you need more convincing, please PM me. I can't think of a single reason why you shouldn't go to Dr. Callister. . -
Review from Michael S.
San Francisco, CA
11/4/2008
Marla L - http://www.yelp.com/us... told me that she'd pay my copay to try Alex. I thought with an endorsement like that I would be stupid not to at least try this guy out. I've become more open to "alternative" therapies as I search for a solution to a hip tightness issue I've had off and on for 7 years.
I went in for my initial meeting. I was 10 minutes early, started filling out the forms and insurance information. While writing down all my info I could hear a loud booming voice talking to a patient in a closed office very clearly. I ignored it cause I felt this was an invasion of privacy to listen. I kept filling out my info for payment and handed it to the women behind the desk. With another patient in the waiting area she calls my insurance company and uses my full name and insurance number. Not cool. Two strikes.
20 minutes late Alex emerges from the office, he was the loud booming voice behind the door. He's a tall fellow, alpha male, probably 6'2, with a large dark brownish beard, and a tablet computer to take notes.
We go through the case history together, he talks a lot, in tons of detail about muscles I never studied in school. This feels like the equivalent of a car mechanic giving you a grossly detailed description of a problem just to make you go in subservient human mode where you'll do whatever he says. He talked about 30 minutes of the 45 minute meeting. We were approaching the end of the session and he hadn't really given me any new ideas, and he says that he'll need to have time to digest the information and I'll have to come back for his treatment plan.
I felt like this was lame but I did come back since this was Marla's recommendation.
The next appointment I received a little massage and a small spinal adjustment. He talked a good amount of session this time as well.
Alex does seem like a nice guy and I'm sure he's helping lots of folks. I thought the privacy stuff was lame and explaining problems with technical overkill hindered the experience more than helping it. -
Review from Holly B.
San Francisco, CA
8/21/2007
Alex Callister is a stellar chiropractor. He is personable, highly professional, has tremendous integrity, and has a strong but gentle touch.
Dr. Callister genuinely cares about the health and well-being of his patients. He truly enjoys what he does, and it is evident in the care he provides. I highly recommend Dr. Callister. -
Review from Stacy T.
Updated - 10/29/2009
Love Love Love the way this man makes my neck and back feel so much better after long hours hunched over a keyboard. I initially went to Dr. Callister over a year and a half ago for a bulging disk and then stupidly stopped going after he fixed my pain issue. Dumb move on my part. Like caffeine I am addicted!
He's a wonderful listener, vastly informative, and gives easy to follow advice. A winner in my book!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/7/2008
I heart this guy! He has made my back so much happier! I never really believed in all this voo doo… Read more »
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Review from Mandy E.
Mountain View, CA
1/17/2008
I started seeing him at Chiro-Medical group and just abhorred the idea of having to establish a relationship with another chiropractor. I didn't even think I believed in chiropractic in the first place and I'm generally distrustful of doctors so when I found out that Dr. Callister got his own clinic and wasn't MIA, I was so pleased.
He's gotten even better now that he's on his own because he can spend more time with his patients. He explains what he's doing, what I should be doing (without making me feel bad about being lazy), and just seems excited about helping heal your back (or whatever biomechanical issue you're having).
For more details about how he establishes relationships with his patients, read my Chiro-Med review. -
Review from Alisha B.
San Francisco, CA
1/19/2012
Love Dr. Callister. He has helped both my husband and I.
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Review from Betsy G.
Washington, DC
12/12/2007
He's fantastic. Go see him!
Dr. Callister is by far the best chiropractor I've ever seen for treatment. He's great at correctly identifying what's going wrong with your body and making the appropriate adjustments. Dr. Callister is also proactive. He suggested a treatment plan of exercises that really did help when I actually did them. And he didn't take it personally when I slacked and didn't do said exercises. He's professional, he's dedicated, and he really works it all out when your body's gone awry. I can't tell you how many times I went to see him in pain and left with none. Beyond the great chiropractic care, he's also just a really nice guy who's very easy to talk to. I can't recommend him enough! -
Review from Bibi R. W.
San Francisco, CA
9/7/2007
Alex B Callister, DC is a gifted chiropractor; the best. I recommend him most highly. He took me from an acute condition to pain-free mobility with gentle but effective adjustments and sound advice. I always felt safe in his hands.
Dr Callister's treatment plan was well thought out and specific. Every visit built on the one before, every treatment resulted in improvement. It was like a prophecy (the good kind!) and invaluable because my bouts of pain were becoming chronic. He understood that I wanted to be active again and encouraged me, but also recommended strengthening strategies to prevent re-injury and to keep me at the top of my game in work and daily life.
Dr Callister is eminently qualified and generously shares his knowledge with warmth and clarity. He is athlete, scholar, and clinician but there is no pretension, no arrogance -- just genuine concern and professional competence of high degree. He will listen to you and welcome your collaboration in your own healing, health and well-being. Plus, he's a nice guy with a great sense of humor. I am not kidding.
Dr Callister's exceptional skills are informed by that which is innate: the twin gifts of compassion and integrity. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have benefited from his care, now and in the future. -
Review from Pat S.
San Francisco, CA
8/1/2011
I am meeting with Dr. Callister to avoid surgery on a herniated disc and seek out alternative methods. DR. Callister is extremely knowldgeable about the body and does a very nice job sharing some of that knowledge which has allowed me to understand and buy in to some healing techniques moving forward. I would highly recommend Dr. Callister to indviduals looking to heal or improve their bodies.
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Review from Teresa T.
San Francisco, CA
9/16/2008
Dr. Callister solved my neck problem in the most pleasant and professional way imaginable. Not only was he focused on "fixing" my problem right there and then, but also took the time to properly diagnose and educate me about my options and stretches that would help. I found it refreshing that Dr. Callister did not lay out a 6-month treatment plan but rather was focused on short term effective treatment.
I found Dr. Callister to be a very friendly, polite and educated professional and highly recommend him. -
Review from Amy J.
Seattle, WA
9/2/2009
I'm ashamed it's taken me this long to sing the praises of this man, but better late than not at all.
I found him through Yelp and he was close to the office, that was good enough for me. However, I did not expect to have all of my expectations so overwhelmingly exceeded. He is amazing and helped me with a plethora of issues (Headache, neck/back, foot pain, etc). He is extremely informative and will give you additional stretches and/or exercises to help you help yourself. He listens to all you have to say and spends a lot of time with each patient.
So not only is he excellent at what he does and very informative, but you can just tell he absolutely loves what he is doing, which makes it a joy to come in.
I had taken some time off from visits due to the fact I changed jobs and was farther away, but after my visit today I really don't care how far I have to travel... he is worth it. I walked out feeling a couple of inches taller, less stressed and just better all over. I really can't say enough good things about him. GO!!! -
Review from Mike O.
San Francisco, CA
11/18/2008 1 Check-in Here
Dr Callister is hands down the best chiropractic doctor I have ever been to. I was rear ended at a dead stop on 11/6 at over 35 mph. Sore, frustrated and skeptical I decided to try Dr Callister and glad I did.
Not only is he the most thorough doctor I have ever seen, he has a gift and intuition that you either have or don't. Plain and simple. -
Review from Christopher B.
Piedmont, CA
3/19/2010
This man is one of the most amazing doctors I have seen! He is professional, kind, knowledgeable, caring... I could go on all day, singing his praises! Wait, is that him walking on water?!?!?! Why yes, it is....
I went to see him for a running injury (knee) and in just one visit, I had my runners life back!
If you have any aches or pains, do yourself a favor and go see him! -
Review from SF K.
San Francisco, CA
4/21/2011
I've decided I really like this guy. I've seen a variety of chiropractors over the years. Usually I'm in and out of the office within 15 minutes after a few "adjustments." Dr Callister doesn't work like that at all. It's more like physical therapy, with adjustments done when necessary. Dr Callister asks a lot of questions and really listens. It took him 2 or 3 appointments to pinpoint the subtle cause of my pain, and I really appreciate his thoroughness. He's given me a set of exercises that seem to be helping quite a bit. Half my office goes to him, and now I see why. Highly recommended.
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Review from Grant S.
San Francisco, CA
7/28/2010
Dr. Callister is awesome. Calling him a Chiropractor is technically correct, but really sells him short. Yes, he can crack your and set up your alignment, but he knows more about the body, and reads more about exercises than anyone I have met. He will give you drills, stretches, exercises, everything he knows to get you out doing what you love to do.
I like to run, a lot and he's the first person that I've seen that doesn't want to see me. If he can't "fix" you in 5 visits, he tells you that and you go on your way looking for another solution. Luckily for me, he had no problem fixing me. -
Review from JM R.
Chicago, IL
2/21/2010
Dr. Callister is one of those people that truly cares about your health and not just your money. I've been to other chiropractors who try to sell you the "come 500 million times packages", but I didn't get any of this from Dr. Callister. He never pressured me to come more than I wanted to.
I've had terrible back problems forever, and Dr. Callister made my back feel like brand new. He also showed me exercises to strengthen my back and made sure I knew exactly how to do them properly.
I've had a clicking jaw for years. I went in for my back problems, but Dr. Callister even helped me fix my jaw!
It's refreshing to go to someone who you can tell is in this business to help people. The receptionist is really friendly too. Sadly, I've moved to another city and can no longer go here, but I must recommend seeing Dr. Callister to anyone with any joint or posture problems at all. You won't have to deal with salesmen talk, and you have nothing to lose but your aches and pains!!!!!! -
Review from Berkeley R.
San Francisco, CA
10/5/2011
Dr Callister is extremely competent and professional. I would recommend him to anyone that needs chiropractic services.
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Review from Steve S.
San Francisco, CA
9/15/2010
I'm not a big fan of Chiropractors, but Dr Callister is unique, qualified and gets results. He is one of the few in his profession that doesn't but into "we need to see you for a minimum of 25 visits" before you see results. Dr Callister was able to resolve a lower back issue I had a few years ago and I would recommend him without reservation.
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Review from Blake W.
San Francisco, CA
12/11/2007
Dr. Callister recently left Chiro Medical and now has his own practice on Montgomery street. He is the kind of guy I hope becomes a yelp legend and becomes fabulously wealthy based upon word of mouth on yelp. So to all you out there in need of a chiropractor, go see Dr. Callister. I have written over 150 yelp reviews I believe, and I would say that my recommendation of Dr. Callister is in the top 5 or 10 of all those reviews. PEOPLE, do you hear me? Go look at all my reviews, and see how I wax poetic about booze and food--go ahead, have a look. I am saying that I recommend Dr. Callister more than I recommend almost every place I eat and get drunk at. I am more confident in my recommendation of Dr. Callister than I am in my recommendation of a beer at Magnolia, or a Tamale from the Tamale lady, or of the food at NOPA...Trust me, that is saying something. In fact, if you knew me at all, your whole world view is likely altered right now. Blake is recommending a Chiropractor over booze and food? Go F)%& yourself you are thinking. Please, don't f(*&& yourself...it's true...here's my story....
So, I'm not really a chiropractor type guy. You know what I mean? I don't really know much about what chiropractors do, what the science behind the methods is, etc. I really don't like going to see doctors for the most part, and I try to minimize the type of doctors I see. However, after my recent experience with Dr. Callister, I just might be a chiropractor type guy.
Dr. Callister is simply an intelligent, pro-active and honest Chiropractor. What do I mean? I showed up in his office (on recommendation of my wife, who is absolutely a Chiropractor type girl) with a busted toe. Let's just call it turf toe because that makes me sound like I had the same injury that ended the career of Mr. Prime Time Deion Sanders himself . In actuality, I was playing football in deep sand on the beach with a bunch of my out of shape friends and I completely strained/sprained my big toe and everything surrounding it.
I avoided dealing with the toe for months, hoping it would go away. It never did.
Enter Dr. Callister. Who knew that a Chiropractor can heal a toe? I certainly didn't. But my toe is nearly healed and it has only been 1 months since I first saw him.
What is great about Dr. Callister is that he involves you in the diagnosis and the treatment plan. He explains to you why you hurt and why his treatment is fixing it. On top of that, he is an uber-friendly and funny guy, and great to talk with.
Just see Dr. Callister and tell all your friends. Help make him into a Yelp legend! -
Review from Jessica C.
San Francisco, CA
9/1/2007
I have been seeing Dr. Callister for over a year and a half. I suffer from chronic back pain and sciatic discomfort. He has been the only person involved with my care that has taken a genuine interest & concern with my well being. He has been the lead decision maker in most of my care and I truly respect every path we have explored. He is thorough with his explanations, breaking them down to my level, and has always provided me with options as to how I want to approach things. His knowledge is exceptional and he has a great network of care providers that I now consider my "team." He is a doctor that is more about patient care than time & money, which sets him far above any other doctor I have ever seen.
I would highly recommend Dr. Callister for any medical issues you may suffer from. -
Review from Lori L.
San Francisco, CA
9/20/2010
As a distance runner, I rely on my body to work. Sometimes I get injured. I've seen physical therapists, chiropractors, the works - anything to feel better when I've had a sports injury. Always, these other professionals would say "stop running, take a break" ... basically "you're hosed lady".
But - Dr. Callister gets athletes! He's a chiropractor with no attitude, and focused on my injury and how to repair me / it.
Dr. Callister gave me stretches, exercises, and treatment for my injury! He is a class act, and I highly recommend him whether you're an athlete, or not. -
Review from Julie C.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2008
Dr. Callister is the best chiro I have EVER been to. He totally gets it, looks at my problems holistically and keeps in mind what I am doing and how it affects me when he treats me. This is no crack you back and send you packing place, he really knows his stuff. And, he isn't one of those chiros that tries to make you come more than you should - actually, if anything I ask him if I can come more than I need to and he keeps me in check. Seriously, great guy, awesome services, easy location - give it a try!
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Review from Jessica G.
Millbrae, CA
4/23/2008
Depsite having a Master Degree in Somatic Psychology, I've always had doubts about Chiropractic. I've heard so many people talk about how, once you go, you can't stop going. I don't like the thought of anything that sounds addictive.
About two years ago I started having lower back pain when I woke up in the mornings. A few months ago it progressed into my waking hours and got so bad that I finally had enough. Compound this with the increased tension I was developing in my neck, and I broke down and decided to see a chiropractor. How does one choose a chiropractor? I, of course, looked to Yelp!. The reviews I read for Dr. Callister were excellent, and his office is two blocks from mine, so I decided to give him a try.
The reviews here are spot-on. First off, I have to give props to Aileen, the receptionist. She is a Rock Star. She's kind, courteous, and on top of it. She's also pregnant, so will be going on Maternity leave in August. :-( You'll be missed, Aileen!
Dr. Callister is a very likeable guy, he takes his time and explains EVERYTHING in great detail. Being a details person and liking to be informed, I absolutely love this. He won my trust immediately by doing a very thorough evaluation and in-depth explanation of my diagnosis and his treatment plan. Yes, the treatment plan involved many visits to begin with, but the idea is to get the body loosened up and developing habits that will stay with you once treatment is tapered off.
It's working! After the first couple sessions I no longer feel pain during my waking hours! He's teaching me various stretches and postural positioning that has truly helped. A few more sessions and even my night time pain has severely decreased. I am confident that, through utilization of the techniques he's taught me and my new understanding of how my body functions to create the pain I've had, I will be able to correct my postural problems and go back to a pain free life in short time.
Thanks Dr. Callister! -
Review from Xicana X.
San Francisco, CA
8/29/2007
I agree with the other reviewer of Dr. Callister. He is a nice, professional person that makes you feel at ease and he listens to what you have to say. He seems to have a knack for finding problems you weren't aware you had, but he'll notice if something feels or looks off like like a posture issue or some muscle gone haywire. He is also gentle, but effective. He's the only chiro that I really trust with my neck because I don't feel like my head might pop off when he works on it. He's also good with the entire back as well, I seem to have mainly lower back and neck problems (RSI injuries) that other chiros don't seem to know what to do with.
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Review from Scott S.
San Francisco, CA
3/24/2010
I have known Dr. Callister for several years in a professional capacity. I can tell you that he is one of the most well educated professional doctors I know. Take it from another chiropractor call Dr. C you will not be disappointed!
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Review from gregg s.
San Francisco, CA
12/6/2007
I've been a patient of Dr. Callister's for many years. He has helped me through some intense physical challenges and shown more patience than I could ask for with my chronic issues. He's a great guy with great knowledge and interest in all aspects of health. I'm not at all surprised to see nothing but five star reviews for Dr. Callister.
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Review from Sherrie D.
Alameda, CA
11/25/2008
Dr. Callister is awesome! I'm recalibrating my health benefits so that my chiro coverage is better so what does that tell you.
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Review from Marilyn L.
Hayward, CA
6/30/2011
Dr. Callister has changed my opinion about chiropracter's forever. He is the ABSOLUTE BEST!!!! I was grabbing at last straws after my back went out 3 years ago. I've never experienced so much pain for so long. 3 cortisone shots had no effect whatsoever and my neurosurgeon (top rated in California) said my ONLY option was back surgery (I have 4 dessicated disks and spinal stenosis in lower back) and it would be a waste of my time and money to try alternatives. Thankfully I decided to do some research of my own and tried acupuncture (helped only briefly), Thai massage (somewhat helpful but super painful although the bruising & tears were a good distraction), cold packs 24 hrs a day , physical therapy & massage ( temporary relief) and 2 other chiropractor's (no help at all). I was about to spend $6,500 on one of those back decompression procedures being advertised but something didn't seem right & I backed out.
I'm so thankful a little angel steered me to Dr. Callister (thanks yelpers). I liked him from the very beginning. He was thorough and professional and took his time to come up with a plan for me. He also sets up a time line for expected results - he's not one to keep you coming back forever. He analyzed my x-rays and noticed something my neurosurgeon failed to see, that the prognosed "stenosis" that was causing the sciatica might be a disk out of place. He said we could give it a try but made no promises and assured me he would do his best but would inform me if he felt he couldn't improve my condition.
Now for the best part. I was 60% better after the first treatment (I think he was even suprised). By the 3rd visit I had no back pain to speak of and went off all pain medication. It has been 3 years now and I have no back problems. I still see him every couple of months for a tune-up and for a hip that's giving me a little grief and just because he is so special to me. So thanks doc, if it weren't for you I'd have rods in by back.
Also his receptionist Ilene is a jewel!!! -
Review from Kevin L.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2010
Dr. Callister made it possible for me to finish my first marathon. I'm a 6'2, 215 pound guy who found a way to run 26.2 miles without collapsing. I owe it all to Dr. Callister and his ability to work with me and my body to make it happen. He'll always get my endorsement.
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Review from pilar j.
San Francisco, CA
1/3/2008
i LOVE dr. callister, he's one of my favorite doctors ever! i wish he could be my general M.D. i followed him from his old clinic, chiro medical group, because i couldn't bear to see another chiropractor. he's really gentle, attentive, positive & thorough, and you can tell (like some of the other reviews have said) that he genuinely loves what he does. his treatments have helped me a lot with shoulder / RSI issues from working at a computer, and helped relieve pain & improve my mobility in my back, neck & shoulders. another bonus is that you don't wait long in his office to see him, and he usually can see you within a few days when you call to make an appt. seeing him always boosts my spirits, in addition to helping my back.
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Review from matthew r.
Oakland, CA
6/24/2010
In my opinion, the best Chiropractor I've ever been to. I've been to a handful and Dr, Callister is by far the best. Never pushing to have you come once all the time, rather he let's you decide how often you choose to come.He's very smart, and conveys very helpful information for you to use on your own time as far as stretches that will help keep you healthy for the future. He's very personable and takes time with me on every visit. I never feel rushed out of there and I always leave feeling much improved. I only wish I could go more often. I would recommend anyone looking for a great chiropractor to give him a try.
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Review from Rainforest C.
San Francisco, CA
4/27/2009
Two stars. The stars are because I think he is a nice person. The lack of stars are b/c he did not help me with my medical condition despite reassurances that he would be able to do so. I think he is enthusiastic about his practice, but when it comes down to it I would not recomend seeing him to anyone for treatment. You'll feel better off going to a masseus or rubbing your own shoulder/back/whatever's bothering you for five minutes yourself rather than his long consultations and crackings, truthfully.
