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Alive Chiropractic
Category: Health and Medical Chiropractors Chiropractors [Edit]
4157 Piedmont Ave(between 41st St & Linda Ave)
Oakland, CA 94611
Neighborhoods: Piedmont Ave, North Oakland
(510) 457-5874
- Hours:
Mon, Wed 12 pm - 6 pm
Tue, Thu, Sat 8 am - 1 pm
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
49 reviews for Alive Chiropractic
49 reviews in English
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Review from Karen C.
Oakland, CA
5/14/2012
I've been seeing Dr. Jen at Alive Chiropractice for a few months now for neck and shoulder pain. I notice one day when I woke up in the morning I realized I don't have the familiar pain I used to get every morning when I wake up. Not only did my neck and should pain subsides tremendously, Dr. Jen also fix my wrist pain which I found out was originally caused by my shoulder issue. She is such an AMAZING healer. I am so grateful and thankful for her in putting me back in alignment.
I believe in preventative care and having regular adjustment not only physically aligned my body but also my emotional state. I absolutely a fan of Dr. Jen.
Karen C. -
Review from Meta K.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 5/14/2012
After two years of receiving care from Alive I'm still a huge fan. Dr. Jen has been fantastic to me weather I've come to see her in major pain or if something just feels slightly "off" a visit with her always puts me right. Her location is wonderful and the office is so warm and friendly. I'm so lucky to have found her!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/10/2010
Working with Jen and Kara has been such a pleasure. The care and education they provides in… Read more »
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Review from Violette B.
Oakland, CA
5/9/2012
As a woman playing in an coed soccer league I get banged-up on a regular basis. Dr. Jen has been putting me back together for almost two years now.
A couple weeks ago I hyper-extended my knee and could barely walk. I was devastated! I had just made plans to go dancing and didn't want to cancel. I went to see Dr. Jen for my regular appointment. I told her about my dancing dreams thinking she would be able to help, but I wasn't expecting any miracles. She adjusted me, showed me an exercise to pump the blood out of my swollen knee, gave me some instructions on soaking and icing, and sent me off. And yes, a week later I was salsa dancing in time for Cinco de Mayo! Dr. Jenn is not only an amazing chiropractor and born healer, but she's also my fairy godmother! Next time I'll ask for a pumpkin carriage too! -
Review from Audrey H.
Oakland, CA
5/10/2012
Jenn has been so wonderful for me and my baby boy, Marcello. I started going to the chiropractor regularly during my pregnancy to help with lower back pain. I feel really lucky to have found Jen here in the east bay. She is helping me get my strength back, and stay fully functioning even with all the funny things I do to my body while caring for my son. He loves getting adjusted too! The office is super welcoming of me bring him, weather or not he gets adjusted, which makes it soo much easier for me! I always feel so good going in there! And it is way more affordable then other chiropractors, wich is great!!
I couldn't be happier!! -
Review from Thomas C.
Oakland, CA
5/9/2012
I started going to Alive Chiropractic at the suggestion of a friend who was greatly helped by Jen (my friend had basically broken the arch of her foot and the chiropractors at Alive helped her get her foot and life back!). I had been suffering from general back pain caused from poor posture and office life, and felt like I was in a rut. I had also never been to a chiropractor and didn't know what to expect.
I had a great first assessment with Jen - we had an interview and she adjusted me that first day, and I've never looked back! After a month of intensive (read: twice a week) adjustments and now weekly ones, I have felt a huge increase in my quality of life. My back pain has all but disappeared and my nervous system feel so vibrant - this may be corny, but going to Alive has really made me appreciate being alive! I feel much more in tune with my body, my posture has notably improved, and my energy has increased too. I also attended a few of the free classes that Jen offers along with chiropractic care - I am now a firm believer in the foam rolling my back daily - it's like a daily self-adjustment! One of Jen's core strengths is her eagerness and willingness to share her training and expertise - how many medical professionals give you this level of insight into your treatment?
Jen's approach is holistic but also realistic - she emphasizes that retraining your body with adjustments is difficult and takes time, and that life's external pressures can affect the course of treatment. Overall, I'm very happy with the health care I've received here and trust Jen as my chiropractor. I'm glad to have taken this step and look forward to a future with a healthy happy back and nervous system! -
Review from D K.
Emeryville, CA
3/30/2012
I posted this review in 2011 and it has been taken down, I assume at the behest of Alive:
My wife was under Jen's care at Alive after dealing w Muscle Spasms in her back. I was under Jen's care as well.
As part of the treatment plan we signed up for my wfe was eligible for a free massage. We went in together, she received adjustment and massage the same day. I watched her experience debilitating pain shortly after and she was diagnosed with a herniated disc in her back. She ultimately had to have a double discectomy in June of 2011 and her back has not been healthy since
We will not be repeat customers of Alive
I did receive a response from Jen when I first posted the original review:
"Hello D K.
I was quite surprised to come across this review today. It is difficult to make sense of it when I do not know exactly who you are. Nor do I recollect a recent conversation with a client about a matter such as this. We take our care for people very seriously and would love to have an opportunity to speak to your wife in a private forum.
Please consider allowing me this opportunity, thank you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jennifer Wilhelm, D.C."
Here was my reply which went unanswered:
"Jen-
My wife is (name withheld) and was most recently in your care in September of 2010, a month before our wedding. You will have records of when she came in September on a Monday to get adjusted and a massage.
She came back from this appointment in pain that she attributed to the massage which she felt was pretty firm. The next day, Tuesday, she was in alot of pain and her back was "locking up". On Wednesday she could barely get into and out of her car. That Wednesday night she barely walk had to get helped out of her car at a Dr's appointment. She ended up collapsing in the parking lot with horrible muscle spasms and we ended up in a Kaiser Emergency Room and we were in ER until 4 the next morning before we were able to get her stabilized in order to get her home.
The only reason why she was able to stand at the altar on our wedding day in October (2010) is because she was under the influence of muscle relaxers, steroids and pain killers. She was in pain for the duration of our honeymoon and she has been dealing with debilitating pain ever since. In November (2010) she started having shooting pain down her legs. An MRI revealed a herniation of the L5 disc . She has not responded to physical therapy or direct cortisone injections in her back. The last step for her to try and have any sort of quality of life will hopefully be a discectomy, which she is on a waiting list to get.
The last 8 months have been hell for her and she has completely broken down in tears on multiple occasions. She wants to start having kids soon but there is no way she can even consider bearing children until her herniation is repaired.
I believe you when you say you care about your patients, I remember you as being very sincere and passionate and caring. But I also believe your priority as a practice to to maximize the amount of patients you see vs taking the time to fully understand the physical limitations of your patients and adjust your treatments accordingly.
I talked to (name withheld) and she has no desire to meet with you. After watching the hell she has endured and seeing as, when this is all said and done, she will have lost a year of health and happiness I stand by my Yelp review and I think it is very fair." -
Review from Nick B.
San Francisco, CA
10/31/2011
I have dealt with pretty moderate back pain for years now. I was always hesitant to go to a chiropractor. After 8 months of consistant pain I listened to my girlfriend and went with her. My back has not felt this good in years! What the heck was I waiting for?
Dr. Kara and Jen made me feel very comfortable and welcome since day one. They have extensive knowledge in their field, and I now look forward to going and getting adjusted.
Thank you ladies! -
Review from Lily S.
Oakland, CA
11/13/2011
Alive Chiropractic rocks! If you are looking for holistic care that extends far beyond spinal adjustments, Alive is the place for you. The office is run by vibrant women who support and educate the community's through gentle alignments and free educational talks. I met the chiropractors (Jen and Kara) at the Rockridge street fair last year and have been getting care there ever since. I usually see Dr. Jen and have been very happy with the care she has provided.
For those of you out there thinking about chiropractic care, but are hesitant, or have never tried it before (trust me I know how you feel), this is a great office to experience your first chiropractic adjustment. Just go. You won't be disappointed :-) -
Review from Joie S.
Oakland, CA
2/17/2012
I've been to some good chiropractors over many years, and I think Jennifer Wilhelm at Alive is truly exceptional. She doesn't just treat the symptom, but is addressing the root cause so that my overall vitality is being restored. It is also the most beautiful and pleasant chiropractic office I've ever been in. Gemma at the front desk is terrific.
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Review from Jill K.
San Francisco, CA
12/17/2011
Alive is a wonderful practice that shows a sincere commitment to its patients and community. From the welcoming structure, furnishings, and layout of the facility, to the art on the walls drawn by local children, to the inviting reception experience and the chiro treatment itself, this is a group of practitioners who genuinely care about the people they serve. I am a firm believer in chiropractic and have even worked on Chiropractic reimbursement policy for an insurer, and I can say without a doubt that Alive charges a rate that is more than fair, without sacrificing on quality. I wholeheartedly believe in the Alive community!
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Review from lina z.
Berkeley, CA
1/31/2012
i started going to ALIVE because of lifelong back and neck issues. I felt a difference after the first adjustment. I love that the treatments are holistic, and that they really seem to care about you. On one of my visits I went in and as soon as Jen started to assess my spine she told me she felt something different in my spine that she hadn't felt before, and she kept making a "hmm" sort of noise. I turned onto my back and told her I was pregnant, and I swear she knew. She could feel it in my bones! :) Love these ladies, love the office, love how i feel!
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Review from Jill R.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 11/23/2011
Thought I would follow up as I reach my 2 year anniversary with ALIVE--I am happy to say it is all good news. My back is great. I began going frequently in early '09 and now I go less often. Although the issues I had are gone, stress still persists, but that is the body for you. it's nice to get adjusted to help ease tension. The free talks are a nice bonus and they are always adding new ones and rotating the schedule so it stays fresh! Yoga for the neck and the class on the breath were some of my personal favorites. I am thankful to have a continuing relationship with these lovely healers.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/11/2010
i am so happy i found Alive Chiropractic! i searched for a chiropractor on and off for a year (on… Read more »
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Review from Jo W.
Oakland, CA
4/6/2011
I started coming here after a recommendation from a friend of mine that I train with at my Muay Thai gym. Chiropractic care has been a part of my life on and off for many years but only since coming here have I started using it regularly as a tool to keep my body free from injury (or at least put it back in order when I do mess it up).
Kara and Jen are wonderful and skillful practitioners and are both great at really getting to know your body and how you use it in your life, what issues you commonly experience and how to adjust you so that you're back in tip top shape. They're also not shy about telling me when I need to take a quick break from training (running, weights, kickboxing) and let my body heal.
I've been coming here bi-monthly for over a year and the care I receive here is an invaluable tool to keep me feeling great in my body. -
Review from Jac W.
Oakland, CA
11/1/2011
Kara, was great to me, as I have a lot of problem areas and have seen chiropractors for years, I know a good one when I find one. I've also seen Jen and she was also professional and just as good as Kara. I'm a plumber and have problems with my neck, my wrist's, feet, knees, hips and my old aching back. I'm so appreciative of Alive Chiropractic! And, I'll keep going back when I need them. Especially when, they figure out things I had no idea what the problem was, like last month, Kara checked out my shoes because I was having trouble with my right foot and she noticed how my arch supports were different and not right. I went out and got what I needed and boom, my foot is better. Plus, the adjustment of my foot was great, whew, someone who pays excellent attention to me, knows the right questions to ask, checks out my shoes, figures it all out, how nice. Thanks Alive! Jac
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Review from T A.
Alameda, CA
6/1/2008
Well I did it -- I signed up for hippie boot camp and I'm in it to win it folks.
Met with Dr. Kara yesterday for my initial consultation and adjustment. She was fabulous.
I got a very comforting vibe from her immediately. She's very spiritual and asked how spiritual I was. When I told her I was #2 on a scale of 1-10, she circled that #2 many times w/her red pen and I raised my left brow with concern.
*Oh shit, what did I just get myself into?*
As my mind began to replay the time-line from walking in the door to this point, it all added up to that *Berkeley-yoga-shala-chakra-chi crap* that hippies go for spiritual awareness. The shoes at the front, the meditation CDs for sale, the couple leaving in all their layered, drapy clothing and a quick announcement that they wouldn't be in for a while, as they had a spiritual retreat to attend (rolling eyes).. Cmon people, give this chick a break!
But, sitting there, face to face with Dr. Kara who has the aura of a fairy dusted with glitter & granulated xanax, I could no longer keep up my candy-coated acceptance of my lack of spirituality. She was breaking me down in a kind, loving, mother earth-friendly manner.
Having been faced with this spirituality question and concern from my mom, shrinks of the past & my 'overly-Christian' auntie Rosie.. I'm getting the feeling that if I don't obtain some level of it, I'm going to keep relying on my control issues to guide me through this life instead of a connection to something greater than myself.
Wow, did I just say that shit? --- [Yes you did ya hippie!]
Dr. Kara's hands and activator snapped the spokes of my spine in place and she even worked on relocating my elbow, wrist and shoulder, which has bothered me for 2 years. No one else has noticed that it was out of alignment and I have a good feeling that with more sessions, Dr. Kara will be the one to end my shoulder pain that is the bane of my body's existence.
As I walked across Piedmont Ave. with my new foam roller and inflatable seat cushion, I kept thinking "man I'm fucking old".
Then a lady stopped to ask where I took pilates and it made me feel better to know that these objects don't make me 'old' - they're accessories to my wellness and it will start to show to the universe if I can apply it to my mind as well as my body.
Namaste bitches!
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Minus 1 star, had to go see regular doc to fix the chiro-work. Oww...oww, pain returned a week later and then some. :(Listed in: More funny than useful, but…, Piedmont Ave.
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Review from J T.
2/20/2008
I can't speak for the treatment at this clinic because I'm not a patient but I had visited the offices of ALIVE.
I visit probably 30 clinics a year for work. That being said, what impressed me most about this clinic is the complete sense of calm and tranquility I found just walking in the door. The colors, sounds and decor work really well.
The receptionist greeted me with a smile, even at 6:30 at night. -
Review from A.L. M.
Oakland, CA
4/18/2011
I came to Alive Chiropractic for some persistant lower back pain. I am an aerialist dancer, and I do some contortion, so it was important to me to find a chiropractor that could value what I do with my body (without talking me out of doing contortion) but also support me with expert chiropractic care and advice for body maintenance. Kara and Jen perfectly met the bill. They are both athletes and could understand from where I was coming. They helped me through my back pain, and later (after a car accident) through a nasty case of whiplash. (Sidenote: they expertly worked with my insurance on this.)
In addition, one of the most valuable aspects to treating with Alive Chiropractic has been their accessability. Booking appointments (even last minute ones) has been extremely easy as they have created a beautiful way of seeing more than one client at a time which allows for many appointment time options available. There is also two practitioners - Kara & Jen - both equally skilled. And, Alive Chiropractic has several payment plan options which make regular (even frequent) chiropractic care a manageable possibility for my somewhat budget-restrained pocketbook - a real plus!!!
Last but not least, the chiropractic office is beautiful! It has the atmosphere of a day spa. -
Review from Sri L.
Berkeley, CA
3/15/2008
I've been going to Dr. Jennifer Wilhelm for years and she is a very skilled and loving doctor. It is easy to see the benefits of regular chiropractic care in my own general health and wellbeing as well as my baby's.
I recommend her services for family care. She has been particularly helpful with the transition through pregnancy and into new motherhood. Jennifer has pulled me out of some wicked illnesses just before they got bad. She helped me bring my baby through a nasty ear infection without the use of antibiotics. The list goes on...
Oh, yes. The details. The office is comfortable. The adjusting times are open and flexible.The front desk staff is great. An added bonus: she sees babies for free! Moreover, massage and acupuncture are also offered. I've had great results with the acupuncturist, Joe Cleary (Manjusrimitra).
An addition: I just saw Dr. Kara because Jenn was sick and she's *great*. -
Review from Jen R.
Sebastopol, CA
9/26/2008 2 Check-ins Here
I was a ball of stress and pain when I did a Yelp search, found Alive, and made an appointment.
My hour long first appointment was way more than the 'where does it hurt, let me see and crack you' experience that I expected. Dr. Kara sat down with me explained her view of chiropractic practice, and what I should expect. She also adressed my role in the healing process and that is just what it is- her job is to prepare my body to heal itself. I was very impressed by this alternative approach.
She went through the few pages of questions I was asked to fill out prior to my visit and suggested some areas of my life where behaviors were affecting my body.
Years of swimming had overdevelopped my back muscles causing my shoulders to roll forward etc. And she highlighted that all the stress in my life-good and bad was being expressed in tension and pain. Then she made a treatment plan.
They have free monthly spinal classes one of which I attended that really made me think about how I move in my daily life and showed us small exercises we can do to strengthen ourselves.
Shortly after treatment began I moved again. Now that I am back in the Bay I cant wait to visit again.
Very relaxing and kind atmosphere where you know you are important and being cared for. -
Review from Kamesvari S.
Oakland, CA
3/15/2008
I have been receiving chiropractic care from Dr. Jennifer since the day she opened the doors at Alive, and prior to that I was fortunate enough to experience her care as a massage therapist (sorry, she's no longer seeing massage clients). She has always had an intuitive healing touch - and a real gift for connecting with what's going on in your body.
I've had the chance to witness her skills solidify, and her natural healing talent be enhanced by her continuing professional training in the field.
Two fantastic things about Jennifer's method of care are the fact that she makes it a priority to educate you about your health, and that she doesn't allow you to slack off in your self-care regimen. Alive offers really great packages for regular clients to help you with consistency of care. I know they also take insurance, but I don't have any right now so I don't know the details on this.
The environment at Alive is warm and loving. Community is emphasized, which I love. It really feels like dropping by a good friend's house.
During the recent flu epidemic, I went to see Jennifer after about 5 days of suffering the worst illness I've had in years. My body was miserable, every joint swollen and achy. The two treatments I had (two days apart) were some of the best I've ever had. I really experienced a complete shift in my body as the work Jen did allowed my body to move on with healing itself.
Alive also offers Massage and Traditional Chinese Medicine. I've had several Tui Na and Acupuncture sessions with Joe Cleary (aka Manjusrimitra) and I highly recommend his work. -
Review from ny h.
Emeryville, CA
4/7/2008
It was a coincidental accident that I happen to come across Jennifer at Alive. She had gotten a flat tire on her bike and needed a ride back to her neighborhood. Being that I also work in the health and wellness field (personal trainer), we had something in common! For being a good samaritan, she offered to do a free adjustment on me.
During the initial consultation, I listened quietly to what she had to say about my body. I was quite impressed with her knowledge and assessment overall. She's a lovely person and is amazing with her holistic chiropractic adjustments. After the first visit, my body was in a euphoric state!
The prices are quite reasonable (insurance accepted too) and ample parking on the street (metered).
Thank you so much for caring about my body! -
Review from Jamie D.
Albany, CA
7/2/2008
Even in an area like the East Bay with chiropractors on every corner, it can be difficult to find the right "one". The best thing about Alive Chiropractic is that they aren't just the right one, they are the right two! Dr. Jennifer and Dr. Kara are both phenomenal chiropractors and healers.
On two separate occasions they saved me from debilitating pain. About three months ago I threw my back out in yoga class. Without even thinking, I hobbled to my car and drove over the see Dr Jen. This was a Saturday and she wasn't even supposed to be working. Luckily she was there and adjusted me on the spot. Within two days the pain had diminished and after my second adjustment three days later, I was perfect.
The second occasion happened just last week. I twisted my ankle while running and was unable to walk the pain was so bad. Dr. Jen adjusted me while Dr. Kara gave my husband thorough instructions on how to care for my bum ankle. Mandatory foot massages were involved ;) Less than 24 hours after my adjustment, I was able to put pressure on my foot and even walk. It was seriously a miracle.
I highly recommend Dr. Jen and Dr. Kara. They are truly gifted and I am so grateful to have found them! -
Review from jennifer a.
Portland, OR
5/24/2010
I have been to a few chiropractors in the area and Jen and Kara are the best. Not only do they do great adjustments of my spine, hips, feet, etc., they also keep in mind my energy flow, my emotions, my diet, my fitness, etc. They are very holistic in their approach, which I love.
I love both of them and see them both, as I think it is nice to get a variety...plus it works better with my ever-changing schedule. Lindsay and Susan in the office are great as well, always sweet and ready to help. The office is beautiful and the energy of the whole place is great.
Jen and Kara also do a lot of great work for people in need...Kara recently went to Haiti and Jen is going to Brazil soon. They are quality women who are out to make the world a better place, one spine at a time. -
Review from Cris B.
San Francisco, CA
3/14/2008
Dr. Kara Waltz is a Super Gentle and Very Intuitive Chiropractor.
Her style is somehow gentle and spiritually powerful at the same time.
Now that I have had regular adjustments from Dr.Kara (since January)
I sleep better,feel more energy and just love the care from Dr.Kara! -
Review from emily j.
Oakland, CA
6/8/2009
I have been going to see the ladies of ALIVE Chiropractic since 2006, when there was just one lady.... the fabulous Dr Jen Wilhelm. When I first got to ALIVE, I had such bad knee and back pain that normal activities like sitting at my desk and walking were constantly painful. She straightened all that out, and has saved me from all the physical abuse I heap on myself a million times since.
A lot of places may pay lip service to a holistic approach to health and wellness, but these gals really produce it -not just the Drs Jen and Kara but also their desk staff, Bethani and Jess. They're all funny and lively and are full of excellent advice. Not only do they take care of my bones but they've inspired me to take better care of myself, which was no small feat.
The practice recently moved into a beautiful house just off of Piedmont Ave. It's quiet, it smells nice, and the interior is both comfortable and very gracefully decorated. Jen and Kara's approach is to have multiple people on the tables at once and make the series of adjustments on their patients in a relaxed time-frame, so you never feel rushed in and out. Ahh, relaxation.
Because I started with Dr Jen and she knows me well, I usually make my appointments with her, but I have also had the pleasure of seeing Dr Kara a couple of times now, and she is equally wonderful. -
Review from Kimberly W.
Oakland, CA
8/31/2011
The most awesome chiropractic care! I immediately feel relaxed when I lay on the table and listen to the quiet music.
Dr. Jen is truly amazing, gentle, and caring.
She is the best chiropractor I have been to! -
Review from Lisle B.
Alameda, CA
4/4/2008
Alive Chiropractic has two GREAT Chiropractors, Dr. Jennifer Wilhelm is simply amazing, her own story of healing and recovery after a broken neck has been inspiring while learning how to take care of my back and neck during her spinal care classes.
She is gentle an intuitive healer, she has helped me to release years of tension and trauma locked in my body.
I've had so rough goes with chiropractors and she asked me what makes a good chiropractor during my first adjustment and I said if they hug and she gave me a big hug which that day I needed as I was feeling pretty depressed. So I've nicknamed her Good Chiropractor, she is very kind and gentle.
Recently I got to be adjust my Dr. Kara and she too has a very gentle and kind healing touch. It was amazing, what I liked best was that it was a little different than my regular adjustments so I really feel like we got a great team of Chiropractors.
See my review for acupuncturists Joe Cleary! -
Review from Brenda T.
Hayward, CA
8/9/2009
I went to the Lakeshore Festival in Oakland, CA and met Dr Kara through a friend of mines. She was very warm and friendly as she greeted me. I've had a lot of massages but I've never had my back adjusted before so she offered to do it for me for free.
I had no idea what to expect at all but she made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire session. I have a hard time relaxing in situations like this but she totally got me to loosen up. She ended up adjusting my alignment a bit and was able to identify some issues with my back -she was pretty good at predicting and identifying my issues.
Towards the end of the session, she did some type 'o ninja move and cracked my entire back which felt amazing! I felt all of my tension release immediately. She ended the session by giving me a shoulder massage which felt incredibly nice.
I will definitely make some arrangements with her in the future. -
Review from laura m.
Oakland, CA
8/27/2008
After several years of back and neck pain, I finally had enough, thanks to yelp found Dr Jen.
Please know I'd never been to a chiropractor, nor did ever have a desire to even try. It's now been a couple of months of treatment and I'm hooked, and from day one I felt 100% better, and more aware of my body. Dr Jen is honest, calm, understanding, sweet, and explained each and everything that I should expect. This is not what I thought chiropractic treatment would be like at all. I feel amazing, thanks Dr Jen. My world is new, calm and aware, and I can't imagine life without ALIVE. -
Review from cindy i.
Oakland, CA
12/11/2009
Oh man. I love this place! Dr. Jen was a wonderful person to work with for my wonky alignment issues. The treatments are downright addictive. Despite the fact that they have really good payment plans and enticing bulk buying options, my bank account was NOT happy with me. I'm telling you: addictive. In all seriousness, though, they do have some wicked good deals if you buy multiple sessions, and it's totally worth it. We're talking about your health, mang!
The space itself is clean and relaxing, and as an awesome bonus, Jess (the receptionist) is super friendly and helpful.
I will say that their practice is not for everyone. If you're looking for a place that resembles a typical bustling doctor's office, with a fast-paced western medicine feel, Alive Chiropractic might not be for you - though it's probably a good idea to go for just a consultation to decide for yourself. It feels much more like a very professional and clean yoga or massage studio (and they DO offer massage, incidentally). -
Review from Jagadamba S.
Berkeley, CA
6/30/2008
Jennifer took care of me throughout my pregnancy and helped me out during my labor. Through her I discovered that my chronic, nausea inducing headaches were actually a byproduct of misalignments in my neck and mid-back.
She is intuitive, caring, and an incredibly talented healer. And a great decorator too! The atmosphere in her office is amazing - the setting alone makes me automatically relax. And it's also kid friendly!
Another plus - she's surrounded herself with such a great community of patients, other practitioners, and friends. Wonderful place to get chiro work done. -
Review from Jodie S.
Walnut Creek, CA
7/12/2008
Dr. Jenn is the best Chiropracter I've had. I've had back problems for over ten years (and I'm not even thirty yet)! Dr. Jenn is very gentle, sweet, caring, and can tune into my body and it's problem areas. Since I've been seeing her for the past year I've felt my best. She's also taught me reasonable exercises to do at home and at work to keep the pain away...and they're really effective! I truly appreciate and am grateful for the care she gives. I was referred and have been referring her to others that love and value her as well.
The location might seem a little scary because her office is located on Piedomt Ave., but don't let that deter you...there is plenty of parking on the street behind her office no matter what time of day I go.
For the people who are scared of being adjusted, she is super gentle and always makes sure your comfortable before making a move.
THANKS Dr. Jenn!!! -
Review from Jo S.
Oakland, CA
12/7/2009
Jen and Kara of Alive Chiropractic have helped me to overcome most of my chronic pain in the shoulder, back and neck after three months of consistent care.
Most importantly, they have given me a fresh perspective on pain, wellness and treatment.
Each visit is like a special weekly treat. I would say that Alive Chiropractic is a sanctuary for people who are actively working towards an integrated approach to health. -
Review from Matthew C.
Oakland, CA
1/16/2009
Having never tried chiropractic care before I was unsure as to what I could expect. Alive Chiropractic is an amazing practice run by Drs. Jen and Kara. A majority of my experience was with Dr. Jen, and she is a caring, professional chiropractor. Not only are the adjustments gentle and effective they also offer free classes on Spinal Care to help your adjustments last longer.
In addition to great care, their space is very nicely designed and fosters an atmosphere of well-being. I highly recommend this business to all yelpers looking for a great chiropractor. -
Review from Annette C.
Piedmont, CA
1/6/2010
Love love love this place! I stumbled on it when looking on yelp for a new chiropractor closer to our new home in the east bay. Boy, was I lucky! No x-rays, no electric switches, just touch and lots of talking things through.
I have had severe scoliosis since junior high school, wore one of those horrible back braces, and have neglected my body in hopes that it will all just go away. But after two pregnancies, the second one for twins, I realized that I need to start taking better care of my body. But even with these physical issues, I'm a firm believer in emotions and particularly stress taking its toll on our bodies.
Jenn and her partner Kara totally get that, and I love that they get that. Holistic for them is not only focusing on your entire body, but also including your emotional state.
Their practice has three bright, sunny, flowing rooms: the waiting room, one adjustment room with three beds, and a back room with one bed and a children's corner. At first I was unsure about the shared room, but it's really really nice. Sometimes it's chatty. Sometimes it's totally silent with only deep breathing and adjustment noises. But it is always always relaxing, and the right mood for that particular day.
They also have a great massage partner Maureen. Adjustment downstairs, massage upstairs, can't beat that combo! -
Review from Kim O.
Oakland, CA
4/19/2011
I read the reviews before I went here, "Great !" I thought- "a holistic caring chiropractor in a great neighborhood!" So being open minded and hopeful for a new kind of Chiropractor experience I gave them a try- they were listed under my insurance too!
When I got there I took my shoes off answered a TON of questions on their new patient questionnaire. Ok no problem.
I got a long lecture from the chiropractor (apparently there was some scheduling confusion about who was going to see their new patient) about how going to a chiro should work, a little scolded on being a patient who only goes in for "crisis situations" ie: I need an adjustment and I go in. I got some flack for being 24 & married- she said I was awfully young to be married. UMMM mind your own business & don't judge me- then I was asked a series of prying questions about me stressors and pushed to go to therapy(!) to help work out some of my stress. The chiropractor has no business prying into my personal life that deep, saying I'm under a lot of stress lately & I'm working on it should suffice!! Just ridiculous!
Got like half an adjustment & was left in pain & afterword had with an excruciating headache. She asked me to come back to finish the visit later.
Then they billed me $130 because they won't bill your insurance on the first visit.
Following which I canceled my follow up appointment which they pushed me into booking in the first place. Then they called and left me two additional voicemails urging me to reschedule.
Too pushy, too personal, too judgmental. No Thanks! -
Review from Elyse W.
Oakland, CA
7/29/2010
This place is amazing. I had an awful experience with chiropractic in the past and avoided it like the plague for over 10 years. I was more than willing to go for massage but there are things massage therapists just can't do such as readjust spines.
This place does have an overly spiritually hippy healer vibe to it which isn't usually my forte by Dr.Jennifer has a magic gift. After only a few weeks of weekly adjustments my back and neck feel 100% more flexible and open. A feeling that really can't be described in words.
If you are having any hesitations about chiropractic as a healing medicine or have had bad experiences in the past like me. This place is you answer. Check it out, you'll probably get addicted. I do have to agree with others on the site though. The receptionists are a little clueless. -
Review from Rosie L.
Berkeley, CA
9/23/2008
Jennifer has been my chiropractor for over a year now and she's helped me feel so much more ease-ful in my body throughout.
Jennifer has a loving touch, a great attitude, a wonderful sense of humor and - of course! - is very skillful, experienced and intuitive.
The atmosphere in her office is friendly, professional, supportive and fun. I have sent many of my clients to her to benefit from the excellent care that she provides.
Thanks, Jennifer! You are the best!!! -
Review from Cassa G.
Oakland, CA
6/16/2008
I've been regularly visiting Alive for the past 4 months, and should probably set up a revival tent for all the witnessing I do about this place. It has seriously changed my quality of life. Kara is super, but since I've seen Jen the most, I'd have to base this review primarily on her. I'll casually throw something like, "My chiropractor reminded me the other day about the importance of seeing past my current situation and remembering that things will change," into conversation, and folks are like, "Uh, what kind of chiropractor are you seeing?" The best kind, ladies and gentlemen! The holistic approach makes so much more sense and has made a huge difference for me. I'm really grateful that these ladies were recommended to me.
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Review from Michelle L.
Oakland, CA
4/5/2008
I was having neck and shoulder pain. I have only been twice to see Jennifer Wilhelm, but I am no longer feeling the constant pain. I feel like she is miracle worker, healer, generous, kind spirited professional who educates and encourages while giving adjustments. I had a bad experience with a chiropractor once, so I was hesitant to go, but Jennifer put me at ease and has done wonders for my body. She has great energy, a wonderful space, and you will surely benefit from her healing hands and energy. I highly recommend her!
