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Back To Health Center
Categories: Health and Medical Chiropractors Beauty and Spas Massage Health and Medical Acupuncture Chiropractors, Massage, Acupuncture [Edit]
900 Prince StAlexandria, VA 22314
(703) 683-7771
- Hours:
Mon, Wed 7 am - 6 pm
Tue, Thu 3:30 pm - 8 pm
Fri 7 am - 12 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
"Top Doctor" specializing in Rehabilitation Medicine, Pain Management, Acupuncture, and Chiropractic located in Foggy Bottom and McLean. Walk-ins now… read more »
24 reviews for Back To Health Center
24 reviews in English
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Review from Katie K.
Alexandria, VA
5/16/2012
I wish I could remember the name of the woman who worked on me, but unfortunately I can't.
I'd been having back issues for a while. I think it was a combination of an old mattress and a crappy chair at work. But for whatever reason, the pain was just getting worse and worse.
I'd heard good things about this place from coworkers and seen the other reviews on Yelp, so I thought I'd give it a try. I called and was able to schedule a 45 minute back massage for the next day during my lunch break.
I went there and I was the only client there. The little Boston Terrier was adorable and it was fun to play with him while I waited for the girl to get there and prep the room.
I was lead to a back room that was small, but very pleasant to be in. Candles were lit and there was soft music playing. The blinds were down, but there was some sunlight peeking thru, which was fine by me.
We discussed my problem areas (lower back and my right shoulder) and she said while she would defiantly focus on those areas, asked if I'd like her to spend time anywhere else (Which I thought was nice because I came here specifically to work on my back and didn't want time to be spent on my arms or legs or anywhere else). She was fine with my request of neck and back only. Then the standard "get undressed to the point you feel comfortable and I'll be back".
The bed was comfortable and with the candles and music, it was easy to become instantly relaxed and zone out.
Well, the massage was AMAZING. I kind of can't put into words how incredible it felt. She focused on the areas we had discussed and kept her word about not doing anything else. She applied just the right amount of pressure that helped elevate the pain, but didn't make me wince from too much pressure.
I dozed off because of how relaxed I was. The only thing I disliked was that I had only booked a 45minute appointment. Towards the end I seriously considered asking her to keep going and just take my credit card out of my purse. haha.
As for the price, it was very reasonable, especially after researching other places around Old Town.
It was a great experience and I look forward to going back. -
Review from Meesh H.
Alexandria, VA
2/8/2012
First off; let me say that I've never written a review on Yelp but feel I have to for Dr. Shara. AMAZING! I have been suffering with back pain for about 10 years, living with various medications and the constant tightness. After a recent blowout over Christmas (so bad that I was so medicated that I don't remember the holiday at all!) I had to try something new.
I hadn't realized how bad it was at the everyday level until I started seeing Dr. Shara. We are still working on getting me 100% but this past weekend was a revelation. After seeing her for a quick adjustment before my car trip....I had the first weekend in forever in which I felt...normal. I was able to walk around and not feel the need to sit down every 30 mins to let me back rest. (My husband and I spent the day at an indoor gardens and I was able to photograph the flowers for hours.) I got home from work on Monday and didn't feel the need to immediately take a nap (for the past 3 years I've needed a nap just to be able to rest enough to make dinner). I'm sleeping better! I'm waking up and not feeling like I need to roll over and sleep another ten hours!
So overall; the work she's done for me has not only helped the pain of my lower back but my overall health. I feel more normal than I have in years.
I had never been to see a chiropractor before and I'm so glad that I found this place!
Dr. Shara is so understanding; cooperative and does a great job and making the treatment feel effortless. Her staff is friendly and on top of things. Overall; I'm just pleased to have found a place that makes me feel comfortable and pain-free without the added stress of having to see someone for it. -
Review from DC Y.
Alexandria, VA
5/21/2012
Just had a msassage from Stacie at Back to Health in Old Town Alexandria. I found this place through a living social deal.
Simply put, Stacie gave one of the best massages I have ever had. She was pleasant, professional, and has a gift for massage.
Yes, it is true - if you are looking for a spa like enviornment with robes and soothing fake waterfalls, then this isn't the experience you will get here. However, the place was nice, quiet, clean and the heated table was fantastic.
I will definitely be going back again. -
Review from Ben R.
Alexandria, VA
11/16/2011
My wife and I have both used Dr. Posner at Back to Health Center, and have referred our clients, friends and family to them. We've both used their chiropractic, acupuncture and massage therapy services, and have been extremely happy with them across the board. Highly recommended!
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Review from Shannon M.
Alexandria, VA
4/1/2011
Dr. Shara is absolutely wonderful. She is extremely caring and made me feel 150% comfortable and at home in the office.
I look forward to my future visits and wish I would have found Dr. Shara and Back to Health when I first started going to a chiropractor.
Insurance is accepted; street parking wasn't too bad mid-morning. -
Review from Maya H.
Alexandria, VA
9/16/2011
I rarely Yelp but l just have to share my experience here at Back to Health.
Just make the appointment, Dr Shara is the BEST chiropractor I've been to and believe me I've been to a few. She loves her job and Im sure that's why she finally figured out what has been going on with my back after only ONE visit.
I've suffered from muscle pain and tension which limits motion and leaves me in pain every morning when I get up. Instead of doing the run of the mill chiro work on me she really sat with me to figure out what had been done in the past and how she would be able to do things differently.
A few adjustments, discussions about posture, diet and a massage later I was about pain free! My pain when I went in was around a 7/8, I left there about a 2/3.
I love her already! Personable, loves her work and just all around a great person to chat with about health etc.
Just make the appointment, you won't regret it! -
Review from Katie M.
Washington, DC
2/9/2011
I used my living social coupon for the 30min reflexology and 60min swedish massage. The location has a slight doctor office feel but it was very comfortable and relaxing if you aren't super oversensitive to that sort of thing. The street parking isn't too bad. The was only a very brief wait time before my appointment.
Stacie was very friendly and professional. We had a short discussion on my preferences/problem areas, and then gave me an extremely relaxing massage- totally what i needed.
I'm going back soon to try out the chiropractic services for the first time. The receptionist was really helpful in answering my questions about what the appointment process is and how it works with insurance.
Edit: Went back for chiropractic: Dr. Shara was on maternity leave but Dr. Angela who is filling in at this time did an awesome job on my back. Thorough health history and exam, great adjustment, and useful after-care instructions -
Review from T P.
Washington, DC
1/5/2011
This was my first experience with both Thai massage and the Back to Health Center. The facility was bright and clean and certainly lent itself to relaxation. Everyone's different, but I don't require a spa environment to feel tranquil - honestly, unless I'm splurging on a service at a high-end establishment, my preference is for attention to sanitation over luxe spa accoutrement. And given that the Center is primarily a health care facility, I understood that I would be paying for a service, not swaddled in a fancy robe and transported to a far-away land while sipping lemon-cucumber water.
The service itself was more towards the "relaxing" side of the massage spectrum than "intense" (ie, deep tissue massage). As someone who will have my muscles "worked out" with the occasional massage (think tua-na or deep tissue, preferably resulting in tears and/or sharp hikes of body temperature) it was nice to try something new. I felt refreshed after my hour with Alaja and her poultice. One thing to keep in mind, depending on your state of undress, there are a few positions and movements that require some checking of modesty at the door.
Overall, a pleasant service and one that I would recommend for those who like to relax with a light massage. -
Review from Dee H.
Centreville, VA
6/26/2011
I came here to cash in on a Groupon to get my bikini laser-ed and then again for a massage. This place was pretty awesome. Always clean and the staff was friendly! They treated my lady parts with tender loving care... Except the hair which was not welcomed back! The hour long back massage was pretty relaxing and despite the haul to Alexandria I would go back! The only downside was finding parking. There is a private lot but if it's full you have to feed the street meters your precious ice cream money.
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Review from Tiffany S.
Alexandria, VA
1/2/2011
The best acupuncture and chiropractic care in the area.
Dr. Joanie and Dr. Shara are caring, professional and wonderful at what they do. Both doctors are smart, intuitive and thorough - and they really listen to the patient.
I have been to many chiropractors and several acupuncture professionals in the DC area over the years, and have never received the quality of care I get at Back To Health. Added bonus: Susanna at the front desk is wonderfully nice and accommodating.
Brava to the whole team of skilled women! -
Review from Courtney R.
Arlington, VA
12/16/2008
My neck, my back, my...
If you're even a little ghetto-fab you know the rest of the lyrics, so I'll spare the easily offended on Yelp and move on.
When I woke up last Sunday with a sore back, it was just uncomfortable. By Wednesday, it felt as if rigamordis had set in. It was so bad all I could do was stand there and cry. Cry baby, cry! That's right, I'm a weak bitch when confronted with constant pain.
I checked my PPO Web site to find the closest doctor who would give me pain killers. All those recreational nights were coming back to bite me in the ass, hard. Nobody was open/there. So I went chiropractic. Back to Health is literally right next door to my place.
I walked in, and Dr. Shara assessed me. She said my back was in serious spasm and that she wasn't going to Xray me, but treat me as if I had a herniated disc.
She put me on the pulse machine thing, then took me into another room where she put the moves on me, literally! She calmly talked to me as she massaged my shoulders then BAM! She punched me right in the spine. Then she jumped on me and cracked my spine on both sides. I could stand up. I could bend! I was almost... back to health.
I've been going every other day and my back is much better. Dr. Shara is very cool and down to earth--a cute ex-Jersey girl with a lot of chutzpah. I highly recommend this place.
That being said, I've only been to one other chiro about five years ago, after my friend grabbed my leg in mid-Kung fu kick outside the Verizon center after a Wizards game and I crashed down on my hip. And lost my wallet. The night before I was flying out to DJ in India for New Year's. Then a priest found it and returned it to my parents' house all the way in Woodbridge, Va. But I digress. Even so, isn't that an awesome story?
**UPDATE** When I went this morning, Dr. Shara thanked me for my Yelp review. As a testament to the power of Yelp! (and to highlight Dr. Shara's awesomeness), I got some pretty flowers today in further thanks. Maybe I should keep hurting my back? Thanks Dr. Shara if you're reading this (and you most likely are)! ;) -
Review from Meredith C.
Alexandria, VA
Updated - 6/21/2010
I have been meaning to update this review for so long...
After taking a tumble while hiking back in March, I found myself immobilized a few days later. What I had passed off as a "crick in my neck" was suddenly debilitating, so I talked to my dad about his experience with back pain and decided to see a chiropractor. I happened to remember Back to Health after my massage there and decided to give it a shot.
A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.
I think that I was in awe of Dr. Shara within about 5 minutes. She knew where my pain was located, exactly what touch would make it better, and could tell me how long it would take to be fully healed. She told me that in my clumsy stumble down the mountain, I had managed to give myself whiplash, but that she could make it better. She was practical about saying that I knew my schedule and my insurance coverage and whether repeated visits were practical for me (which very fortunately, they are). They also file insurance claims for you, which is awesome.
Within my first session, I felt MUCH better. Within a few weeks, I felt almost fully healed. Now I go in every few weeks or so for tightness in my neck, etc., but I'd say I have been back to my pre-accident shape for quite a while.
After a few weeks, Dr. Shara told me she had just noticed my prior review, in which I stated that I had been a little irritated that I had to wait quite a long time for my appointment. She stated that she is a stickler for punctuality, and that she wanted to give me a gift certificate good for $1 for every minute that I had waited. So I scheduled a facial, which was really refreshing and nice. I tend to get gross flakes during the winter months and so I was ready for a really great facial to help get rid of my winter skin and be ready for spring.
I purchased a couple of Thai massages from Living Social and can't wait to redeem them--the first one is coming up soon!
All in all, I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a nicer group of people, and they definitely know what they are doing when it comes to making your back health better. I had been reduced to tears over my injury and walked away from my initial visit shocked at what a difference chiropractic care made. Up until then, my association with chiropractors was my 80-something year old great aunt oohing and aahing over hers and telling me that she wanted to set me up with him. But Dr. Shara has turned me into a believer!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/4/2010
I bought a Living Social gift certificate for a 60 minute warm stone massage (just $40 for a $100… Read more »
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Review from Holly J.
Alexandria, VA
10/27/2010
If there is any part of you hesitant about going to a chiropractor, my only recommendation is to call Dr. Shara's office and just give them a chance. I promise you will not be disappointed.
I've spent well over 8 years on and off medication for back pain, physical therapy, crawling out of bed, hoping the next move wasn't going to be the wrong move to throw it out again, etc. etc. all because I was so fearful of going to a Chiropractor. When I decided that I would no longer allow my fear to keep me from trying something new, I made my appointment and I've been singing praises every since.
Dr. Shara is very knowledgeable, resourceful, professional, and personable. You will not be disappointed in her services or the outcome! -
Review from Arica y.
Alexandria, VA
1/27/2011
A bad fall on my bike sent me to Dr. Shara and Dr. Joanie. They are both very thorough, professional and have an amazing caring mannerism.
First the chiropractic care -- I came in just doubled over in pain. Dr. Shara took a lot of time to get my history, examine me, etc. Then she went to work. She also provided additional physical therapy exercises to do on my own. I've been so impressed. I also picked up tips on sleeping position whether you are injured or healthy. I feel so good not to be in pain.
Some lingering knee issues led me to Dr. Joanie. I have experience with accupuncture and must state up front, I have always found the treatments invaluable. Dr. Joanie was superb. She is professional, and provided quality treatments. My knee is so much better -- nice to get that working again.
Oh, and I really appreciate the front office staff and their appointment reminder system. -
Review from Raley S.
Washington, DC
12/13/2010
I had a Living Social deal for a massage and reflexology, both of which left much to be desired. First of all, like another review said, the place feels like a doctor's office, which does not really relax. Then, the massage room was very cold (probably around 68 or so), to the point that my feet were frozen while the person was working on my arms. I asked for higher temperatures, and the response I got was less than enthusiastic to accommodate. I was told the building has one heat setting, and he acted like he wasn't going to do anything about it. He then reluctantly turned on the massage blanket that was under me, which helped, but the whole thing, including the slightly hostile reaction, was a bit stressful.
And the massage itself was unimpressive. The guy who massaged had a bad breath, and kept leaning over me. And I later discovered that my legs had bruises from his reflexology techniques. His interest in giving a good massage was a 1 out of 10. His hands felt unconvinced, and the whole demeanor was like he was being forced to do it. Maybe he was having a bad day, but I left the place with utter disatisfaction.
If you want an amazing massage, I recommend Tusuva in Adams Morgan. BY FAR, the best massage place in the DC area. Consistently they give exceptional massages.Comment from shara p. of Back To Health Center 12/26/2010
We have attempted to contact Raley S privately to apologize… More » -
Review from Valarie C.
Alexandria, VA
11/8/2010
Came here for a massage from a Living Social deal. The waiting room has a dr's office feel as the main business here is the chiropractor, not the masseuse. That being said, I was in quickly and had a very lovely massage. My neck and back felt much better afterwords and I felt very comfortable throughout the experience. The only small gripe I have is that it can be a challenge to find parking in this area.
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Review from Jessica A.
Denver, CO
6/11/2010
As a massage therapist for the past ten years, I am incredibly picky about the bodywork I receive. I first happened upon Back to Health when I had just moved to Alexandria two years ago, and since that time have had the pleasure of working with nearly all the practitioners there. I have to say that I have been incredibly pleased with all my experiences at Back to Health, and always leave feeling fabulous. So much so, in fact, that I refer all my own clients there! Definitely check out this great gem!
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Review from Frehewet Z.
Alexandria, VA
10/12/2011
I had a problem with pain all over my body. All my muscle and my joint hurts all the time. Especially after I started bic/ spin class I injured my left feet. I was in the process of losing weight by going KZX/ dance every day. But when my pain got really worse, that is when I decided to find Chiropractic. I started seeing Dr. Angela. The first day I meet her I felt I was in good hand. She made me feel very comfortable. She is always happy to see her client. With the treatment slowly I was able to start back my KZX. I didn't have severe pain like I had before I went to see her. Also she calls and check on you to follow up your progress. The price is very reasonable and you would not be disappointed. If you have a problem with pain I suggest you should try to see DR. ANGELA!!! she is the BEST!!!! love love love her.
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Review from Erin S.
Alexandria, VA
2/23/2011
I stumbled upon BTH's reviews while reading reviews for another business. I've been a patient for Dr. Shara for three years. I suffer from migraines and daily headaches and Dr. Shara has dramatically improved my pain. Unfortunately, the migraines will never go away but since seeing Dr. Shara the frequency has decreased and seeing her helps keep them away. Her office hours work with just about anyone's schedule and she is very accommodating and Susannah does a great job with scheduling. I've received lots of massages and as with any good massage it is up to the customer to speak up if something is not working. I've seen a few therapists at BTH and they were all wonderful. Right now Dr. Shara is on maternity leave and Dr. Angela is doing a great job of taking care of her patients.
P.S. Dr. Shara' dog, Winston greets every patient when you enter and he always makes me laugh. -
Review from Mike P.
Alexandria, VA
1/17/2011
While I can not speak for the acupuncture or massage therapy, I can speak for the work Dr. Shara has performed. I went to see Dr. Shara after my wife suggested I look into chiropractic care for my chronic shoulder pain. After the first visit, Dr. Shara was able to identify the problem and give me a plan for addressing it through her care. Everything was professional and relaxed and the staff was very pleasant. It was a long process, but the pain I have been feeling in my shoulder for over 10 years has subsided (I have seen other doctors but, I have not gotten any relief). Dr. Shara worked very hard and sometimes the work was painful but, I always felt better after the work was done. I will continue to visit Dr. Shara for maintenance and will recommend her to anyone who is looking for chiropractic assistance.
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Review from Caity D.
Alexandria, VA
11/10/2009
The Back To Health Center is excellent! Dr. Shara is extremely professional, friendly and knowledgeable. I have received both chiropractic and massage services at her center and I highly recommend both. Others who I have referred to her center have been very pleased with the results. She provides quality holistic services, is a plethora of information and will always make you smile. She even takes care of the insurance for you! Love it!
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Review from C B.
Arlington, VA
12/3/2010
I have been seeing Dr. Shara for about a year now, and have nothing but good things to say about her and the team at Back-to-Heath.
Chiropractic Care: Dr. Shara is a doctor you learn to have complete trust in very quickly. She knows her craft, and stays on top of best practices and emerging techniques. In addition to routine maintenance, I have gone to her with emergency back pain keeping me up at night. She was able to see me right away; she pushed, twisted, used some vibrating pads and viola, I was as good as new!
Also, about 10 months ago I got a request from Back-to-Health to reschedule an appointment. -- A last minute policy was about to get adopted in a health care legislation, and Dr. Shara was joining a group of other practitioners to work on an outcome that was in the best interest of patients. I was very happy to reschedule, and loved knowing that Dr. Shara was not only good at chiropractic care but is also civically engaged.
Massage and Facials: I've had several of each at Back-to-Heath, and well... I keep going back for more! I've had a bunch of each type of service elsewhere, but none as good as theirs.
Customer Service: Their billing, insurance, appointment setting, etc. is all top-notch, very customer friendly and always prompt. -
Review from Wendy S.
Alexandria, VA
2/20/2011
I can't say enough great things about everyone at Back to Health. Barely able to walk, I submitted an appt. request online on a Friday evening and got a call back from Dr. Shara within the hour. She offered to see me in the office the next day, when she wasn't normally scheduled to work. After a thorough exam she explained everything about what would need to be done for my treatment program. This was right before she went out on maternity leave and the transition to Dr. Angela has been seamless. Scheduling appts has been easy, and the office runs like a finely tuned machine. Everyone takes the time to answer my questions and explain what they are doing and the benefits. I am happy with the results I am getting from chiropractic care and love that it has been easily enhanced by Joy, the massage therapist, who also works in the office and gives a great therapeutic deep tissue massage, really concentrating on those areas where I needed it most.
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Review from Scott C.
Alexandria, VA
8/30/2011
I discovered the Back to Health Center when I was searching for a remedy for painful patellar tendonitis. It felt like I had torn the tendon and initially consulted an orthopedic surgeon, but MRI images were negative. I took time off from running, went to a physical therapist who specialized in sports injuries, took more time off--nothing worked. Then I made an appointment with Dr. Shara at the Back to Health Center. Wow, what a difference! Dr. Shara is terrific. She's very attentive, skilled, and knowledgeable about health issues. Within a few sessions, I went from not being able to run at all due to the pain intensity to having minimal discomfort that dissipated after a few minutes of warming up. I highly recommend Dr. Shara's services. The office, which is conveniently located in Old Town Alexandria, is professionally managed and runs like clockwork. I never had to wait long for an appointment.
