I have been under a doctor's care since 1994 because of industrial injuries that developed during my employment as a computer programmer. I had a 3-level cervical fusion in 1996, rotator cuff impingement surgery in 1999 and 2001, and then surgery for radial nerve entrapment in my right arm in 2003. Since 2004 doctors have been trying to find the cause of continuing aching low back pain and deep pain in my right thigh. I have taken several different medications for inflammation and pain over the past 9 years. Three months ago I began once-a-week physical therapy for core strengthening. I have had physical therapy 4 or 5 times in the past 16 years which has gradually reduced muscles to some extent and improved my ability for about a year.
I started acupuncture with Steve Phillips June 15th. After the first visit I could immediately stand up straight. My friends commented on it. With every visit my pain was reduced a little more, the muscle spasms were less, and my flexibility was greater. After 16 visits my overall pain has dropped from 7/10 to 3/10. The pain in my right buttocks is gone. The pain in my right leg has gone from 8/10 to 3/10. My pain in my neck and shoulders is usually 2/10, my lower back pain above my waist is 0, and below my waist is 3-4/10. Standing, I can touch the floor with my finger tips–before I could only get close–11 inches. The quality of my life, my mental attitude, and my ability to function is immeasurably better!!!
I have had chronic neck pain for over 4 years. About 2-3 times per month I would wake up in the morning and not be able to move my neck. This made driving pretty much unbearable. I have tried chiropractors, massage therapy, had several sets of x-rays done and completed physical therapy. I didn't want to change my lifestyle either. I drive a lot, sit at a computer a lot and exercise often. But it seemed like no matter what I tried I would still get neck pain. Nothing worked for me until I started acupuncture about 3 months ago. My friend, who also goes to Steve, referred me to his acupuncture clinic. I feel so much relief from acupuncture. Since I have started acupuncture I have had mornings free of neck pain and its great. Its also a very relaxing experience for me as well. I just about fall asleep during my treatments. I have already started recommending acupuncture to my friends and family.
Thanks Steve!
K. Newbill
In 1978 I rolled and was thrown from a pickup truck. The truck ended up landing on me smashing me from the shoulders down. Since that time I have been plagued with chronic neck and upper back pain. Since 1978 I have tried a number of things to alleviate the pain. I have tried massage, physical therapy, heat, ice, & chiropractic (usually see a chiropractor 20-25 times EVERY year.) While I have got some relief from the pain it is usually short lived. To make matters even worse in 2007 I rolled my car and was again pinned for over an hour half in half out of the car. Pain began spiraling out of control. My neck would get so tight I had a hard time turning to my left at all.
After 10 weeks of chiropractic care this year I talked to my Primary Care physician who recommended physical therapy. I opted to try Acupuncture first and am very glad I did. I felt some relief after the first treatment with Steve and had marked improvement after just 3 visits. By visit number 6 I felt ready to settle in for just maintenance appts as I felt so good.
Steve is Great!
Lisa P.
I was referred to Steve Philips by Kaiser Permanente for neck pain due to an auto accident. Since starting treatment over 2 months ago the pain has been controllable. The disc problem is still there, but through the treatments I have received I am able to work and resume my life.
Bill H.
Sacramento, CA
Hello my name is Jeffrey Shaffer and I'm 47 Years old and this is my story. About 2 years ago I began seeking medical help for my neck pain that was affecting my life to the point I could not move with out major pain. It turned out after a year of tests and several doctors, major doses of Methadone, Vicodan and Motrin 800 mg after being on this treatment for another 8 months, my orthopedic doctor recommended an alternate treatment. I was referred to Steve Phillips and began treatment on January 2, 2008 and for the next 6 weeks I was given Acupuncture treatments once a week. After 4 weeks I was able to decrease my pain medication regiment by half and then by the end of 6 weeks I was off the Methadone completely and only take an occasional Motrin. I am currently taking my Acupuncture treatments once every 4 to 5 weeks and am actually doing so much better. I thank Steve after every treatment and would recommend him to anyone. He has been great with communicating and has made me feel like a person and not just another number. I can't praise the treatment or the man enough. After being a pain medication addict for 18 months of my life, I can honestly say that I feel Human and functional again. Thanks Steve for all you do.
I have been using alternative medicine for at least thirty years, and am very familiar with the many different methods. At different times during the last several years, I have seen Steve for digestive problems, neck pain, breathing problems, and stress. The results for all of those conditions have been outstanding. The soreness in my neck kept me awake at night and was almost unbearable. After one acupuncture treatment, not only was my neck pain completely gone, but as a side benefit of that particular treatment, I was in a state of complete bliss! The difference was truly dramatic. My breathing problems (shortness of breath from a hiatal hernia) were relieved after several treatments. I am thankful to have found his office, and would consider him to be my first option for treatment. As an alternative practitioner, Steve is the best. I would highly recommend him to anyone considering acupuncture or herbal medicine, for his peaceful manner, his professionalism, and his consistent results.
Peace and prosperity,
Judy
After a year of life-altering neck pain and migraines caused by herniated discs, which was never helped by months of physical therapy or anti-inflammatories, I felt desperate. My family was planning a week long vacation (to Disneyland) over Thanksgiving week and I couldn't bear the thought of being in pain the entire time. So I researched the internet until I found Steve Phillips and gave him a call. He was able to get me in within a few days. By the time I went for the first time, I had no motion and constant pain, not to mention I came down with the head cold of a lifetime. When I arrived for my first appointment I was a mess. Steve treated my neck as well as offered to clear up my head. I was very skeptical about acupuncture but figured I had nothing to lose. Within minutes on the ride home, I had full motion of my neck and no pain! And my sinuses cleared. It was amazing. I had a couple more treatments before leaving for vacation and I was amazed that I had absolutely no pain during the entire trip. Not only that but I went on every single ride with my kids (including the Matterhorn) and never felt a twinge of pain or stiffness. Now I never have to take pain medicine and I have had a major reduction in the number of migraines I get. My neck pain is so much better and when it does get aggravated, the next treatment clears it again. It's amazing.
Victoria Micheels
Dear Steve:
I wanted to write to let you know how thoroughly surprised and happy I am with the results of the acupuncture treatments I received, and am still receiving, from you for my chronic back and neck pain. When I originally came to you it was as a last ditch effort to avoid a cervical pain management shot. I was in constant pain from various knots in my shoulder muscles and from four bulging disks in my upper spine. I was worrying out loud to a friend who shared with me his experiences with the treatments. I did not want to get the shot, which would have been the first of many, I feared, so I decided to at least look into acupuncture. And, am I ever glad I did. After the first four treatments my pain had greatly subsided, and I am now getting treatment two or three times a month, and pain is no longer a daily debilitating problem for me.
My husband is probably even happier than I am, because I am now back to being my normal self, and not in constant pain. We're back to having fun together and I am able to carry on with my life in normal fashion. I cannot convey to you how joyful it is to be able to wake each day and just go out and live, as opposed to being constantly wracked with painful and numbing jolts running down my arms and legs. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for the skill and knowledge you have applied to me and for the confidence you have given me in the art of acupuncture. If any of your patients have any concerns about the treatments you provide just tell them my story. It WILL help them!
Sincerely,
Rochelle B., age 50-55
Nine years ago, I endured a car accident that caused me a "whiplash" injury to the right side of my neck. At the time of the accident and for a several months following, I was in a significant amount of pain.
Although it seemed to gradually decrease with the use of ibuprofen and physical therapy. My physical therapist warned me that I would need to keep my body strong with exercise and stretches to prevent further injury or pain. However, what I failed to know at the time was that exercises and stretches wouldn't be enough. I carried a heavy backpack on one shoulder for many years during my college career. Bad idea!
This act alone increased my injury exponentially more than I anticipated. I always maintained a very healthy lifestyle, exercising and stretching as advised, yet my injury was worsening. About four years after my accident, I had reached the point where my neck and back would spasm out of control, causing excruciating pain to the point where some days I could not function with normal, daily tasks.
This began to happen more frequently, and I was having pain in places I hadn't before. The pain was radiating through the entire right side of my back, my neck, and my head. It was intolerable. I didn't know what to do anymore. Ibuprofen wasn't working, certain exercises seemed to aggravate the pain further, Yoga helped somewhat, but nothing was quite enough. By word of mouth, I heard about Steve Phillips' acupuncture practice. I had always wanted to try acupuncture but was afraid I couldn't afford it. Fortunately, I took the risk and attempted my first visit. Lo and behold, I was able to pay a reasonable cost that allowed me to receive my first treatment. The immediate relief I felt was invaluable. My pain ceased almost instantly, and I found the treatment to be incredibly peaceful and calming. Later, I realized that my back wasn't going into spasms anymore and I wasn't accumulating pain like before. I was absolutely thrilled! I finally found a treatment that is effective over a long term and doesn't require medication that potentially poisons my liver.
I continued going to treatments, a few times a month at first and now once a month for maintenance. A price tag cannot be placed on the relief I experience from acupuncture. I've even found that I look forward to my treatments and use the time to clear my mind, relax, meditate, de-stress, or even pray. By the time my treatment is over, I'm out of pain, relaxed, and my mind is clear. I am able to walk out of the clinic in confidence that I can live my life virtually pain free.
I highly recommend acupuncture to anyone seeking pain relief. I am certain you will find the relief you seek, because I most certainly have!
Janelle H. of Antelope, CA age 25-30
In March 2006 a head doctor of a specialty clinic of a HMO referred me to Steve Phillips for monthly acupuncture treatments. For some years, I've had deteriorating degenerative disc disease that causes pain and stiffness. Over a period of some 20 years I have had a condition called IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) that causes spasms and abdominal discomfort. Acupuncturist Steve Phillips' treatments have greatly reduced these two physical conditions so that I am able to participate in gym workouts, play the piano, and continue the routine of everyday living. I am greatly indebted to Steve Phillips for the benefits I have received from his monthly treatments, and recommend this highly skilled medical professional to all those in need of pain relief and/or discomfort in everyday life.
Swami H., age 65-70
In 2004 I began acupuncture treatments with Steve Phillips for muscle pains related to arthritis in my leg and hip. Very often I have limped into his office, and then walked out as if there had never had a problem. During those visits he would often treat a stiff neck as well as a sore thumb which was interfering with piano performances.
Sometimes he has combined treatments for carpal tunnel with a basic energy treatment which has never failed to improve my spirits. Presently, he is treating me for IBS symptoms and there has been much improvement in just three sessions. In addition, after a recent total hip replacement, he is treating my lower back (sacroiliac joint) and helping my knees to recover from misalignment pains which resulted from compensating for that worn out hip.
I am very grateful to Steve for taking away so much pain and diminishing the need for medication, and for doing so with good humor, a very caring heart, and much professionalism.
Many thanks, Steve…
Linda D., age 66
From Sonia R.
This is my testimonial to the treatment given by Steve Phillips, M.A., L.Ac. Maybe I should tell you my story. I was in an auto accident in 10/2006 and I had chiropractic care for 45 months, it helped for a while and so I saw a massage therapist and that helped for a while, but there were still symptoms that were not getting better, so I went to see a M.D. who took a few tests and found that I had a cervical disc herniation at C-6/C-7. Then I was treated with injections, yoga stretches and exercises with physical rehabilitation. I tried drugs given by my doctor: anti-inflammatory, steroid, melthylprednisone, fletanyl patches, methadone, 12 arvocet. The drugs helped very little and caused me more pain with different symptoms—severe vomiting and abdominal pain. So I have to say that after all of this I was getting very depressed. The feeling of hopelessness was very strong.
That's when I came to see Steve Phillips, M.A., L.Ac. He is my acupuncturist and so far my life saver! I am feeling very little pain and I am sleeping again, not crying during the day and night or while trying to do my job.
I have only seen him 4 times and its the best I felt since the accident. I pray that he will be able to make me better and not have to have any surgery. I guess time will tell. But if there is anyone out there in pain give acupuncture a try.
It's not been painful to me in fact after each time, I feel so relaxed, I can think better and do just about everything I used to be able to do again.
I am so very grateful to Steve Phillips for his healing work to my disabling pain. Not only was my body in a great deal of pain, but my mental state was being affected, and after the 2nd treatment I felt the difference in my well being. I have hope for my future again. I hope my story can help you find hope again too.
Grateful, Sonia R., age 45-50
In the 17+ years since I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I have spent tens of thousands of dollars on medical specialists, prescription medicines, herbal supplements, and therapies (e.g., biofeedback, hypnosis, massage, magnets, chiropractic treatments, Kinesiology)—with little or no results. My chronic pain, fatigue, and all the other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia continued to worsen. I was referred to Steve Phillips in 2000, after my third car accident in less than one year (hit by a tour bus!). In addition to the injuries sustained to my neck and low back from the accidents, the physical trauma made the fibromyalgia excruciating. After receiving acupuncture treatments from Steve for only a month, I noticed that my pain had lessened and stamina/energy increased. I was able to sit, walk, or stand, for two or more hours at a time and not be in agony. Previously, I could not sit, stand or do anything for more than 20 minutes without having to shift/constantly change position, take pain medications, stop the activity, or lie down.
Acupuncture is one of the few things I have found over all these years that gives me relief from my chronic pain and exhaustion and affords me a more normal life. It's not just the acupuncture, but Steve has a calming, compassionate, and positive demeanor that is therapeutic. His caring approach, years of expertise in this art, and extensive knowledge of herbs and natural curatives make him a true healer. I have referred Steve to numerous friends and family members who have also had amazing results.
Carol K.
There are two people in my life that are extremely important to me. I often tell my nine doctors that I will give them all up before I give up my Acupuncturist, Steve Phillips, and my Bowen Therapist, Christine Jones. I have been seeing Steve for about three years and Christine for over ten years. I had open heart surgery last July 12th, 2006 and was able to endure the post-operative chest pain because of Steve's expert care. I have had over 19 surgeries in my life span of 66. Being a high maintenance client, I usually look like a pin cushion while Steve is working on all my dysfunctional body parts. Acupuncture has significantly improved my sciatic pain and neck pain. I come out of treatment feeling like a new person and have a big smile on my face. I have recommended Steve to anyone who tells me about their aches and pains. I am so relaxed that I even fall asleep during treatment. Trust me, if your fear of needles has kept you from seeking treatment, don't hesitate another day and call Steve. Be kind to yourself. Steve will help you with all your insurance questions and get you on the road to feeling better.
I have been on dialysis for three years waiting for a kidney transplant. I have dialysis three times per week. After two months of acupuncture the length of my dialysis sessions were reduced from three hours to two. Also, my KT/V has gone way up, which means my kidneys are doing a better job of cleaning my blood of toxins. My memory has also improved. My faith has kept me strong and Steve Phillips has enabled me to look at each day as a blessing. My husband, Jim, recently became a patient of Steve's for his serious neck problems and has obtained significant relief from pain. In the July-August issue of ARTHRITIS TODAY the article says that acupuncture "helps regulate the nervous system which can stimulate the release of the body's natural pain-fighting endorphins." Being treated by Steve on a regular basis has enabled me to stay positive and endure whatever life throws my way.
Sandi K.
After a fall, I had experienced fairly constant neck, shoulder and back pain even after physical therapy. The pain specialist recommended acupuncture. I did not expect much relief and was not looking forward to the needles. However, to my surprise, the needles do not hurt and after a few sessions, I realized that the pain has been reduced dramatically in frequency and intensity. I recommend you keep an open mind and give it a try.
Donna G. from Sacramento, CA
My name is Eric. I injured my back in a work related injury in 1989. From 1989 to 2004, I was in continuous back and neck pain. I tried physical therapy, medications, chiropractic treatment, but nothing seemed to work. In 2004 I heard about Steve Phillips Acupuncture Clinic and decided to give it a try. After the first treatment I felt instant relief. I could not believe that after two more more treatments, I did not experience any more pain in my back and neck for over a year. In my time off work, I help coach high school baseball. I've been so impressed with Steve Phillips' Acupuncture Clinic, I have recommended several athletes and their parents, as well as co-workers. Not one of my recommendations have come back with negative results. I would recommend Steve Phillips to any one who has physical ailments.
Eric C.
Hi Steve
Thank you for improving the quality of my life. I have a bulging disc, and without acupuncture, I would be unable to work—or play! The improvement in my neck is miraculous. I was skeptical at first but no longer. You provide a valuable tool for health and well being. Thank you again.
Charlotte S.
Steve Phillips is knowledgeable and adept at his practice of acupuncture. I can personally recommend his skill based on my personal experience.
I had suffered a neck injury at work and had all of the clinical signs of cervical disc impingement (pain, decreased muscle strength and loss of range of motion). After just one acupuncture session with Steve, all of these symptoms improved. I never had to take narcotic painkillers.
Steve also helped me with the nausea associated with early pregnancy. After just one session I had regained my appetite. After a few sessions, the nausea almost disappeared.
R. Arora, D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy)
I had been going to a chiropractor for a year and a half with out any results when it was suggested to me to try acupuncture from a co-worker. She recommended Steve Phillips. With the first visit my neck issue was 80%. I went to two more visits and my neck issue was 100%. That was 5 years ago and haven't had a problem with my neck. I continued to see Steve for other reasons and I have had the same results.
Vickie M.
I began acupuncture treatment after a minor vehicle crash which caused me neck, shoulder and lower back pain. Physical therapy did not work and seemed to cause me more pain. After a couple of sessions at The Acupuncture Clinic, I began to feel relief. I was sleeping through the night, taking less medication and rating my pain lower and less frequently. I am almost done with my acupuncture sessions and feel wonderful. Steve Phillips from the clinic provides a gentle, relaxing but effective treatment. I have never had acupuncture treatments before but can honestly say that it has helped me with my pain so that I can sleep comfortably and lead a normal life.
Laura G., Elk Grove
My Mom, in her 80's, had seen Steve Phillips for her back pain and found acupuncture was quite helpful. Since I'd had such trouble with neck pain and couldn't seem to find any permanent relief I was desperate. My Neurologist had told me not to do any painting, but being stubborn and since it needed to be done, I had painted the ceiling in the bathroom! Since my Parkinson's diagnosis, complicated by Dystonia over 5 years ago, I was determined not to let my disease take over my life. As a result, I have been fortunate in working with my medical "team" to employ a whole body wellness approach and I believe my overall health has been improved greatly. When I began having so much neck pain, my neurologist had suggested I try acupuncture. I told him I knew a good acupuncture doctor and called for an appointment. Since I began seeing Steve in October 2007 I have also noticed my tremor has lessoned too. Of course, I'm still on medication (which I'm working on reducing); I see my neurologists regularly and my chiropractor, and try to have a massage every now and then. But I look forward to my acupuncture every 3 weeks and find that if I have a particular area that I feel needs work, all I have to do is mention it and relief is on it's way. I've told many of my friends about acupuncture and recommend it for anyone, especially if you have any kind of stress in your life. Stress just makes any disease or condition worse, so try acupuncture—you'll be glad you did.
Dorothy W.