Reviews of Twin Cities Spine Center (Doctor)

Jo Schermann

Dr. Pinto did my spinal Fusion on February 7th 2018, I’m happy to say that I have NO PAIN and will be forever grateful for him and his team!

Jack Czyson

Twin Cities Spine Center is very knowledgeable, helpful and professional. I highly recommend them!!!

Doug Tipler

Dr Shafa is an absolutely amazing surgeon! Received a 3 level lumbar fusion which included 2 artificial discs or “ spacers” and totally cured years of lumbar spine issues and pain. He is incredible and recommend him highly!!!!

Sally Suby

My name is David Suby and I had ACDF surgery on July 31, 2018 performed by Dr Alcala. I would like to say that from the first moment of seeing his team to my last checkup a year later was an extremely professional experience. Because of a worrisome and progressive prognosis he was able to fast track my surgery. From my MRI to the surgery was only a few weeks and therefore I was quicker to recover. My experience at United Health in St Paul was the most efficient of any hospital I have been to, friendly staff and always professional. I have to say that Dr. Alcalca’s empathy and smile will be something I will always remember. The surgery and recovery went exactly as planned. My neck is in better shape than it has been in years so I would like to thank him for that. I would recommend the TCSC to anyone needing this procedure.

Patti Andrist

Very friendly staff that is willing to help. They did exceptionable work on my surgery that I am so grateful. Dr. Joseph Perra is a wonderful and kind Doctor along with his staff. I would recommend him and the Spine Clinic to anyone.

Patt Knudsen

On my first visit I’m glad to say the Dr E Beauchamp was able to find what my back pain was caused by.I have been working with several doctors in Duluth for five years not one was able to help me. I hope in the future he will be able to take care of the problem, with no complications .

kelly schmid

I've had 3 surgeries thru them and now on my 4th. Dr. Mehr of is excellent doctor and his staff is fantastic.

Tish Vanhoorik

I had a 2 level anterior cervical disc fusion and discectomy, done 4 months ago by Dr. Alcala. I am so happy with the results. I have been pain free since the morning after surgery. From the first consultation to present, my treatment plan has been clearly outlined and I have been very impressed with how smooth the whole process has gone. I have always received quick responses with My Chart messages and never have a problem with convenient appointments. I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Alcala--very knowledgeable, professional and personable, explains things in a way that are easy to comprehend without sounding condescending. Best experience ever!

Yvonne Hess

I had spine surgery on May 16,2019 at Abbott Northwestern .First of all my nursing team was absolutely fantastic.My surgeon was Dr.Shafa and he did a great job.He has a wonderful demeanor not talking down too you.I was out of the hospital the next day painfree and walking.Some of it was a little painful like turning over at night and getting out of bed but I never needed anything stronger than Tylenol.I went through all the options before too nothing helped and I was in constant pain I didn't want surgery but I am glad I did.I would highly recommend Dr.Shafa.

Gerald Juels

I am pleased with Dr. James Schwender’s spine fusion surgery but disappointed by his lack of consideration for his patients' need to have their insurance and employer-required forms filled in to pay for it and provide updates.

Leonard Gillen

Dr. Beauchamp is a pleasant surgeon who certainly knows his subject matter. What I appreciate most is his candor. Pleased we agreed PT should be started before any surgical procedure. Very comfortable in the care of this Dr.

Diane Ruiz

Dr.Mullaney your the BEST!!!! THANK-YOU for the awesome care. My back is still pain free for over 12 years. It was nice to see you again, take care. Diane

Roxann Avid

Dr. Shafa was fantastic, very kind very patient at had a grueling surgery and he fixed the problem. I can't go through metal detectors without setting them off but that's okay.

Joy Fruen

With herniated discs, bone on bone slippage and a cyst in the spinal nerves, there were times when I could hardly move. I didn't know what the problem was until after a couple rounds of physical therapy provided no relief and went to Twin Cities Spine Center. Dr. Shafa explained exactly what should be done, showing me on my MRI. He removed the cyst and fused L3 thru L5. He was very professional and cordial. I was home pain-free in 2 days and back to work in 2 weeks. The least favorite thing is the back brace for awhile but well worth the stability while healing. I recommend Dr. Shafa and Twin Cities Spine Center for anyone with back pain. May 2018

Kelly Mruz

Dr.Shafa is great surgeon.He always listen to the patient concerns and willing to find the answer to the patient problem that is going on. He is compassionate, caring and kind. Dr.Shafa has great bedside manner when comes to talking with the patient He was easy to talk to and made me feel like my problem wasn’t just in my head. I’m happy I choose twin cities spine center to help me with my cervical neck issues. Dr.Shafa did my artificial disc replacement and was a fantastic choice of the disc product and surgery. I’m happy my scar is barely noticeable. Thank You Dr.Shafa and Twin Cities Spine, I will always tell other people/patients/customers about your great service. Sincerely, Kelly

Bruce Ferriss

I had spinal fusion in July of 2015 at Twin Cities Spine. L4 through S1 were fused by Dr. Kevin Mullaney. He had been recommended by my primary care physician in Chaska. I had worked as a Flight Attendant for 40 years at the time. It got to the point where I was unable to perform my job, and frankly thought my career was ending, and my quality of life would be forever diminished. I had tried physical therapy, spinal injections, yoga...anything to stop the pain of sciatica and pinched nerves due to my vertebrae collapsing in my lower back. Dr. Mullaney was always up front with me, not willing to go the fusion route until I agreed that it was time. It was time. It was very painful that first month, and narcotics barely touched the pain. I stopped the narcotics before a month was up, and simply started walking, walking, and walking more and more. Of course I had a brace for 90 days, but in time my back got better and better. I was back at work as a flight attendant in six and a half months, a job that involves a lot of bending, lifting, and twisting. Dr. Mullaney gave me my life back. It was the best medical decision I've ever made. I'm not saying it was a "fun recovery," but it worked. Beautifully. At age 70, I'm still plying the sky, back at work, and enjoying my life to the fullest. I would go to no other surgeon for this procedure.

Leeha Alison

10 years ago at age 16 I had my first L4/L5 decompression surgery. About 6 months ago my prior symptoms came back but 10x worse. I had complete numbness on the surface of my right leg as well as constant nerve pain radiating from my hip down. I began losing all hope and thought that maybe this will have to be my “new” normal. Not only was this my 2nd surgery at 26 but I tried PT, injections, meds...etc and nothing helped. Today, 2 weeks post surgery and I’m feeling pretty good! My nerve pain has essentially been gone since I woke up from surgery and although I do have some numbness I can feel it getting better daily. I want to thank everyone at TCS from the bottom of my heart for making me feel so comfortable from the time I was admitted, wheeled into the OR, waking up in the recovery room, and monitored throughout the night/following day. You changed my life forever.

Rich Huth

Dr. Garvey and his staff are amazing!! I would highly recommend twin cities spine center to anyone with spine related issues.

Erica Johnson

Very excellent place to receive care,I had a posterior/anterior spinal fusion June of 2018, couldn't ask for it too go any smoother. The recovery was fast and I felt 110% better after I was healed,I am now 30 weeks pregnant and I've experienced a great amount of pain from the pulling and strain on my lower back due to my growing baby.Would recommend waiting at least two full years after fusion if you want to have any children just with my experience it's been a tough pregnancy.I will see the Doc 3-6 months after we have our baby just too make sure everything is still in place and no adjustments are needed.They are a great place to receive care and great people to get advice from.Will countiune care after pregnancy!!!!!

Kiska Kelder

Been following Dr. Garvey for many years. He is the only Doctor I trust to operate on my back. His expertise is comforting and I rest easy knowing that I’m in the best hands possible!!

Lester Cleveland

I would be crippled or worse with out there help and support

qwest 4one

Dr Mullaney is the best.

Daria Rabec

Dr Garvey and Chad are great! I had surgery just over a year ago and even as a nurse, I can say there is no other medical staff that is as helpful and easy to reach!

Kenneth Jensen Jr.

Very considerate staff an a good Doctor. Explained everything to me in layman's terms. Short wait time also.

James D

Didn’t feel they really listen to what and how much pain I’m in. Like a lot of doctors I don’t think they take the time to listen and help.

beryl sjostrand

Dr pinto is amazing the best there is

Betsy Anderson

My experience with Dr Garvey and TCSC was nothing but positive. I am 3 months post lumbar fusion surgery and pretty much pain free. I was given all the information needed to make my own decision about having surgery - it was offered as an option and not "pushed" on me. Dr. Garvey and his staff were outstanding throughout the process. They were always available to answer questions I had and were friendly and professional. I'm very happy with my decision to put myself in their care. This surgery is not to be taken lightly - it comes with a very intense recovery - but my outcome has been great.

Deborah Sereno

I had my first spinal back in 1971 by Dr. Moe, then in 2012 by Dr. Dennis. GREAT DOCTORS! I have been able to do whatever I’ve wanted all these years. Just saw Dr Mike Eckroth, which gave great care and time to explain exactly what is wrong, and explain my options. This is the only place I will come for my back problems!

Matthew Hessburg

This is a medical team that is a model of great service. I met with a nurse, a PA, and a surgeon. They all willingly gave me as much time as I needed to feel comfortable about my future surgery. I never got the feeling that any of them were anxious to move on; a feeling I have frequently experienced before. I can’t imagine anyone wants to find themselves in a doctors office, but when you do have to go this is the way you want to be treated.

Rita Rabe

I have had two back surgeries done by Dr. Garvey. I wouldn't go anywhere else. The staff is wonderful and Dr. Garvey is the best.

Elycia Henry

Warning! Long review! have had excellent care since day 1 with Dr Pinto and Terry P. I should have listened to Dr. Pinto’s recommendation for a fusion the first time around in 2017. A fusion was honestly very scary so I saw another physician a month later who did a discectomy. I ended up having 2 back to back failed discectomies in an attempt to avoid a fusion. As Dr. Pinto said a bad disc is just a bad disc and it will continue to degenerate and fail. In debilitating pain from an extremely large disc fragment sitting my sciatic nerve, (3rd time around is NOT a charm) my family insisted that I have 3 opinions as to what type of fusion was needed. I had already decided to have to the 360 fusion with Dr. Pinto while humoring my family with the other opinions-which were for PLIF and TLIF. My family was soooo impressed with the care and concern from Terry at the appointment to discuss the next steps for a fusion. I felt so secure with his bedside manner and that he didn’t rush through the appointment. He followed up with Dr. Pinto and set up some additional testing right away and had us back in to see Dr. Pinto and himself a week later. Dr. Pinto was just as thoughtful and kind as Terry at this appointment and DID NOT berate me for bad decision for going for the discectomies instead of the recommended fusion. I think I had done that to myself enough and he knew that! He picked up where we left off and also was very kind and patient. I had to wait awhile for my insurance to preapprove the surgery and went to the other doctors as I said to humor my family! It was good though since I was able to compare procedures that were recommended by them. I already knew that the 360 fusion was the gold standard and this was just confirmation that Dr. Pinto was the absolute right choice. Almost 1 year after the initial visit with Dr. Pinto I had L-5 S-1 350 fusion which was a success. Had a few bumps with needing some steroid injections to calm down the sciatic nerve but he was willing to do what I needed for after care to get me through the healing process. I’ll also mention that I have an autoimmune condition and he was very thoughtful of what I would need to heal. He listened to my rheumatologist’s recommendations and the process went well. I know this is a very long review BUT I also know how important it is to have a doctor you can trust and does what’s best for you.

Steve Schoonmaker

I can't rate their concern & care high enough. Dr. Monsoon was very helpful & PA Mike Eckroth went above and beyond any expectations I had in helping me through my back issues. 5+ stars. I wish all healthcare providers were this caring & proficient. I'm on the road to recovery. Many thanks!

Toy Studios

I felt very ignored and that my situation was not taken seriously. I was basically told my back was fine, not normal, but ok. I had scoliosis surgery many years ago and the pain has not been helped by anything I've tried. I hadn't heard anything for a week after I got my MRI results, so had assumed they had gotten them too. Apparently they sent me a letter explaining? Still haven't gotten that. Finally got a call after many attempts to contact them. I felt like I put them out as a patient. I read my MRI results and have a lot of medical background, and after what I was told from what I read myself I will be getting a second opinion. Very unhappy that as a patient from years ago, that I feel "blown off."

walter owen

Outstanding Dr Petra and staff , c2 70 years old great results and recovery could not have had better highly recommend checked out many before being fortunate to find him he is not a mistake highly recommend

rich camp

Mike and the entire team of Dr’s and staff have done a wonderful job of repairing my back including fusion surgery and the ongoing follow up. Highly recommend this group!

jo Rushman

I had been in an auto accident and a year later was still feeling pain so I made an appointment at the spinal clinic in Cambridge Mn. This is where I found out I have degenerative Disc disease. Mike Eckroth PC-A explained everything very well and what the options are. He was pleasant, helpful and listened to what I had to say. I like the way they show you the ct scans, MRI and X-rays and explain everything completely. I would highly recommend him and this clinic. BUT the receptionist was a different story. She was rude, not helpful and seemed to be disorganized.She was argumentative about the doctor supplying me with a letter for my attorney about this visit.

Diane McGowan

Dr. Garvey did my spinal fusion and it has been a great success. I could not have tolerated the horrible pain I was in before the surgery. It was a long recovery but the outcome has been fabulous.

Louie Moller

Very good feed back about my issues and felt very comfortable with all concerns for my well being

Shirley Mitchell

I've only been to this clinic a few times. I'm always warmly welcomed. Dr. Muller is a fine doctor. He really listens to you. He works with you to have a plan of action for what care is best for you. Thank you

Joseph Gendler

The doctors and staff are wonderful and skilled, however, their prescription refill line DOES NOT work. My young daughter had surgery and they never got back to me or the pharmacy (I gave over 48 hours notice) once her prescriptions ran out. Needed to take her to the emergency room per the advice of an on call doctor who refused any help. NOT HAPPY!

Lucy Standish

I already left a review but don’t think they keep the bad reviews in. That’s why their average is so high!!!!

Kristine Starkman

Cate Pandiscio was sooooooo wonderful to meet with. Cordial, approachable and so knowledgeable! I feel like she immediately understood my symptoms, my desire to avoid surgery if possible and helped me put together a short and long term plan that works for my lifestyle and prognosis. Thank you! I wish ALL providers were this effective at both listening and solutions! And her warm, pleasant personality was so nice. Please do everything you can to keep her!!! And if you have back pain- go see her!!

Lori Wheeler

I've been there twice now for a consultation on neck surgery. They have spent time to make sure I understand the problem and procedures.

David Johnson

Dr. Mullaney and staff at Twin Cities Spine are “best in class.” You will receive solid results from this no nonsense expert who cares deeply about patient results..

Bruce Zottnick

Dr. Pinto is a great doctor and person. His staff and him go above beyond for a patient. I would recommend Dr. Pinto and Twin City Spine Center to everyone.

Karen Barber

Thankful to have a great PA-C, Mike Eckroth at Twin Cities Spine. I appreciate your professionalism and how you thoroughly explained my imaging results. Always efficient and friendly. What a wonderful team of caring people at Twin Cities Spine!

Pahchie Vang

Completed an online form a month ago and didn't receive a call back or a voice message. Called to schedule an appointment, and the receptionist made it harder than it needed to be. Let me explain: I asked to see Dr. Pinto regarding back pain due to a car accident. I also informed her that I completed an online form but didn't receive a call. I was then told that someone had called me. I politely emphasized that I didn't receive a voicemail. She obviously didn't believe me so she decided to reply with a snotty tone, "well it shows that they called you". I'm not one to pick up on a number I don't recognize or remember. It should be common sense for a receptionist (and standard business policy) to leave a voicemail and to attempt to contact a second, at the least. To top it off, she was rude, displeasing, and had a nasty tone of voice. Don't get me wrong, I'm not out to get anyone. In actuality, I'm a very patient person. I was on the phone with this person for 10 minutes. Future patients don't call because they want to, it's because they NEED to. One less patient; One less business; One less profit.

Dean Discher

Josh is professional, knowledgeable, and kind!

cindy creegan

Had lumbar fusion done from L-2-S-1 , Dr. Pinto was/ is my spine surgeon. He is excellent at his practice. Fusion was done in 2006 removed hardware in 2009 no brace no pt and I still have full rotation in my waist and hips and back. Now working on the thorasic Spine

Lisa

I’ve been under the care of Dr. Mehbod and Mike Eckroth since January. I have found everyone on the team to be amazing, thorough, and prompt, both in clinic and over the phone. Surgery went very well, I knew what to expect, and I always know and am part of creating my plan of care. I completely trust them, and highly recommend them.

Lisa Palmquist

I see Dr. Meybod at Twin City Spine. He and the staff are very helpful and make sure your questions are answered and you understand what is going on. If you have neck or back issues, I recommend you make an appointment with Twin City Spine.

Michael Moen

Was very impressed with Brandon. Reviewed and explained all the MRI results clearly. Than came up with options. Then we came up with a plan.

Tiia Maide

I came to twin cities spine center for a 2nd opinion after abnormal ct scan report. I had a 3 level spinal fusion completed in January with another location. During the hospital stay my L3 was fractured. During the following 7 months I improved only slightly and my original surgeon's office continued to say everything was fine until finally at my 6 month check up they ordered a ct scan due to I was still unable to walk unassisted. After receiving the report I immediately started asking questions as it showed the break never healed and actually got worse causing the L2-L3 to be pushed out of place. I called Twin Cities Spine right away and they were able to get me into see Terry (Dr. Pinto's PA) at the end of August. The receptionist was great and the check in process went quicky. I was called into the exam room on time and the nurse explained I had one person ahead me and then Terry would be right in to see me. Terry came in listened to my story and brought up all my images from 2/1 through 7/24. He told me what he was seeing and confirmed surgery was required to repair the damage. He then brought Dr. Pinto into the consult to explain the surgical approach. I was emotionally upset they were so kind and compassionate. Before I left the process of getting the surgery approved was explained and all the cards of people I may need to contact were provided. The approach they are taking is the most minimal invasive that is possible. The original surgeon wanted to redo the first 3 level surgery and then fuse me all the way up to my rib cage. I would highly recommend Terry and Dr. Pinto.

Cindy Lawson

Professional and caring staff.

Sherri Murphy

Dr. Pinto did my surgery 4 years ago and for the first time in many years I was pain free. The reason I’m looking on here today is a fell super hard on my back and I’m going to see him again

P Rosen

Dr. Mehbod’s expertise and compassion are a great combination to treat an ailing spine. A referral by a medical professional brought me to his office, and a subsequent spinal fusion followed thereafter. I have the utmost confidence in his abilities, and would not hesitate to recommend him to those in need of his specialty.

Rebekah Broughen

Dr. Pinto and his team are the absolute best! They are attentive and caring. I highly recommend him.

Jim Black

Took the time and had the compassion to listen to my concern. Showed me in detail MRI scan and explained what the pictures showed. You are blessed to have her part of your staff.

DeAnne Miller

I was seen at the Vadnias Heights location. Dr Mueller and staff provided a great experience. Everyone was polite and kind. This location is extremely clean and well kept. Will definitely continue to be seen here!