Dr. Valone replaced my c7 disc in a procedure I am telling everyone was close to miraculous! All the pain and discomfort shooting down my arm due tp nerve impingement IMMEDIATELY AND COMPLETELY DISAPPEARED. His review and recommendation, based on MRI and physical review, was clear and concise. Setting up and preparing for the procedure was super easy and amazingly fast. I recommend Dr. Valone without hesitation and with great enthusiasm. read more

Dr Valone is kind and patient, and an excellent surgeon. He listened carefully to my questions and answered them thoughtfully. Surgeons are sometimes thought of as not having a good bedside manner. Not true with Dr Valone. He's got your back. His team is also very helpful. Knowing I'll have future needs for a spine expert, I'm comforted knowing Dr. Valone will be there. read more

Dr. Valone and his team are top-notch. I thought I was destined for a life of pain, but Dr. Valone took care of that. I'm now living pain-free, thanks to him and his team of professionals. However, it's not just Dr. Valone; the nurses who cared for me after surgery were absolute angels. They were kind, attentive, and very friendly, making me feel assured and safe during my time with them. BRAVO to CPO! Gonzalo read more

From start to finish, I received the best care imaginal. Strength and sensation immediately returned to my leg immediately after low back micro decompression. I have mild residual symptoms that are expected to fade as my nerve is given more time to recuperate. The front office, billers and surgery center staff are great people. Many thanks to Dr. Valone and James (PA) who are giving me back the important pieces in my life that were lost. I'm happy that many other patients will receive the chance and benefit. read more

I started having hip pain in February - an orthopedic specialist who I respect referred me to the UCSF Spine Clinic. From March - July, I only interacted with the physician's assistant - this included a diagnosis of cysts in my spine and recommendation to first aspirate the cysts in May. By the time I actually met Doctor #1 for the first time in July - he threw out the possibility of multiple surgeries but nothing seemed definitive or like he had a solid recommendation for what a good solution would be for me. Even when I asked Doctor #1 how to proceed - he said "of course it's your right to get a second opinion" and Dr Valone was one of the several names he mumbled but never wrote down. I talked with my PCP who referred me to Dr Valone's office as well - and they called me the next day! Not only that -- they got me in the office the same week. Dr Valone is very easy to talk with - he's present, knowledgeable, shares information in an organized way, and he has a sense of humor. His office even connected me with a patient who had recently had the same surgery (albeit - she was 20+ years older than I and had waited 5-6 years before pursuing surgery). When I asked about support for an ADA request for remote work with my employer -- Dr Valone said "Of course, we're here to support you and your recovery." Dr Valone gave me confidence and information - with a side of humor. The first thing I remember after surgery was seeing him with a clip board, and he approached and said with a straight face, "After surgery you may notice you are 1 MM taller." Folks, the first two weeks of recover are NO joke. I am happy with the care I had at the Cal Pacific Medical Center campus on Van Ness. Dr Valone and his PA James were very responsive before surgery and after my return home to all my concerns and questions. Never in my life did I imagine I would be a candidate for back surgery - and I'm glad that I ended up choosing Dr Valone and his team (and grateful for having health insurance to cover it!). read more

Dr Valone and his team are an excellent group who care for their patients and are extremely attentive after surgery.... as well as before. They were more detailed than any other practice I visited. read more

I am so grateful to Dr. Valone and his team for giving me my life back. After 6 months of pain / numbness on my lower left leg, but Dr. Valone took the time to explain every detail of the procedure. He is absolutely phenomenal. His expertise is unmatched, and I was up and walking, able to return to work in 6 weeks. The office staff was also incredibly supportive throughout my rehab. I highly recommend him to anyone needing orthopedic care! read more

After 2 years of PT where my lower back pain did not resolve itself and many hours reviewing doctors, procedures and clinics, I consulted Dr Valone and his PA James Aicardi. Both were exceptional in providing an accurate diagnosis, a minimally invasive surgical recommendation (L4-L5 Lateral Interbody Fusion and Posterior Spinal Fusion) and a confidence inspiring discussion of options, the procedure, risks and benefits. California Pacific's in-house imaging equipment allowed a speedy diagnosis and continuing post-op checks. And I can't say enough how wonderful the nursing staff and doctors at Novato Community Hospital were. 3 hours after surgery I was walking and discharged after 24. After 5 days I was taking only an occasional acetaminophen for pain relief. No more using the grocery shopping cart as a 'walker'. Thank you Dr Valone and the staff at California Pacific Orthopedics! read more

Dr. Valone is the best of the best and I say this after seeing quite a few other doctors. He listens and always displays a calm reason when in discussion. He weighs all decisions and never jumps into operation without trying other means first, such as epidurals. One will never feel uncomfortable in the office and most of all, he is very intelligent regarding what he does. During recovery, his PAs are always available with whom to speak regarding problems and will contact the patient to see if all is going well. I highly recommend him for any problem with orthopedics. read more

I received outstanding care from beginning in the office with all the medical team, especially from physician's assistant, James, who was there every step of the way. Dr. Frank Vallone is an extraordinary surgeon who performs outstanding procedures & saved my back & spine. I was so fortunate to have him & his team work their magic on me. Thank you! read more

I had seen Dr. Valone two years ago having trouble with my back. It was then recommended physical therapy. Since two years had passed I started having severe pain and immediately called his office. Let him know I had been in the ER . Within a week I was able to see him in person. "Said surgery was imminent. It's been three weeks since. I've never felt so good. I'm 71 years young, and feel like the person everyone knows me for. Thank you Dr. Valone and JP his staff for making me feel like a new man. He's the best. read more

Before I met Dr Valone, I had been suffering from severe sciatica for many many months, During that time another physican prescribed physical therapy, massage therapy, and I had an epidural. Nothing helped. I describe the intensity of that pain as often being an 8 or 9. It was then that I was referrred to Dr. Valone. My surgery was "out patient" and the result have been absolutely wonderful. I was told that it might take many months to notice a difference/relief from pain. Not so. I couldn't be happier with the results of this procedure. BRAVO Dr Valone & his incredible staff. read more

I am a pretty tall person and have had back issues for much of my adult life. I had two micro discectomies some time ago - one in 2012, one in 2015 to take care of a severely herniated L5/S1. My L4/L5 was also herniated, but not as bad as the L5/S1. The second surgery seemed to do the trick and I resumed feeling human again. Several years ago, I started experiencing back pain again - this time in my left glute (the previous pain presented on the right side). Reluctant to have a third surgery, I went to Dr. Valone's team and tried conservative treatments - meds for flare ups and PT. It helped a bit, but, over the course of a couple years, the pain became constant. I even did an epidural in January, which only provided partial relief. So, I got an MRI and did a consult with Dr. Valone. He recommended surgery based on my age and health. As luck would have it, they had availability the very next day! So, I took the plunge and am now three weeks post-op and pain-free! Dr. Valone does 300-400 of these procedures a year, so he knows what he's doing. They fished a fair amount of disc out of me - it was from the L4/L5 and was compressing my nerves. The entire staff was fantastic to deal with - James the PA was great over the course of the conservative treatment and checked-in twice the week following the surgery. Dr. Valone himself explained the procedure and answered all my questions. I start PT in three weeks and couldn't be happier about it! read more

After suffering sciatica pain for 7 years, I decided to do something about it. The pain was so bad that it hurt to walk 100 steps, lay on my back, and experiencing nuropathy and numbness up and down my leg continuously. Upon recommendation from a family member, I contacted Dr. Valone's office in October. After one meeting, he suggested removal of my herniated disc that was pushing on the nerve. Had surgery on 11/19 in and out the same day. From the next day and now 3 months out I have never experienced any pain working out 4 days per week and continuing with physical therapy. Dr. Valone is a miracle worker. I have never felt better. Everyone that I encounter that knows me, tells me that I look different. There is no pain and it showed on my face. Yikes. I cannot thank him enough for helping me get my life back. read more

Pre-surgery I was treated very well. As far as I know all went well during surgery, no one stopped in for a visit or a progress report. I went into surgery at 10:30am and was not placed into my bed until 8 PM. No explanation was given when I asked why it took so long to get into my room. The Nurse that took care of me until my discharge was wonderful, assisting me very quickly when I rang the bell. Post surgery I only saw Dr Valone once on my first check up a month later, he said my xrays looked great but he did not give much information about do's and don't after surgery. All other visits I say the PA whose only suggestions to me were to do more stretching. I would say it was not great follow up. I did not even get PT referral as all their recommendations were in San Rafael, an hour from my home...I'm mostly happy with my back, though I still have some discomfort after bending over or walking distance, at least the sciatica pain is gone. I have passed my one year anniversary after surgery and no one has contacted me for progress report. Would I recommend this doctor option for surgery, I'm still on the fence... read more

I recently had a back surgery and Dr. Frank Valon and he is stuff were great. I'm so happy to met everybody and also met my expectations. I highly recommend them for future reference and services. read more

I have much gratitude @ the beginning of 2025. Had spinal fusion surgery in June 2024. This was after experiencing pain, numbness, & tingling in lower extremities for a prolonged period of time. Dr Valone quickly provided a diagnosis and recommended surgery. The surgery was truly a miracle and restored me to my previous level of an active lifestyle. He and James Aicardi PA are an impressive team. Amazingly skillful, supportive and professional. The staff @ CPMC were kind and professional providing postoperative care for a one night stay in Ambulatory Care. Happy New Year! read more

Dr. Valone and his team were amazing!! My need for spine surgery was complicated by the fact that I had knee surgery also this year (meniscectomy). Was healing pretty well but then things started to go south. The first thing I experienced was muscle pain/contraction in my calf on the contralateral side of the knee surgery. Symptoms kept progressing up and down my leg and I was thinking something really went wrong. But after beginning to feel burning in my hamstring, I realized this was all nerve related. Was able to arrange for an MRI and Dr. Valone's team got me in for a consult almost immediately (and it is a hugely busy practice). From there, he recommended lumbar spine micro decompression surgery (3 weeks ago), I was scheduled in less than 2 weeks from the consult. Dr. Valone really takes the time to explain things, asks great questions to get to the bottom of my concerns...and his team is just fabulous! I feel bad: I sent a message via MyChart over the weekend... and James (the PA) was contacting me right back immediately... I was totally hoping he would see it Monday but I think they work 24/7 or something. Jina has been really helpful with helping me to organize my documentation for my medical leave and keeping me focused on making sure my journey to healing is safe and productive. 5 stars only because Yelp doesn't allow me to give more. read more

Dr. Frank Valone did an amazing job fixing my back. He and his team truly cares and were very efficient. I had lower back pain that shoots down to my leg. It was painful to walk, seat, stand and even laying down was uncomfortable. So grateful that Dr. Valone suggested surgery. He explained what was causing my pain, the procedures and what to expect from the surgery. He was confident, yet so compassionate. I'm on my 4th week post surgery now and am pretty much pain free, I'm walking without limping. I am very happy with the results, the treatment I received and the care I got pre and post surgery. I'm so thankful to Dr. Frank Valone and his team (special shout out to PA James Aicardi and med assistant Jina Park), everyone were so kind, competent, skillful and compassionate. I highly recommend Dr. Frank Valone to anyone needing spine surgery. read more

Life-changing surgery. This may seem repetitive, because I already left a Yelp review at CalOrthopedic where Dr. Frank Valone practices. Still, the review bears repeating valuable information for anyone torn about surgery. Take this review as just one person's experience, but at least another data point. I did not want to do surgery. I tried to PT my way out of this crazy disc bulge I had. Finally, after 6 months of pain, I relented. When I woke from surgery pain-free (besides the slight discomfort from the incision) I was a new person. There is a responsive and kind team supporting Dr. Frank Valone (Maggie and Connor, who also helped me with getting an ESI from Dr. Savala). I am extremely active, but three back incidents (each one piling on the other) eventually left me completely home-bound for 2 months. I tried everything to avoid surgery. If I had listened to Dr. Valone sooner about "surgery" I may have had those two months back. Anyway, my L5-S1 situation is in the past thanks the disc decompression surgery performed by the low-key power-house, Dr. Frank Valone. read more

Dr. Valone performed an ACDF procedure on my C5/C6. Everything went according to plan and I could not be happier about the recovery and the treaI received from Dr. Valone and his staff. They are total all-stars! read more

Dr. Valone and his medical staff were great. I had a back surgery called LIF. The process was clearly explained to me by Dr. Valone. His staff, especially James Aicardi, were always available to answer any of my concerns. Also, a shout out to Monet James who was able to change my original surgery date to one 3 weeks sooner at the Novato Community Hospital. On September 30th, I have my second post-op appointment with James and I hope to be cleared to start physical therapy. read more

I was in a terrible way before I met with Dr. Valone. I could no longer go for walks or hike, which I love to do due to horrible sciatic pain in my right leg. It would flare up after doing certain movements or activities. I finally had to stop working because the pain go so bad. After getting X-rays from the recommendation of my chiropractor, I discovered there was all sorts of spinal degeneration as well as spondylolisthesis at my L4 L5. I ended up going to Dr Valone at the urging of my brother who had a great result with him. After an MRI, I found out there was a synovial cyst that the Dr. said he could drain though he said it would likely come back because of the instabilty of the 2 vertabrae. I spoke with my brother's friend who had gone to Dr. V who raved about his results and couldn't say enough good stuff about him. I sought out 2 more opinions and decided to go ahead with the surgery. I am so glad I did. I was out of almost all sciatic pain right after the surgery and my friends were amazed how quickly I was recovering. I got off my walker by day 3, I was driving by week 2, I was hiking by week 3 and started working somewhat in week 4. I have my life back. It feels so good to be free of the pain and to have my body working again. I am writing this at close to 9 weeks. I know the full recovery is 6-9 months up to a full year. I highly recommend Dr. Valone and his staff--they are so caring and professional especially in the surgery center. There is still some numbness on my hip and thigh that is decreasing over time and the incisions are healed over. Don't waste your time in fear and indecision. Get the help you need and call Dr. V. You will thank yourself for the relief you can get. read more

I could not have been happier with my experience with Dr.Valone and his team, especially James Aicardi, his PA. He performed a Microdecompression to treat my severe L4-L5 disc herniation. From our first visit, he took my pain seriously, where other providers I had consulted with did not. I was so thankful he was able to get me in for surgery quickly. He and his team were clear with what to expect and post-operative instructions, and James made himself easily available if I had any questions or concerns. Truly was a five-star treatment. read more

Terrible. I would avoid him with a 10 foor pole! Even the person who supposedly gave me a spine injection for my pain, did NOT give me what I had previously had as a proper injection. After Valone had looked at my Xray he did NOT have the words to fullu explain what he saw. He said I should continue with the injectio which was not a true injection and have regular PT. He would not consider doing the Surgery. Before moving to Healdsburg, my Spine care was at Northwestern Spine Center in Chicago. Dr Sheng gave me the injection and had the screen right next to me on the table with me beside it. With Dr Valon'e team all I had were little pricks over my back with the screen he was directing at the far end of the room. We all have back spine issues. Mine was serious and as the injection with pricks did not do anything; and Valone was scared and not experienced enough, I arranged an appoint through Dr Sheng to see Dr Divi who worked in the smae office as Dr Patel at the Spine Center. Dr Divi wrote a definitive book about the Spine with Dr. Brian Su who is here in Larksper CA. and formed a Spine Center in Marin County. If I had known about him sooner I could have gone there. But I didn't. Backs gone wrong are no small dillema. Dr Divi ordered a CAT Scan. I had never had one before. Come to fine out my bones were too week to do a fusion. Not very many doctors are well-enough experienced to do management of the 2 pairs of lower vertebrae which had hooks each side upward cutting off blood flow which was causing such excruciating pain. I could hardly stand up. THe operation took place. Cutting back the hook ends of each bone and cleaning out the Nerve Section inside of each. One night in the hospital. two weeks staying with one of my daughters and a care giver to periodly come and check my progress. NO BLT No Bending No Lifting No Twisting. Progress at 6 weeks allowed me to fly back from Chicago, with wheel chair accomodation at each airport and first class plane seat to give mw room for the custom brace that I wore for many weeks to hold my spine straight. Also with exercises. I returned to Chicago for my 6 week followup with Dr Divi himself. The moment after he came in the room, it was clear how "ASTOUNDED he was at my progress!!!" So are the residents here where I live now. It is realistic to know my legs may feel some pain now and then. I still do some excercies and have some sessions of PT. Otherwise, I stand tall, squat to lower down and mind my p's and q's. It haS ONLY BEEN 8 Weeks !!!!!!! I hardly feel any pain; sleep well; walk upright; and feel eternally grateful for persevering to find a truly qualified Spine surgeon in Chicago. If there is any need at all for a local spine sugeon to check on me, I can ask Dr Divi to put in a referral to Dr Su. PS. Flew recently to WA state. No problem at all. Stopped wearing the brace many weeks ago. PIcture in Wheel chair below was on my way back to CA just after the 2 week review. read more

This review is long overdue. Eight years ago, Dr. Valone performed an ACDF (Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion) at my neck, C5-7. I am extremely satisfied with the result. After suffering from pain and numbness for ten years, I felt the improvement days after the surgery. I have been free from pain and numbness for eight years. The long-lasting result can only be attributed to Dr. Valone's skills and experience. Dr. Valone is also very professional and genuinely cares about his patients. I can't thank Dr. Valone enough for giving me a new life free from pain and numbness. read more

After a lumbar disc herniation with an impinged nerve and three months of extreme pain as well as loss of normal reflexes in my right foot I was informed surgery was indicated. Dr. Valone came highly recommended and I am forever grateful that I was referred to him. He is just the kind of doctor you can trust should you be faced with back surgery. It has been almost a year and I feel completely recovered with no complications. The whole experience went smoothly. His PA James and the medical assistants were always available every step of the way and were so helpful. I feel very fortunate to have been under the care of Dr. Valone and team. read more

Great experience working with Dr Valone and his team. Dr Valone quickly identified the cervical spine injuries that caused the pain and numbness for which I sought his support. He provided an expert opinion that was also easy to understand along with multiple options to resolve my injuries. Surgery went exactly as Dr Valone had described, and both he and his team were responsive and supportive of my aftercare needs. None of us "wants" surgery, but many of us require these procedures to address either chronic or acute pain and other issues. I recommend Dr Valone without reservation should you need similar treatment. 6 weeks after surgery, and I began physical therapy today with a clear roadmap to full recovery and return to my sports of choice! read more

From the first consultation the care and concern shown by Dr . Valone was on point and explained options thoroughly. Support staff in office was efficient and thorough. Assistant PA James AiCardi provided all the details for the stuff you may not have thought about. The hospital experience was excellent and as promised. I would highly recommend Dr. Valone. read more

After getting my MRI showing severe spinal stenosis, I called California Pacific Orthopedics. They quickly scheduled an appointment with Dr. Frank Vallone who reviewed the MRI with me and my wife. He explained the condition and recommended Lateral Interbody Fusion (LIF), a minimally invasive procedure with a 6-week recovery period. They even moved up my surgery date to reflect the level of pain I was in. The surgery went smoothly and professionally. James Aicardi, the Physical Assistant was a key part of their team and leading my recovery. I was home the next day and off painkillers within 72 hours. All of my old back pain was gone! I had a checkup at 3 weeks and another at 6 weeks after which I resumed normal activities, pain free! Dr. Vallone, James Aicardi and the whole team at California Pacific couldn't have been better! read more

Dr Valone is a miracle worker. I suffered a back injury that left me unable to walk and barely move. The nerve pain was unbearable. After a trip to the ER, I luckily wound up in Dr Valone's office. He had me in surgery within days. I can't thank him and his team enough. I'm over a year out now and have been pain free! The office staff were ao professional and easy to work with. read more

I had surgery on my lower lumbar 4 & 5 vertebrae. All who were involved were very professional and kind. After one week of surgery I was completely free of the pre surgery pain. 5 stars for surgical team, hospital stay, and post op care. Thank you Dr Valone and team. read more

Dr. Valone is top-notch and he's backed by a fabulous team. Dr. Aicardi, Maggie, Connor, the Front Office and anyone else I've dealt with in the process of my spinal surgery were super responsive, knowledgeable, and nice. Dr. Valone's team is respectful of your time and I never had to wait for long periods in a waiting room or exam room. You can trust this review as I am a cancer survivor and have seen many doctors and offices in the last 3 years. Cal Ortho turned a horrible, scary injury/surgery something I could deal with. They literally had their hands in my nerves but they sure didn't "get on my nerves". read more

One of the best. Extremely personable, top notch diagnostician, skilled surgeon. He performed back surgery on me, eliminating 5 years of back pain. Healed perfectly and I feel thirty years younger. Also worth a mention: he has probably the best office staffs I have come across. Very professional and caring. The Golden Gate practice is just great. read more

Dr Valone is attentive, provides high quality care, and has excellent bedside manner. He performed my back surgery and I have had a very smooth recovery. His staff are helpful and kind. read more

As the year changes to 2021, I would like to Thank you Dr. Frank Valone III. 17 months ago, you conducted a surgery on my lower back and by doing so you give me back my normal life again. With deep gratitude Elahe (Elli) Shahideh read more

Spinal fusion surgery went as described and outcome exceeded expectations. Playing golf with 90 days, virtually pain-free. Pre and post surgery treatment/explanations on target. read more

Not much to say here but Dr. Valone is the best Doctor I have ever had. I went in 5 years ago with 2 herniated discs and he was very conservative with the recommended treatment. When I came back, 4.5 years later, and the discs had degenerated significantly, he compassionately explained that i needed to have a procedure - as the long term outcome was poor. EVERYONE at his office and Presidio Surgery Center went beyond my expectations to make sure I felt taken care of and safe. I'd give 10 stars if I could...thank you Dr. Valone, Maggie, medical team and staff. read more

After 20 months of pains in my glutes and leg, it all went away in a single day after Dr. Frank Valone's 90-minute microscopic operation. I had tried a conservative approach during those 20 months, which worked well but the pains never completely left. I was told, also, that my condition would get considerably more serious. After first trying the conservative approach, I was ready to have the surgery as recommended. I had forgotten what it feels like to be pain free. read more

I am a retired physician and very particular about who I see medically. I found Dr Valone to be extremely professional and an excellent communicator via email. My surgical experience was excellent and the outcome, as well. I would recommend Dr F, Valone very highly. read more