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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I can't speak highly enough about Dr. Frank Valone and his team at California Pacific Orthopaedics, as well as the Presidio Surgery Center where Dr. Valone performed my lumbar decompression surgery. I had a herniated disk that was pushing on my S1 nerve root at my L5/S1. I was experiencing agonizing sciatica pain and had awoken one morning to demonstrable loss of strength in my lower right leg, and a limp. An initial MRI didn't show anything conclusive but Dr. Valone was tenacious and thorough and ordered additional tests (MR Neurogram, EMG, and Nerve Conduction Test) and that is when the herniated disc and onset nerve damage appeared. Dr. Valone was able to get me into surgery the following week as time is off the essence when there is nerve damage. Today is 3 weeks from the date of my surgery and I had my 1st post-op appt w/ Dr. Valone. I saw immediate relief of my symptoms after the surgery and today I have return of functionality in my right leg and am looking forward to starting physical therapy in 3 more weeks. Dr. Valone is a brilliant surgeon and a very warm and kind human, I am so thrilled that my primary MD referred me to him! Additionally, I want to thank Jina Park and James Aicardi at California Pacific Orthopedic for being so friendly and helpful with all of my questions. And lastly a massive shout out to the Presidio Surgery Center where everyone (from the front desk, to the nurses, Dr. Valone, James Aicardi, and my Anesthesiologist) was so warm and friendly, positive and good humored, and really went the extra mile to make me feel comfortable and confident I was in very competent hands. They even wrapped me in a warm blanket fresh out of the dryer while I was waiting to go into surgery. The vibe was very warm and cozy - what hospital can you say that about?! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I will jump at every chance I get to shout your praises to everyone I know. 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

Changed my life. I don't know how I did it, but I ruptured a disc in my back and was in excruciating pain and unable to walk on my right leg. After meeting with his PA and getting an MRI I met with Dr Valone. He explained what was causing my pain and the best option was to have the mass that was pinching the nerve in my back be removed surgically. He explained the procedure carefully. I have to say I wasn't thrilled about the idea of surgery, but I am so glad I did it. Dr. Valone and his team were excellent. I was back to walking the next day. Couldn't recommend Dr. Valone more highly. read more

Where do I begin. From my first appointment and at all my subsequent appointments Dr.Valone has show remarkable compassion and empathy. You cannot fake these qualities. Dr. Valone instilled confidence that he could help me and would take good care of me. His explanation of procedures and treatment were very clear. My procedure was a success and I am completely symptom free. His work is enhanced by an amazing support team who are professional and very caring. He is a true credit to his profession utilizing the art and science of healing with the latest in medical technology. read more

Dr. Valone has changed my life. I was in pain for years and had seen many doctors. Dr. Valone diagnosed my problem immediately, clearly explained why it was the best solution and instilled total confidence. I felt like I was in very good hands and trusted him implicitly. I'm 3 weeks post surgery and I feel great and like I have a new lease on life. I had my L4 / L5 fused which immediately eliminated the excruciating sciatic pain I'd experienced down my left side for years. My L5 had slipped forward. My spine feels so much stronger and I'm only 25% of the way through my recovery. I'm beyond grateful to Dr. Valone and his team. I highly recommend him. I also want to encourage anyone living with pain to not live with it if it's possible to remedy. Being pain free is pretty game changing. Thank you, Dr. Valone. read more

I had an excellent experience with Dr Valone and his team. I've never written a yelp review before but wanted to now because of the impact this team and surgery have had on my life. I'm 40 and have had lower back pain for 4 years which evolved into debilitating sciatica this past January. I am now 6 weeks post-op from micro decompression surgery, and am completely pain free. I forgot what this felt like, it honestly brings me to tears to do every day things like putting my kids to sleep and tying my shoes without pain. I can now look forward to building my strength back and doing the activities and sports I did in my 20s and mid 30s. Valone and Aicardi were responsive, kind, and understanding and took the time to answer all of my questions. I never waited for more than 5 minutes in the waiting room, and all of the support staff were friendly and professional. I am so grateful for this doctor/team and this surgery. read more