Dr. Thoreson has always been very considerate with my time, my concerns & always tries to use other methods before a prescription. The staff inside the office are always polite & take care of things very quick. I have been seeing Dr. Thoreson for more years than I can remember. Certainly appreciate the good care. Noel L. read more

Dr. Thoreson is great at writing scripts. My wife and I had been patients at his practice just short of 20 years. My experience was never spectacular. My needs at the time were mainly getting scripts for thyroid and cholesterol meds. My wife benefited more from his D.O. background. His use of placing vials containing herbs or minerals on my chest while checking arm resistance felt a bit like witch craft. If it speeds up the visit then so be it. At that time I would have given him a solid 4 stars. Now, would I not only give him zero stars but would like to warn others, in my opinion is his neglect of my health care needs. The issue started December 2022. Under his care, I started taking Naproxen Sodium for a shoulder injury. I never exceeded the dosage and told him I was taking the maximum shown on the bottle. He said that was fine as long as I didn't exceed the dosage. He didn't request any kidney lab work prior to taking the pain meds. Later in the month I was experiencing fatigue and cold intolerance. I called to request lab tests followed by an office visit. Paula at the front desk told me that a visit was required before the lab work could be requested. I stated that I wanted to arrive with lab results to hopefully give Dr. Thoreson some information to determine what was causing my symptoms. Again she told me the sequence is Dr. visit then labs. The visit consisted of Dr. Thoreson writing lab orders which I completed at CPL a few blocks down on Jollyville Rd. This was 12/22/22. Christmas Eve morning Dr. Thoreson received a call from CPL that my calcium levels were elevated and that I should go to the hospital immediately. Upon arriving at the Heart Hospital at 45th street, they confirmed the elevated calcium but their main concern was my creatine level was five times higher than normal levels from the Naproxen Sodium I was taking under his care. I was in kidney failure. I spent the Christmas holidays in the hospital getting flushed with IVs. Luckily there's no permanent damage but if I was allowed to visit Dr. Thoreson with lab work in hand he could have caught the extreme levels of creatine and possibly saved me from a hospital visit and the costs associated with it. My wife and I scheduled a follow up visit on 12/27/22 to give our concerns about not being allowed to request labs prior to the visit on 12/22/22. He was visibly uncomfortable during the visit. Possibly because he knew he could have prevented this situation? I think so. The rest of the visit basically consisted of him telling us that I should have pressed the importancy of wanting the labs prior to the 12/22/22 visit. We were dumb founded. Is he really victim blaming us? Dr. Thoreson has never had a good bedside manner but this is so incredibly unprofessional it came across as covering his ass for what he knows he's responsible for. My wife and I have changed primary care providers. In my opinion, Dr. Thoreson is not up for the medical challenge of patients that need more than prescriptions written and needs to retire.. If you as a patient need the most basic care, he's adequate. read more

I love going to a good DO like Dr Thoreson because I think his knowledge is far ranging that most western docs, who seem more cookie cutter these days. He takes time and explains things, more than I can take in sometimes, but far better than the opposite. read more

I have been lucky enough to have Dr. Thoreson as my family's PCP for more than a decade. He is extremely thorough, knowledgeable and up-to-date on the latest medical information. He is humble and respectful to his patients, listening carefully, taking the time to educate them on treatment options, and involving them in their own health maintenance and recovery. Dr. Thoreson has seen me through some very difficult health transitions and has continued to be curious, patient and seek answers and/or solutions when other Doctor's (specialists) became frustrated. He offers real solutions, such as Low Dose Allergy Immunotherapy (LDA) treatments which can eradicate environmental and food allergies and chemical sensitivities. I am grateful to Dr. Thoreson and look forward to continuing to working with him and continued health improvement! read more

I first saw Dr. Thoreson about 16 years ago when my so-called "Women's Endocrinologist" told me there was "nothing more she could do for me." I have hypothyroidism and *thought* I was seeing a specialist - supposedly the "best" in her field. I was horrified when she literally turned me away. I had heard of Dr. Thoreson through a friend at work and decided to give him a try. He ran some tests that the Endocrinologist did not, pinpointed my problem, prescribed a supplemental medication and - I kid you not - within two days I was a new person. He has a brilliant mind. I trust him implicitly. read more

I have been seeing Dr Thoreson for several years. I am entirely pleased with my care and the entire experience in his office. He identified and successfully treated a mystery condition where my knees were popping out of alignment when I turned over in bed. I always find him a cheerful good listener and he addresses several of my concerns in one encounter. I NEVER feel rushed. He even laughs at my jokes. When I raise a new issue, he typically describes the most recent research, which I find reassuring. Recently, I asked him to decide which of three practitioners I should see about doing prolotherapy, which he does, on my knee. To my amazement, he suggested I see the doc who had earlier successfully done prolo on the other knee. This was a further indicator that he has my interests at heart. I like and have a pleasant relationship with everyone at the office, and am never kept waiting. What more can I say? read more

Dr Thoreson has a quirky bedside manner but is very caring and thorough. If you're like me and you don't always fit into the classical medical model you'll enjoy his approach. You can absolutely get a prescription but he's most interested in treating the root cause from a whole-body perspective and that's exactly what I was looking for when I found his office. The receptionist is warm and friendly, and if you're lucky you can get a visit from the Dr's dog while you're waiting for your appointment in the exam room. I've experienced Dr Thoreson's care in an urgent medical situation as well as for a full exam and found him to be thorough and caring in both situations. Glad he's my PCP and does osteopathic adjustments when my lumbar spine is cranky. read more

Seemed very bothered by the fact that I made it clear from the beginning I was in extreme pain and I felt the situation was urgent. It was like he was bummed out I was intruding on his chill afternoon (there was no one in the office before me or after me.) His practice is obviously more "boutique" in nature but when I made it clear I wanted referrals if he couldn't help me, he managed to give me a couple of names which I appreciate. He did examine me while I was there. It would seem doctors would know PCP blow off a lot of more "complex" diagnosis which is what leads us to endless "specialists" then we desperately think we need holistic doctor. American medicine is as disappointing and frustrating as the stories we all hear in many of these reviews. It sucks to endlessly suffer in this substandard system; pushed off to another doctor for another similar devaluing experience. read more

Dr. Thoreson is a healer. And that term is one I am able to use for very few Doctors. He is kind and compassionate and listens to what you are saying. He has been in practice for thirty years and continues to be a wise and informed Doctor. One can tell that he cares. He listens to your body. I consider his treatment methods to be a combination of Western and Eastern medicine. He is openminded and doesn't readily dispense drugs. His supplements are all priced more inexpensively than other health stores. It is a real treat to see Dr.Thoreson and his staff are wonderful too. Cindi is the Office Manager, Paula runs the front desk and Gloria is the RN. They all treat me like family. Dr. Thoreson has taken me from a life of constant pain and fatigue to a feeling of hope. The drive from Southwest Austin to North Austin used to seem long, now I look forward to the drive. You can ask Dr. Thoreson a question about any medical question and he gives a reasoned answer. He keeps up with the literature. I can ask him what he thinks about taking Statin drugs for high cholesterol, or removing mercury fillings from my teeth. He seems to know the answer to every question I ask him. And I don't have any other Doctors who have time for questions, much less random ones I am curious about. I was about to give up hope of everfeeling better. Now my Arthritis, Interstitial Cystitis, Degenerative Disc Disease and fatigue are improving with each visit. I wonder what my life would have been like if I had found him sooner. But I know about him now and he is slowly but surely changing my life for the better. Bless you Dr. Thoreson. read more

As indicated in an earlier review, Dr. Robert Thoreson, Austin, osteopath, is the person to go to for a 2nd medical opinion when another md wants to do surgery or inject a chemical, etc. ( By the way: Dr. T is also my primary physician--& visits/treatments are typically covered by insurance and/or Medicare) Dr. Thoreson is very good about recommending a patient see a medical specialist-- as has happened 3 times in my case. If you cannot afford supplements he might recommend, Dr. T will tell you which one is the most important (and to let the others slide). Just tell him what your financial situation is. About 10 days ago I developed a hiatal hernia. Conventional medicine says I 'should' be taking a prescription to control the GERD/IBS etc that's usually associated with such a hernia. (Just google to see all the chemicals that regular allopathic docs/drug companies push off on patients). Yesterday, I saw Dr. T and told him about the hernia. He did a physical adjustment just under my rib cage both front & back. I walked out minus my hernia! (He also gave me tips about how to eat (slowly, chewing at least 50 times, avoiding certain foods, etc.) and other life style tips. We're also working on my hypothyroid/hormone issue, overgrowth of candida, and nutritional issues--using natural approaches in all instances. Though, if necessary, since he can/does prescribe drugs; he can suggest a prescription but as a "last resort". Furthermore, when I don't want to use a drug, he understands and we continue to work together. In my experience, too many md's take such a refusal as an affront to their ego. The cons about Dr. Thoreson? Have your questions/concerns written out 'cause sometimes he seems in a hurry -- well, he does have a lot of patients. Write down what he suggests you do --especially if it's a treatment that goes beyond that one visit, because notes don't always get put into your file. (You might want to tape record the visit) I don't know of any other Austin doctor (who's also covered by insurance) with whom I can comfortably partner with. This is a person you can talk straight with...for me this is a huge plus. read more

Dr. Thoreson's interpersonal style is a bit quirky but he once saved me from an expensive and potentially ineffective surgery recommended by a different doctor. I found his sense of humor fun and refreshing and his dedication to medicine is apparent. He uses some "out there" alternative treatments like muscle testing and while he was doing this, I practically laughed out loud at how absurd it seemed, but he was like a detective determined to solve a mystery and since he cured my medical issue, I can't question his methods. I would definitely visit him again for any "out of the box" medical treatment. read more

All I know is that Dr. Thoreson has been my doctor for over 12 years and in most cases he was able to identify what traditional doctors either ignored or just did not know. read more

This doctor should know that his staff answering the phones is turning business away. I called and they are accepting new patients, but not onboarding new patients. So, you have to have a problem before they'll do a checkup. This came as a recommendation from a friend, but I care about other things besides a doctor's knowledge. It is the entire experience and I won't support bad service with my health dollars. read more

Great doc! More docs should care as much as spend the time to discuss issues like he does. I feel lucky I found a holistic doctor who cares, understands the body, and takes insurance too. : ) read more

I wasn't going to review, but I felt the need to clarify, that Dr. Thoreson's office has a sign on the door that says VERY clearly at eye-level: Turn cell-phones off before entering office. This is because one of his staff member and some of his patients are very sensitive to microwave signals. I doubt anyone was "yelled at", but I'm not surprised if there was a stern admonishment, which could have been interpreted as yelling by someone who was in distress over their health. I know I'm more sensitive when I feel bad. Anyway, not saying it didn't happen, but I just can't imagine anyone there actually yelling. I will say that Dr. Thoreson is not very warm. He's gifted though. He does have you choose between your complaints to address only one or 2 at a time. He is in a hurry to see many people. Plus, as much as I don't like it, it's not realistic to have a doctor fix every ailment you may have in one visit. However his treatments/ adjustments (Low-velocity adjustments), do take some time and concentration on his part. It's not as if he's so rushed he doesn't provide good care. He's just not chatty; he's all business. That being said, one of the best docs going in my mind. If you see him, just understand that he's not warm and fuzzy and don't take it personally. read more

I like Dr. Thoreson but the only frustrating point with him is he always runs at least 30 minutes late. If you have a tight schedule, he may not be your best choice. read more

Worst first experience ever. He ran very late for appointment and when I did see him, he asked (no exaggeration) "what's wrong with you?" I explained my situation, he asked why I was there and what I needed from him. Ummm..?? Really? So he examined my spine-ROUGHLY, I actually felt very unsafe while he handled me. He was clearly in a rush and did not take my situation seriously and was quite unprofessional. The MRI place called him to fax a referral later and he did nothing. Stay away from this "doctor." read more

Perfect healer for my husband. One visit and shoulder fixed. Not the healer for me. Two visits and almost $500 later (all but $120 covered by insurance) and no help, and I still don't know what's going on with my hip. Also, Paula (at the front desk, answers the phone, etc) runs hot/cold--either very grumpy or very cordial. Cindy, Dr. T's wife, is very kind. She does billing? Anyway, I won't go back, but if you have a specific joint problem like my husband with a limited movement in his shoulder, Dr. T is good. Blessings to all of you needing medical help. I know how difficult it can be. read more

I found just calling for general information, and Paula answered. She was very curt, and short with her answers. Not at all friendly to a potential patient. His business must. E great, because his office staff was rude! read more

I like that he tries to treat health conditions holistically. However, the cancelation policy is difficult. I was unable to make an appointment due to work and I was going to be 20 minutes late. However, I couldn't have the appointment and now I owe $50 for a cancellation fee. I work three jobs and paying $50 for a missed visit is difficult for me. I will not be returning. read more

Thanks to Dr Thoreson, I became pain free again!!. I had knee surgery and was in much pain for many months and not improving. The original surgeon never followed up and the nurse turned me away when I was suffering. I guess they got all they could out of the insurance so it was fine with them if the specimen ...I mean former patient...was in pain. The medical "care" that we have now is a disaster, but it is so nice to know that some doctors still want to help. I am now improving since I don't need drugs from the incredible pain after exercising. I am so grateful to not have pain every step! read more

How wonderful to have found a doctor with a focus on and extensive knowledge about overall health care with both conventional and more alternative approaches and methods. And how refreshing not to leave a doctor's office with a handful of prescriptions (that cause more problems), but with a plan to address or resolve the problem in the first place. Dr. Thoreson addresses my concerns, suggests potential treatments, outlines the related costs, advantages and disadvantages of each. The fact that he is able to offer outstanding osteopathic care is icing on the cake. read more

I saw Dr. Thoreson for several years. When I first started seeing him, I was very encouraged, because he seemed to have a genuine interest in my health. He did the full ION panel, etc., which was great. After a while, though, he became very short and callous with his mannerisms. On what became my final appointment with him, he was extremely rude and seemed completely disinterested in my concerns. As I was checking out, he seemed interested only in making sure that I bought more vitamins from the clinic. It left quite a bad taste in my mouth, and I vowed never to return...I am not a doctor hopper, but I have no problem finding a new doctor if I feel that my concerns are not being addressed. The clinic is in a beautiful, peaceful area, but if the patients' needs aren't priority, the entire purpose of the clinic is nullified. Hope that someday he'll get back to the way he used to be. read more