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Spine and Orthopaedic Institute
Texas Center for Athletes
21 Spurs Lane Suite 245
San Antonio, Tx.78240

210.48.SPINE
(210.487.7463)
Fax: 210.487.7468

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Testimonials

In 2000 I was in a car accident which resulted in excruciating back pain. I went to physical therapy for months without any relief and then began seeing a pain management specialist. Prior to the accident I worked full time, went to school full time, kept up with the household chores, cooked daily, and had an active social life. During the next five years the pain became more difficult to live with. I had to quit school, could no longer work, and I was not able to focus on day to day activity. I was taking five different anti-depressants, 2 types of muscle relaxers, topamax, duragesic patches, & lortab. I honestly didn’t care if I even woke up.

I head Dr. Cyr was a top spine surgeon in San Antonio Texas. The first time I was in Dr. Cyr’s office was in 2006 I had no idea of the impact he would have on my life. In July 2006 I had a 3 level cervical fusion and in May 2007 a 2 level lumbar fusion. Within three months of my second surgery I went back to work. I lost about 70 pounds just because I could get out of bed and do things on a daily basis. I was able to stop all of the anti-depressants except for one. I occasionally take a muscle relaxer or a pain killer. In Oct. 2009 I had a 6 level cervical fusion which I am currently recovering from. I am even going back to school in January. Dr. Cyr & Eloy are my life savors because without them I don’t know where I would be now. They gave me my life back.

There is no way to express the gratitude that I have for finding such a compassionate, caring surgeon & surgical team who are nothing less than a perfectionists and a role models, in my eyes for all medical professionals.

Christina Espinoza

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I’m excited this year to join my family and friends in celebrating the holidays. Last year at this time, it was a different story. I was in constant agony from one herniated disk and three degenerated disks in my lower back. I had no interest in food or fun and being at work was an ordeal.

From the moment I opened my eyes in the morning to the time I closed them at night I was in excruciating pain. I was either standing or lying down as sitting was unbearably painful. So that’s what I did; stood for eight hours at work each day, stood at my kitchen counter to eat and do homework for my online classes or lay in bed. My entire day consisted of attempting to manage and minimize the back, hip and leg pain. Some days were worse than others and when it became too much for me, someone would take me home. I was no longer driving because it was too painful, and dangerous, considering the pain meds I was taking.

Then I met Dr. Steven Cyr to discuss options. He told me a four level disk fusion was controversial and the alternative was to manage the pain with medication for years and years. I broke down. All hope of relief disappeared. How was I supposed to continue as I was? The pain increased with each month that passed. There seemed no hope for a normal life ever again.

After another visit with Dr. Cyr, he agreed to do the surgery. The surgery took thirteen and a half hours and initially I was afraid I made a mistake by having it, the pain was incredible. Despite that, I did everything I was supposed to do and followed the doctors’ orders after the surgery. Recovery has been long and is still in progress, but with amazing results. I can now sit for prolonged periods and don’t have any of the pain I had prior to surgery. When it’s cold, my back gets a little achy and I’m not as flexible as I once was. Those are very small inconveniences compared to life before surgery.

Every day I am thankful for Dr. Cyr and his commitment to patient care. After twenty months of suffering, I finally have my life back. I am blessed beyond words and excited about sitting, standing, walking and living. Thank you Dr. Cyr. You are the best best spine surgeon San Antonio has to offer. As a matter of fact you are the best spine surgeon Texas has to offer too.

ML2009

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I have been under the care Spine and Orthopaedic since 2007, after using another orthopedic Doctor in the San Antonio area and having felt like just a number, I visited them for treatment of a myriad of problems I was having. My Mother was treated by Eloy Casteneda for a shoulder injury and without having to undergo surgery, Mr. Casteneda worked with her to almost completely rid her of all her pain. Her testimony was the reason I visited with them. I hope that my testimony will help anyone who reads this an opportunity to give themselves a chance to be rid of the daily chronic pain that they may have. Dr. Neilsen operated on my shoulder and did a terrific job, and worked on my trigger finger and has almost helped it return to normal. They treat everyone as if they are part of the family, and listen attentively as Doctors should. Your the best Orthopaedic Surgeon in San Antonio, keep up the GREAT work!

J. Trejo

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Dr. Nilsson is always very punctual and staff also very professional yet friendly. Doesn't necessarily make one feel like you are at a MDs office. All great experience (except for the injury)! You are the best Orthopaedic Surgeon Texas has to offer.

Rose M. Ramos

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I am a patient of Dr. Steven Cyr at the San Antonio Orthopedic Institute, who was suffering with severe neck and shoulder pain. Dr. Cyr and his nurse practitioner, Eloy Casteneda, examined me thoroughly with physical nerve examinations, MRI's, and diagnostic x-rays. With that he and his staff would do everything in their power to help me.
?Since the first office visit, through surgery and post operative visits, Dr. Cyr and staff, have shown excellent professionalism. Dr. Cyr has exhibited compassion,empathy, above average bedside manner, and most of all, he listens intently to his patients and tries to see how he can best help him/her. That has been my experience. Dr. Cyr has saved my life. I would, and have been, recommending Dr. Cyr to whomever I feel would benefit from his extraordinary care. Thank you,

Leslie Gonzalez

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This letter is being written to express our most sincere appreciation and gratitude for not only your skill and knowledge as a surgeon, but the kindness and compassion you show your patients. Two years ago was an extremely difficult time for both my Grandfather and me. We had just lost my Grandmother, his wife of 58 years. Just when we thought things couldn’t get worse, he developed herniated discs in his back that compressed several nerves and caused severe leg pain. The pain rendered him almost completely immobile. Now a once extremely active & vivacious 82 year old was confined to his home, and a wheelchair to move any considerable distance. He was on a cocktail of pain medications whose side effects were often times worse than the pain itself. For an entire year we went from doctor to doctor, medication to medication, in desperate hopes of finding a solution. We felt as if the medical community was unwilling to bother because of his age. We were devastated and running out of hope. I prayed every night as I watched my Grandfather slowly give up on life. It was the most helpless feeling I’ve ever experienced. Then one day, the blessing I had been praying for arrived. That blessing was you. You were compassionate and understanding, and determined to give a great man a second chance at life. And even though we knew and accepted the risks of such a surgery on a man my Grandfathers age, we had full confidence that you would do all you could to ensure success. And what a success it was! He was in almost no pain just days after the surgery. And now, a year later, he is active and enjoying life to the fullest. Dr. Cyr, there will never be enough words to express how thankful we are for all you’ve done. You are an angel, the best Orthopaedic Surgeon in San Antonio and we wish you continued success in all you do.

Julie Holcomb and William McAbee

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I have been suffering for over a decade with neck and back pain. I have been to several chiropractors since October of 2000 who just made sure that I kept coming back for adjustments 3 times a week for over 5 years - I had no relief. I had other doctors prescribe heavy pain medications that did nothing except make my mind spin. Eloy Castenada has been seeing me for the past 5 months. Yes, I have waited in the the waiting room for hours (for those of you complaining about waiting), but it is WELL WORTH THE WAIT!!! Eloy knows what he is doing, and takes his time to be certain that he can answer all my questions, explain every procedure and I always feel comfortable, cared for and loved by this man. Dr. Cyr and Eloy Castenada will be performing a major surgery on my neck the first week of November. Tonight I had my surgery consultation with the two of them. I was beyond nervous....completely petrified upon hearing the severity of the surgery I need to have done. However, after leaving the office, and having a good cry, I am unnaturally calm. I believe that both of these men are gifted by God. They know what they are doing, they are genuine, they answered my questions, they even gave me and my husband a well needed hug after the consultation. I have complete trust and faith that Dr. Cyr and Eloy will do their absolute best - and that my surgery will be a success. God Bless these men....and their staff. I am so eternally grateful........I'll let you know how the surgery comes out....until then.....have sunny days. :) I truly believe you are the best Orthopedic Surgeon in San Antonio.

Jenniferocious
San Antonio, Texas

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I really wanted to stop today and say just how great I have been feeling since my surgery. I just want to say thank you for everything. You and Eloy Castenada have done so much for me. I’d also like to say thanks to the entire staff at The Spine and Orthopeadic Institute. Everyone involved with me and my case have been fantastic. You see, a year ago I was so desperate for some relief from the terrible back pain I was experiencing due to chronic back problems and two previously unsuccessful spine surgeries. I have been suffering with back pain and degenerative disk problems for at least the last fifteen years. The two unsuccessful surgeries really multiplied my pain to the point where I did not know who or where to go and the pain itself was almost completely unbearable.

I had two previous surgeries by another doctor. The first surgery was a 2-Level Spinal Fusion at L3-L4 to L5-S1. The procedure was from the back only and the doctor was using something called BMP along with rods and screws. He said this would work and everything would be fine. The first year following surgery was a very trying, painful and difficult year, but somehow I managed through the pain. Well, after the first year this doctor had me in for a second surgery to remove all the hardware in my back. This is when the real problems starting happening. I was in extreme pain almost from the time I woke up from surgery until I came to see you. I spent an entire year in absolutely excrutiating pain. As it turned out I had almost no spinal support whatsoever after these surgeries.

My first visit was with Eloy Casteneda, not only was Eloy empathetic to my situation but he assured me that together, you would look at everything carefully and do all you could to help. After some X-Rays and review of the MRI’s I provided, he was very positive that you could help me. He ordered additional tests and called for my records from various doctors. To make a long story short, after complete consultation I decided to move forward with a three level spinal fusion from L2-L3 to L5-S1. Only, this surgery would include bone grafts from my hip and from bone donors. The surgery would also be done to both the back of my spine as well as the front. I was a little skeptical but the pain was so great any hope was all I needed and the reassurance I received from you and Eloy gave me confidence.

I remember the morning of surgery, I was definitely nervous. When I woke I was in the ICU, the care there was great. I did not have this type of care following my previous surgeries. The level of attention I received was far superior and made my recovery in the hospital much easier. The pain management program you ordered for me was also far superior and my level of pain following surgery was much more controlled. In fact, the entire program you had post-operative was far better than anything previous I received from the other surgeon. I noticed almost immediately that my back pain was different. Yes, I had pain, but I was able to move around in bed right away, I hadn’t been able to move that freely for the past year. I was up and walking the next day and by the 4th day I was ready to go home.

During the next several months recovering at home I could literally feel myself healing. I was able to move around quicker and I felt like things were improving a little everyday. Today it has been 10 months since my surgery and I feel so much better. My surgery was big and I have the scars to prove it but my pain is so much less now than before. I recall saying my pain was an “8”, I wanted to say 10 but who would have believed that. Today I would say my pain is a 3, I still get a little fatigued if I try to do too much but I can do so much more than before. I am active again, I feel healthier and I look forward to a day when my pain is a “0”. My goal is to get there and with more time, physical therapy and stretching I should make it.

I don’t think anyone else could have done for me what all of you have done. I am grateful for how well I am feeling, I didn’t think anyone would be able to fix the problems from the first 2 surgeries. Frankly, I don’t know how long I could have lasted with the pain I was in. I feel like I’ve got a second chance and a new back. I want to tell everyone out there who has serious back problems to come and see you, that the wait is worth it, that there are people who really care about your back problems and really want to help. I do want others to know this, but more importantly I want you to know exactly how I feel.

Thank you again for everything. I know it isn’t quite over yet but together we’re getting there.

Sincerely,

Lisa Grona-Takacs
San Antonio, Texas

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It was about 2 years ago that I injured myself at work. My bosses refered me to Workmens Compensation who then send me to see a physician in Concentra Medical Center.

I was diagnosed with a severe herniation of the L5 S1 disk. From there I was refered to Dr. Steven Cyr for surgery. My experience with Dr. Cyr as well as Eloy Castaneda has been incredible. When I first went to them I had extreme back and leg pain. Numbness of my foot and extreme weakness. Dr. Cyr began treatment immediately. They treated my family like their own, explaining everything to them as well as me and making it more understandable and bearable for me. Dr. Cyr performed a one level fusion in January 4, 2009, and after the surgery I have been incredibly well, The pain is not completely gone, but I feel so much better, I can feel my leg and although is still weak, it is not as weak as it was before, I have regain my confidence back. and I am active again. I still have to do Physical therapy and I still have a long way to fully recover.

I will trust no other doctor with my spine than Dr. Cyr and Eloy Castaneda.

-by Maria Cruz
Logistics Manager
Travel Manager
BIOMIN America Inc

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Dr. Steven Cyr is a remarkable surgeon. He possesses a rare quality that not many doctors today have. That is the ability to make you feel like you are his only patient.

I have had ankylosing spondalitis for 33 years - most of my adult life. I have had chronic neck pain for about the last 12 years. My doctors have tried to get the muscles to relax with botox injections, marcaine injections, lidocaine patches and finally steriod injections. They would help for about 4 - 6 weeks and then I would go back for another round of injections.

Dr. Cyr preformed a C3-C7 Laminectomy and C3-T1 PSIF. I am now seven months from the surgery and am thankful every day that I had the surgery and that Dr. Cyr was my surgeon. It has literally been years since I have been this pain free. I had forgotten what normal people could feel like.

I know that the Lord blessed me with Dr. Cyr as sure as I know that Dr. Cyr has been blessed by God with an amazing surgical talent.

God bless all of these wonderful surgeons for giving so much of themselves to their patients.

-by Ardis Geurts

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Methodist Healthcare recently implemented an Inpatient Discharge Call Manager process to help with post-hospital visit follow-up. Staff is placing over 350 phone calls per day to newly discharged inpatients to receive their feedback on the care provided them during their hospital stay. The results have been invaluable in confirming or revising certain hospital processes and patient care practices.

The feedback received is also an opportunity for us to give praise to units and individual staff members or find opportunities for improvement. That is why I am writing you, to communicate some positive comments made by a patient about the care they received from you at Methodist Hospital. I have included a copy of the flyer, which will be posted at the facility.

Thank you for your service to the patients and staff at Methodist Hospital. It is physician partners like you who help us achieve our mission of Serving Humanity to Honor God each and every day.

-by Mike E. Duffy, FACHE
CEO, Methodist Hospital

"He is the sweetest doctor. I went to 5 different doctors before him who all just told me I was too old to fix and I went to see him and he didn't send me away."

"1felt like the Lord sent him to me, because now I'm living without that horrible pain because of Dr. Fogel."

-by patient
Methodist Hospital

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This is my testimony to the wonderful care I receive from Eloy, Dr. Cyr and all the staff at the Spine and Orthopedic Institute.

When I first came to Dr. Cyr in 2006, I had already had spine surgery, but continued to have problems and chronic back pain. At the Spine and Orthopedic clinic, I received the most professional and compassionate care ever expected. After undergoing two years of injections to alleviate the pain, Dr Cyr and I agreed to have surgery.

I am an elementary Special Education teacher and was having difficulty performing my regular classroom duties. Prior to having the surgery, I was placed on medical leave pending the surgery. Undergoing this type of surgery was a frightening thing, but I knew that I would be fine in the care of Eloy. He reassured me and educated me completely throughout the preparation of the surgery. He is an exceptional man. He was there to hold my hand and assist Dr Cyr through my nine hour disc replacement. Dr. Cyr is an exceptional surgeon and has been blessed with a great talent. My surgery was a complete success, and I recovered just as Dr. Cyr said I would. I was able to return to school 12 weeks after my surgery.

It’s been one year since my surgery, and my spine is doing well. The outcome that was expected is now here because of the magnificent work of Dr. Cyr.

-by Marie Martinez

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I began seeing Dr. Cyr and Eloy Castaneda in early 2006 for neck pain after having surgery with Dr. F, a neurosurgeon. Dr. F did a fusion at the C6 and C7 levels which did not help my arm pain. Dr. F was surprised after surgery when my pain continued and said it should have improved, nothing more. I decided to get a second opinion with Dr. Cyr. Dr. Cyr ordered an MRI and CT scan of my neck and told me I had pressure on a nerve in my neck where Dr. F did the surgery. Dr. Cyr did surgery to remove this pressure on this nerve and my pain went away.
I now only have my family see Dr. Cyr and Eloy for spine surgery. He is an excellent surgeon. He thoroughly explained every MRI and CT scan. He did a good physical exam and spent a lot of time with me and my wife explaining the surgery in detail. I highly recommend Dr. Cyr and believe he is the best spine surgeon in Texas.

-by James Ervin

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Read more Testimonials...

My name is Robert Ruiz, I am a firefighter/paramedic with the San Antonio Fire Department, and I would like to share my experiences and interactions regarding Dr. Steven Cyr and his medical staff.

I was injured on duty in June of 2008. I was diagnosed with a herniated L5-S1 disc with radiculopathy in my left leg. After going through aquatic therapy and physical therapy with no improvement, I was referred to Dr. Cyr by my primary doctor. I met with Dr. Cyr and his staff for my initial evaluation and MRI review. He patiently took the time to review my MRI, conduct a detailed physical exam, and explain his findings to me in detail. We then discussed my treatment options.

Dr. Cyr’s recommendation was that we start conservatively and try steroid injections. He also inquired how my pain medications were working for me. I told him they really were not helping me. He explained that muscle relaxors and narcotic pain meds were not my only or best option. He told me he thought I would benefit from Lyrica and took the time to explain the drug to me and why he thought it would help me. He made sure I understood everything and that he answered all my questions before he left the room. I left the appointment very satisfied and impressed by Dr. Cyr. He took the time to address all of my questions and concerns in a very personable and professional manner. I was impressed that a surgeon would advise me not to rush into surgery, but instead to try to exercise all other options first. Something he told me has stood out to me as being the perfect example of his personable approach to patient care. He explained his recommendation for my treatment plan would be the same advice he would give to a member of his own family.

Two days after starting the Lyrica I noticed a huge difference in my pain levels. For the first time in 2 months I was not miserable. I owe that to Dr. Cyr, as none of the other doctors I had seen even mentioned Lyrica as an option. I think that is a testament to Dr. Cyr’s ability to devise a comprehensive care plan, tailored to each individual patient, for maximum effectiveness. However, even with the Lyrica and 2 steroid injections over the next several months, I had no relief. At the time I made an appointment to see Dr. Cyr to discuss my options. He told me we were out of options and discussed surgery. He explained the different surgical procedures that were available to me. He also discussed the pros and cons of each one as it pertained to my specific case. Once again he spent a lot of time with me, answering questions and making sure I understood everything. We decided on an open discectomy, which was scheduled for January 2009.
The morning of the surgery we went over the procedure again and what I could expect. He was honest and truthful and did not make a bunch of false promises as to my outcome. All he promised was that he would do the best he could for me. I appreciated his honesty and candor, as I don’t think many surgeons would be so frank. Going into surgery I felt calm and safe knowing I was in the hands of an exceptional surgeon. After the surgery, Dr. Cyr came into my room and explained everything he found and what he did during the surgery. He had another surgery to do but later came back to my room again to check on me. He answered all my questions and then left with the instructions to call him if I had any problems. I was discharged the next day and had several follow up appointments with Dr. Cyr over the next few months.

My outcome since my surgery has been better than I expected, and I think I owe it all to Dr. Cyr and his staff. I believe Dr. Cyr possesses a rare combination of competence, skill, integrity, compassion, and personality. I feel extremely fortunate that I was referred to him. I would not hesitate to see him again for any future surgical needs; in fact, I would insist on it! I would also strongly recommend him to anyone else needing an exceptional spinal surgeon.

Thank you,

-by Robert Ruiz

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I was referred to Dr Cyr at Wilford Hall by my PCM because of my constant back & leg pain. First off, I have to say, I have nothing but love, praise & admiration for Dr Cyr. He is simply the BEST. He is fantastic, knowledgeable, competent, handsome, compassionate & loving. After he reviewed my MRI Dr Cyr asked me if I would consider having back surgery. My immediate response was NO because I had a failed surgery in June 2000 which made my pain even worse than before the surgery. I told him I did not want to go through the same helpless feeling I experienced after my surgery in 2000. We talked at length about what the surgery would entail. I told Dr Cyr I would discuss it with my family & would let him know. When I walked out of his office, all I could think of was Dr Cyr and how confident he was that he could correct my back problems. I had gone through years of steroid injections in my back at civilian pain management clinics to relieve the pain. All to no a!
vail. In the spring of 2008 I decided to go ahead with the surgery but I told Dr Cyr I would like to wait until November 2008 to allow me to build up my leave at work. Dr Cyr agreed to schedule the surgery for November 4, 2008 (Election day). Throughout my meetings with Dr Cyr prior to the surgery, he was caring & compassionate. He reassured me everything would be okay. I felt safe in his hands. My surgery lasted 15 hours. Now I feel GREAT!!! All, thanks to Dr Cyr. I am sorry he is retiring from the military because I am selfish and won\'t get to see him again. But, I wish him the best because he is the BEST and I highly recommend him.

Dr Cyr, may God's Blessings upon you & your family be abundant.

-Maria Mendoza

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The intent of this letter has many purposes, first and foremost, to sincerely thank you all for your dedication to my health and family during such a difficult time in my life. There are no words that can express the gratitude we have for all you have done, above and beyond what the ‘norm’ is for caring for patients with injuries such as mine.

I came to you as a patient through a personal referral, George Gonzaba, who is a dear friend of mine. He simply picked up the phone during a meeting and called his brother, Greg and asked him to contact Eloy out of concern for the amount of pain I was in and the ‘unknown’ severity of my injuries. In the lifetime, I have learned that when you treat others with kindness and human decency , it is returned ten-fold through blessings, including the fact that your practice, in the middle of a location move, accepted an immediate appointment for me to meet with Eloy. What came after that is I became a patient of a ‘family’ of caregivers who would comfort me through the difficulties of my treatment.

I will go back to the beginning by explaining my nature and character, which many of you already know just from spending the past year and a half serving my health care needs. When I was initially injured in the auto accident, I naturally sought the advice of my manager, who instructed me to go to a chiropractor. Within the next 5 months, June 2007-November 2007, I afforded Dr. Woywood the same courtesy and trust that should be given to an accredited medical professional. As my treatment continued and I felt ‘some’ relief from the thoracic and lumbar pain, I still questioned the numbness, tingling and loss of strength in my right arm. On November 30th, Dr. Woywood adjusted my neck which resulted in a loud “pop” that lead to temporary paralysis to the entire right side of the body. I had requested an MRI on two separate occasions, both of which Dr. Woywood responded, “comp won’t pay for it.”

The reason this is key is that this occurrence is what brought me to your care. Once the MRI results were obtained, I was in awe of the fact that the severity of my injuries were at the level they were. Again, I had put my trust in my physician, and felt somewhat ‘betrayed’ that he did not do everything necessary to prevent the series of events that ended up in a life-threatening surgery and a total disruption of my life as I knew it. I have lost my health, my confidence and my career that I have put all I had into for the past 5 years. Imagine being fully healthy, successful in a career you love, financially stable and the next things you hear is ‘you need to get your affairs in order.’

I want to make clear that I completely understand the necessity of your business decision to discontinue serving TWCC patients, as I am also someone who is caught up in the ‘system.’ I respect what you all do and have watched your team grow from 4 persons to a well-run, well–oiled machine that serves its patients with due diligence. It was a pleasure, even though my misery, to witness the authentic care that ALL patients received, regardless of their injury or method of payment. That is how I live my life….serve and treat others as you wish to be served and treated.

In conclusion, I am saddened to say ‘goodbye’ to all of you who have cared for me and my family and to Dr. Cyr and Eloy who saved my life. I will forever be grateful for all of the special attention given when I was at my lowest point . I wish you much success and am honored to have had the opportunity to be treated by all of your staff. My family also extends their thanks.

God’s blessings to you All,

-by Danielle Valle

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The visits have been wonderful. Quickly in and out. Fantastic Staff & Doctor Nilsson has been Great!! :-)

-by J. Carlos Barrios

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The quality of care and treatment from the Dr. Nilsson and staff has been outstanding. I have recommended this clinic to other people with bone problems. I am considering returning for a back problem I have at a later date.

-by Luther Keammerer

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Everyone at the Spine & Orthopaedic Institute has been a pleasure to work with. Dr. Nilsson has been both informative and caring since our first meeting. The pre-op & post op experiences were pleasant and accommodating to my needs. Thanks Everyone!

-by Adrian Gonzales

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I was well cared for and treated nicely by everyone. Very Professional.

-by Robert Carey

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Everybody has been very very nice. I had so much pain before and I see Dr. Nilsson. When I see him I feel so much better.

-by Diana L. Guervara

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I had struggled with a persistent shoulder injury for the past year before being referred to Dr. Nilsson. I was worried that my shoulder would never be the same and feared my active lifestyle and career would have to change. After that Initial visit, Dr. Nilsson helped to erase all those fears. I found encouragement from the support of the entire staff and was quickly scheduled for my surgery it was a success and I was returning to work much more quickly than anticipated. Because of the wonderful job Dr. Nilsson did on repairing my shoulder. I am now able to return to the job of my dreams with the confidence that the new shoulder he gave to me will allow me to keep living my dream for many years to come.

-by Bridgette Pirtle

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Everyone is great!!

-by Sylvia White
Dr. Nilsson's patient

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I enjoyed my visit with Dr. Nilsson and his staff treated me very nice at all my visits.

-by Maria Saldivar

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Congratulations Dr. Cyr!

Your name was mentioned in this weeks Press Ganey Survey by patient Marie Pollok. Marre said you are an excellent doctor and North Central Baptist hospital should be known as having the best-trained spinal doctors.

Thank you for everything you do.

-by Blanca Ochoa, Patient Advocate
North Central Baptist Hospital

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I have long wanted to write my thanks to Dr. Cyr and Dr. Castaneda, but how do you really thank someone who has literally given you your life back? I suppose I should really thank Dr McKee for referring me to them.

After years of migraines and other neck problems and weeks of hospitalization at a time under heavy sedation for pain, I could not fake my way thru the days any longer. These wonderful people found my problem. My head and neck felt SO heavy and were actually falling off of my shoulders due to poorly done previous surgeries. They took me apart from C2-T4 and for the first time in yrs I was migraine free.

Yes, the time you spend in the waiting room might be a bit long some days, but it is worth every minute of the wait. They give each patient the time they need to explain their problems and feelings to the Dr. about their case, as well as the time it takes for the Dr. to explain their findings to you, over and over again until you as the patient understand the situation. No, these guys are the best!!! Eloy makes you laugh when you feel like you just can't ever again, bless his heart.

My surgery was on a Sunday and I could only wonder about their families and the time spent away from them, and feel even more grateful for their attentions and what time do these guys sleep?

All I will ever be able to say about either of them or their staff, is that they are great people, highly qualified in their field, but more than that, they still maintain that most important quality...that warm human quality.

They are not in this for the money, but for the people, and you can feel it in the room the minute they walk in and they LOVE a challenge! Don't tell them it can't be done because they will try their best to find the way to do it. They have all of the latest cutting edge techniques down pat.

I would never hesitate to recommend these Drs. to anyone that I felt might benefit from their knowledge and expertise.

I will personally be eternally grateful, as will my family.

If loyalty counts, you have my vote!

-by Randi

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I would like to Thank DR. Steven Cyr, Eloy Castaneda, and the entire Staff at Spine & Orthopaedic Institute for the First Class Care and Professionalism they provided to me and my family. I believe God led them in the medical field for their willingness to help people, and to see thier patients live a pain free life. I Truly feel Dr.Cyr and Eloy Castaneda cared personally about how I felt, and what would be best for me. Never once did they come off as being an uptight rude person. With all the stress a physician usually encounters and all the long hours they put in, and time away from thier loved ones, They still showed the passion of wanting to comfort our worries. For this yall will always will be in my heart and prayers. May God Bless each and every one of you for all that yall do. Dr Steven J. Cyr and Eloy Castaneda Are the best spine and orthopedic surgeons in san antonio,tx....a special thanks to your families for supporting yall at what yall do!!!! cc: j.j. guerra. Poteet tx

-by J.J. Guerra

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Dr. Cyr and his entire staff gave my wife exceptional care from start to finish! I can't say enough about their knowledge of the profession and their wonderful bedside manner! Our nerves and fears were calmed and her surgery went extremely smooth. I would highly recommend Dr. Cyr to anyone having orthopedic trouble. His care and knowledge is amazing! He is definitely one of the top in his profession! A million THANKS to Dr. Cyr, Eloy, and the entire Spine and Orthopedic Staff!!!

-by Ray A.

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Mayo Clinic or no Mayo Clinic, Dr. Cyr is one of the finest physician’s I have been blessed to know! I'm no family member nor am I staff. I am an actual patient. A patient whom a doctor (Dr. M) threw away like yesterdays newspaper. Call it slander if you will but I call it being totally disabled at the age of 36. Dr. M sliced and diced my back 8 times. Every time looking into my naive eyes and saying to me and I quote "if I didn't believe this was the best thing for you I wouldn't have even brought it up". I've got witnesses!

After my 8th procedure, I awoke to terrible pain in the left thigh and leg more so even then the actual surgical area. I was told the pain would go away by Dr. M and was sent home by another physician whom I don’t believe I had ever met after 3 days. Dr. M wasn't on call after all it was the weekend!

A few months later, two I believe I receive a letter from Dr. M telling me he was no longer going to see Workers Comp. patients but he was going to refer me to a fellow co-worker who would take care of me. Not to be!!!! Everyone I was sent to eventually send me packing. An injury this old, 1991 to be exact, was too old and Dr. M had done too much to me. I recall on of "his fellow co-worker" saying to me 8 surgeries is 7too many for me to help you out at this point, and I don't see why Dr. M thinks anyone will take this case.

After years of suffering with tremendous pain and finding no one to help me I was told about Dr. Cyr. Though he couldn’t be my treating doctor because of his devotion to his country I had finally found a sympathetic ear. We followed each other for 2 year finally to have him see me as his patient through referral from my awesome and also sympathetic treating doctor Dr. Efrem Castillo.

By this time I had "severe iatrogenic scoliosis at L1-2 measuring approximately 25 degrees w/convexity to the left, flat back deformity and multiple disc collapse! I never had scoliosis before this. I know what it is and don't consider myself ignorant enough to not have known so.

Now I can only ambulate with a walker, take Morphine as well as many other Narcotics just for daily living. Note this is the way I came to Dr. Cyr after all that Dr. M had done to me.All this is well documented in my op. report. By the way the operation Dr. Cyr did took several hours and as much as I would have loved for it to have taken only 2 to 3 hours as had all my 8 previous surgeries I don't think it was possible at this point! Oh and by the way come to find out that I have an Avulsed L4 nerve and several lacerated root sleeves. This was never mentioned to me by Dr. M nor is it in they copy of my op. report, the last one he did when I woke up with all that left leg pain. Oh well call it a case of Bad Luck if you will or was it a case of Bad Doctoring? Neither Dr. Cyr nor any of his staff have to bad-mouth anyone about my case, I HAVE PLENTY TO SAY! Well all being said and done I have a much straighter back thanks to Dr. Cyr and Elloy Castaneda. I'm still not able to ambulate without a walker but it isn't like you can superglue and avulsed nerve together now can you? I will always have to take Narcotics for this problem.

At least I now know what happened to me. I also know that I have finally met a doctor who cares about his patients and not so much about monetary gain.

-by LD
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I thank you VERY much from the bottom of my heart your kindness, your encouragement & your professionalism. I came into your office with very little hope and you all took the time to talk me through and explain my films in detail to my understanding & knew before the films returned what the problem was.

Dr. Cyr, I appauld you and your staff in sceduling my appointments & my pre-op, surgery, and Post-op visit. I knew at the hospital & even more so at the 6 wk post-op visit that you all were a God sent. I saw the x-ray and how well tings were fused and time & care you provided to explain the same. My previous two fusions, I knew w/o being a doctor were not working. My first was in 2005 & second 2006 and never did I have the confidence in the surgery working like I have with you.

I imagine your ears are constantly ringing, because I tell everyone I see (whether I know them or not) that what the "other" so called nuero-surgeon couldn't do in 4 years and two surgeries & many intervention in between, you accoplished in 6 weeks through surgery.

My greatest gratitude to you. I will recommend you to anyone with any type of spinal injury. In fact, I have had one person that I recommened to you, already had her 1st appt and shares my same feelings.

The best to you and your endeavors. I actually knew you were a God sent because I pick you out of the phone book because of your address (Spurs Lane), and I love my Spurs. However, little did I know loving my Spurs would bring such a blessing. Thanks again.

-by ddliva
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I wanted to post a review for Dr. Cyr and Eloy Castaneda Dr. Niilson and the staff at the Spine & Orthopaedic Institute. I have suffered from migraines for over 8 years. I have been on every drug known including depression meds, anxiety meds, muscle relaxers, and numerous more with no relief.

On my first visit in comes Eloy with a smile so bright and twinkling eyes and stated don't worry we will find out what is wrong and we will make you better... On my second or so visit I met with Eloy and Dr. Steven Cyr, wow, what could I say but I know you will help me.....I have been migraine free for months now, I think the ease and the attitude of the staff allows patients to go in and for once not feel stressed out.........

I have and will recommend Eloy and Dr. Cyr to my friends or even people on the street. For once I have met a medical staff who cares about you not the almighty $$$$$$$$....I appreciate the care you have given not only myself but my sister.. to Eloy, Dr. Cyr, Stephanie, Norma, Jennifer, Mannie and Bryan!! Thanks and all my love to you all!

-by linda w
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I wanted to leave a few words about my medical care at SA Spine and Orthopedic Clinic!! I have not had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Cyr yet but have had nothing but the best of care under Eloy Castaneda! The very first thing you notice about him is his smile and his genuine care for you as his patient! He unlike most physicians actually sat and listened to my descriptions of my injuries and pain after a MVA. I had gone through months of physical therapy, which was a waste of time, co pays and insurance money (my opinion of course). He right away had xrays ordered and determined that i indeed had an injury that no one else took the time to try and identify! He's always available for consult, always shows genuine interest and desire to help his patients. His office staff has the same great attitudes. Nothing like walking into an office where they see hundreds of patients, and they call you by name..every single time! I actually look forward to going to my appointments with Eloy! You leave there with a pep in your step! Don't let what one nasty person sway you from getting the best spine or orthpaedic care thats available to you ; either with Eloy, Dr. Cyr or Dr. Niilson. You wont be disappointed! I have the uptmost respect and appreciation for your concern and are Eloy, Stephanie, Norma, Jennifer,Mannie and Bryan!! Thanks and love to you all! CH

-by hack62
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Just want to send you a BIG THANK YOU for all that you have done for Don and me. You’ve gone beyond the call of duty to ensure that Don has received beyond the best care and an excellent outcome. I don’t know how else to thank you besides the best way that I know; and that is telling you all thank you from my heart and soul. You’re truly God Sent and Angels.

Dr. Cyr (Steven) the hands and mind that God gave you have touched Don and our lives. Because of you he will be once again able to administer to animals. By doing this we will be able to finally open our petting farm which will be used to help children and adults with disabilities. We also want to thank your wife and kids for the time that you are away from them to care for your patients (extended family). There have been several times that you spent more time with us than you did with your immediate family.

Eloy your attitude is great and your smile and words can warm the heart. I’m glad that Don is out of the hospital the only thing I miss about the hospital is the talks that we had and the comfort you were able to provide to me during Don’s hospital stay. The numerous hours you spent with us will not be forgotten. Stephanie, Meowy and Fraidy are lucky to have you in their lives.

Janivee thank you for taking your job so seriously and going the extra miles to Don and I had everything in order. Without your diligence Don wouldn’t have gotten so far.

Jennifer, Norma and Manny thanks for your support and all the time you’ve spent with us.

Brian how can anyone forget Brian. You’re NUTS and we love you for it. Seeing Don laughing on 2/29/08 almost brought tears to my eyes. You know how long he was in tremendous pain and just wasn’t a happy camper. Your antics are just what Don needed.

Thanks again so much. God has touched each of you in such a special way.

-by don.abram92
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I heartedly recommend the medical office of San Antonio Spine & Orthopedic Institute. I can do this, with conviction, because I was successfully treated for a serious lower spine injury. Initially, my injury was misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated by a local ‘occupational injury clinic’, which lead to further injury. Upon discovery, they immediately referred me to San Antonio Spine & Orthopedic Institute. My first visit convinced me that I was in the right place: Dr Castenada straight away knew, by the symptoms I described, what the problem was. He sent me for a MRI, which exactly confirmed his diagnosis. From that point forward I confidently knew I was going to get the best possible medical treatment for the injury. Walking, standing or lying down, for prolonged periods, prior to surgery was impossible. Now, 10 months post surgery, I am almost back to the person I was before the injury. My recovery rate has been far faster than the established estimates for my type of injury. I attribute this success to the technical skills of Dr Steven Cyr. Additionally, intangibles such as dedication, compassion, commitment, understanding and communication, for both the patient and their family are unexcelled. These accolades are not limited to the Doctors, but also include the support staff of the Institute. I am a very appreciative man.

-by yahoo user
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I would like to speak in behalf of dr.cyr i never met a doctor that cares so much for his patients like he does. God blessed im with a great gift!and dr.cyr usesthat gift to give others a better chances in life.back in sept 2007 i had a three level fusion dr.cyr took the time and spoke to each of my family members and explained the difficult sugery.all my family embraced dr.cyr and put their faith in god,that a moment i will never forget dr.cyr told me i will not let anything happen to you.you are part of our family what doctor tearts you like a family member,not many now a days.so how dare any one put him down he is an angel that is doing god's work.he has mine and my family respect and blessing.i would trust him with my life again!thank you dr.cyr.eloy and all your staff i wouldn't have made it without you all!i will be praying for you keep doing the work god wants you to do.

-by MERIDA CHARLES
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Have had only two visits with this facility. being a very depressed person, eloy was able to make me laughl,even if it was for a while!

The staff there is great, every time i call or go in for an appt, im greeted with a smile. there should more people like that in this profession,

-by ANGELINA MARINEZ
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Dr. Steven Cyr, Eloy, Stephanie, Jennifer, Norma, Brian, etc. are great. We have never felt this way about a doctor before. We do have favorites and doctors we would recommend; but, none of them is even close to how we feel about Dr. Cyr. When you listen to the recorded message on his phone it states that they treat you like family. Well, I thought about this. They treated us better than family. A family you can't choose, friends you can. We feel that the lord has sent a us a friend. This friends was given the gift and talent to change people’s lives. He is part angel, part magician. Other doctors didn't want to even attempt the difficult surgery; they also didn't even look at test to determine that without surgery my husband would be crippled. Dr. Cyr and Eloy noticed this immediately. They also told us what to watch for. My husband started having some of the symptoms that were discussed with us. Turned out his first surgery was an emergency. Dr. Cyr and Eloy arranged to have the surgery performed on a weekend. They assembled all the staff at the hospital and made sure he was cared for in the most stringent way. Did I mention he is an angel? If you need to consult about any Spine or Orthopedic issue I wouldn't proceed without first meeting Dr. Cyr and his team. Oh yeah, my husband is doing much better and is awaiting his second surgery which will not be as complicated as the first. (Still is risky.) We trust this man so much. Another thing is Dr. Cyr's brother Mike is also an outstanding individual. He handles medical equipment. Mike knew that we needed the equipment and it was close to a holiday. The company that our insurance covers couldn't be reached due to holidays. You know what Mike did. He left his and Steven's mother’s birthday party and drove to our house with the equipment my husband needed. The are angels and Dr. Cyr and Eloy are two of them.

-by Judy
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This is a great doctor. I wouldn't trust anyone else with my husband's care. His staff was very helpful and friendly.

-by a Yahoo! Local User
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Dr. Cyr, i have never met a doctor that took so much time with his patients like you and Eloy do. You both made me feel relaxed and confident that I was going to be taken care of. When I was facing a very long and major surgery you took the time to explain every detail, risk and advantage to me and my family. You knew I was scared and not real sure what to do but, with your explaination I had no doubt that this was going to be the right thing to do. When I had my first visit to your office both of you said that you would treat me like family and that has been exactly how I have felt the entire time. I am almost 3 months out from my surgery. I am still having some problems and I know I have a VERY long rode still ahead but, I know that the both of you will walk me through every step along the way and along with both of you and your staff I know I will be 100% one of these days. Thank you all, I know I could not have done this without you. God has blessed all of you with a very special gift and any patient would be lucky to have a physician like you!! Love you all!!!!!

-by jburtonmarion
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Dr. Cyr, miracle worker: I have has back pain and terrible migraines forn ten years. I have been to many doctors and spinal surgeons who have all dismissed me. Dr. Cyr and staff took one look at my MRI's and spotted the problem. I am 4 months out of surgery and am doing great. Thank you!

-by Lee K
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I too have had terrible migraines for years with persistent neck pain all other doctors told me it was due to stress and just gave me all sorts of medications. After visiting with Eloy one afternoon about a herniated disk in my lower back I happened to mention my symptoms to him. He immediately sent me for an MRI of my neck and found that I have 2 herniated disks in my neck. Thank you Eloy for taking the time to actually perform tests before assuming my headaches and neck pain were due to a common ailment andnot treating me as other doctors have by treating me like I was making my symptoms up or exaggerating them.

-by Monica E

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