I have been a patient of Dr. Sacks for about 25 years, first from several cancer surgeries that resulted in removal of most of my back, left shoulder muscle, then from over 15 years ago with a double compound cervical set of fractures at C2-C3 and C6-C7. I have NEVER asked for narcotics, nor arrived at his office expecting I knew what medications I needed or wanted. YET, I have ALWAYS been prescribed what Dr. Sacks, after examinations, and sometimes after sending me to neurologists for consultations, has prescribed for me, including narcotics WHEN NEEDED, along with nerve block injections. I do have significant pain and have had 4 surgeries for a Spinal Cord Simulator implant. I KNOW from decades of seeing Dr. Sacks that all TOO OFTEN people who I meet or see in the waiting area either don't look like they are in pain, or even talk about what appear to be non-existent or minimal issues, and want to see Dr. Sacks to get their hands on narcotics. A few years ago I met a man while sitting in the waiting area who told me he was seeing Dr. Sacks because his own, regular pain management doctor was out of town. I thought this was odd, as I know from Dr. Sacks and several of my other doctors, including neurologists & surgeons, that when they are out of town or otherwise not available, they ALL have an "on call" doctor who covers them and have access to the patients' medical records, along with the ability to reach the doctor directly if necessary. This man said his doctor was out of town for another 8 days. I see Dr. Sacks every other week, so I was surprised when this same man was back two weeks later, supposedly when his own doctor would have been back in town. This "patient" told me, and another patient sitting in the waiting room, that Dr. Sacks HAD prescribed him medications two weeks earlier and this patient was back seeking more. This patient was taken in and seen before me. When I was called into the exam room next to Dr. Sacks consultation office room, I could hear this "patient" yelling and apparently upset that Dr. Sacks told him he would not refill the narcotic again. Dr. Sacks office is on the 3rd floor, the lobby on the 1st floor has a café on the Santa Monica Blvd. side. When I went in the café to get a sandwich I saw this "patient". He approached me and complained that Dr. Sacks not only would NOT refill the narcotic, but that Dr. Sacks told the man that he needed to return to his own pain management doctor (who was supposed to be back in town by then) to get any further narcotics. This man was very upset and angry that Dr. Sacks "had wasted" his time trying to be treated and get medications. It is unfortunate that some "patients" show up expecting or demanding to get narcotics, get angry and upset if they are refused and then take to sites like Yelp and others to bad mouth a medical provider. Again, I have NEVER shown up expecting or demanding to get a narcotic or other drug that I either wanted/thought I should get or one that was advertised on TV when the TV ad says "ask your doctor" if drug XYZ is right for you. As someone else here posted, if you want a "warm and fuzzy" doctor to hold your hand, baby you and placate you, you should look for another doctor. Dr. Sacks is a very busy doctor, but has always taken care of my medical needs. read more

Dr. Gerald Sacks has been seeing my mother for over a year and half now. When she first came into his office she had tremendous lower back and leg pain. It took some time but those lower back and leg pains are virtually gone. He sees my mom every two weeks and gives her regular booster shots to numb the pain and prescribed her 3 medications that have done wonders for my mom and her nerve pain. On the very first day he was able to figure out that she had nerve damage and put her on the correct medication right away. Once the proper adjustments were made she was set with all of her medication. She has made great progress since they initial appointment and truly views Dr. Sacks as one of her most important and caring doctors. He also gave her an epidural shot that has really helped her back pains for better long term recovery. Dr. Sacks was referred to us by Dr. Amy C. Chen of the UCLA network who is a WONDERFUL MD so we take her opinion very seriously. Dr. Gerald Sacks is truly a "Pain Management Specialist" and he has done a fantastic job of helping take away my mothers pain. My mom has had some other health issues not related to Dr. Sacks but when she was in the hospital for about a week he came by and visited her every day to see how she was doing and progressing. Do not believe the negative reviews, Dr. Sacks does care about his patients. He is very efficient and professional when it comes to each of his patients and their prescriptions and needs. I highly recommend Dr. Gerald Sacks if you are looking for a doctor with tremendous experience of over 35+ years, who will target your central pain needs and help you better live your life as close to pain free as possible. His staff is very friendly and they are diligent in making sure appointments are made and kept so you can get the medical service you deserve. Dr. Sacks has truly been a revelation for my mother and I highly recommend his office for all of your pain management needs. Give his office a call today, he accepts Medicare and most insurances I believe and you won't be disappointed! Ask for Sandra she is lovely and will assist you with whatever you need, call today! read more

The Doctor's Doctor. I was guided to Dr Sacks by my friend who is an anesthesiologist and has had 9 spine surgeries himself. Pain doctors are also anesthesiologists, and Dr Sacks was also my friends pain doctor. So I got "the doctor's doctor", a good recommendation in my book. Dr Sacks is a stellar pain management Doctor. I should know, with what I have gone through, and continue to go through. I have a syndrome that causes a never-ending series of issues and surgeries, most of them very painful. I've lost count of the surgeries including multiple joint replacements, etc, except the spinal ones, which is at 12 (and counting). Unfortunately, I've had a lot of different pain management doctors, so I have a lot of doctors to compare. Dr Sacks is by far the BEST pain doctor I've seen. Dr Sacks pulled me through the worst of a horrible string of medical events and surgeries. I likely wouldn't have made it through all this without his help. He has many patients with truly awful pain issues, including many cancer patients. Dr Sacks knows exactly what he is doing. It seems he knows what's going on just by looking at me or something. If my pain was increasing or decreasing he knew it and always adjusted any medication accordingly, and always exactly what I need. He managed my medication in the hospital with each surgery and kept me as comfortable as anyone could. He's the best. He's a direct, no-nonsense doctor. He sizes things up quickly, his mind works fast, and he doesn't waste time, which I really like. He cuts to the chase and says it like it is. He doesn't come across as warm and fuzzy at first, but he is truly compassionate and cares about his patients. I continue to gain respect for him over the years of him helping me. I wouldn't recommend him if you're seeking drugs you don't need though, he would see through that in an instant. Go somewhere else for that. Any one star reviews are probably for that reason. (No, he's not "cash only".) If you need help, he's your guy, and you'll be lucky to have him as your doctor. read more

I was connected to Dr. Sacks for pain management after a year and a half of intractable, chronic pain (post-MVA) that culminated in brain and spine surgery. The eighteen months prior to surgery were filled with medical appointments that provided little to no insight and left me feeling increasingly hopeless, disregarded, or worse. It is with this insight and experience that I can confidently say that being under Dr. Sacks' care has been a life-changing experience. In addition to being extraordinarily knowledgeable and well-read in pain management (and EDS, and chiari malformation!), he is empathetic, discerning, and kind. It's obvious that he is passionate about his work, and enjoys being an advocate and ally to his patients. If you are reading this, I highly encourage you to make an appointment with him. He is an exemplary physician and an invaluable resource for chronic pain management. It is also worth noting that his office staff is attentive and friendly, and actively maintain a safe environment for immunocompromised patients, which speaks to their collective commitment to providing the highest level of patient care. Thank you, Dr. Sacks (and team)! I'm forever grateful for your commitment to my health. read more

Dr. Sacks continues to amaze me with the resourcefulness and knowledge he brings to a case of intractable pain. I VERY STRONGLY recommend Dr. Sacks to any patient dealing with complex pain or difficult-to-manage pain. If you are a DRUG SEEKER - go somewhere else. You will go away angry and be one of those people writing a negative review. Dr. Sacks refuses to pay Yelp to keep the negative reviews at the bottom. They hold businesses hostage with their policies, but some people have the principles to refuse to bend to blackmail. If you have a real pain problem and want to put in the work to manage your pain and find a real life again, make an appointment with Dr. Sacks. Don't expect a psychologist, he is a very matter-of-fact doctor. He isn't going to hold your hand while you cry. He is going to rapidly absorb all the information available, process it, and provide a treatment program. Your feedback is very important, as is your commitment to take all your medication and work at managing your pain. After almost 25 years of dealing with intractable pain, I am passionate about putting in the effort to have a real life. You will not find a better partner in finding solutions for your pain. read more

Dr. Gerald Sacks has been my Doctor for pain management for 2 years now since my complicated 4th. back surgery, over 6 hours long..The pain was severe and incredible for almost 7 weeks with essentially no relief from the pain medicines from 2 other doctors. While in hospital at St. Johns Providence Medical Center 7 weeks post-operatively, Dr. Sacks took over and almost immediately my pain was controlled and manageable under his direction. Since then the back and leg pain management under Dr. Sacks care has continued to be controlled so that I am not an invalid and can continue to enjoy life. In my experience having gone through 4 back operations, it is rare to find a doctor with Dr. Sacks combination of expertise in diagnosis, quick institution of proper and accurate pain management protocols with excellent resolution of symptoms. His combination of expertise and experience is beyond those of other Doctors I have encountered for my problem. He is personable, friendly, caring and efficient at the same time, as is his office. I count my self lucky to have him as my doctor and would certainly recommend him highly to those patients who need his help. read more

Dr. Sacks is far and away the best doctor I've ever seen for anything. I started seeing him in the fall of 2024 for debilitating migraines that had progressively worsened throughout the year. From the getgo, Dr. Sacks took the time to learn my medical history and get to know me not just as a patient, but also as a person, and worked both quickly and diligently with me to come up with an appropriate plan, which has proved wildly successful. Since then, I've experienced life-changing relief that has made me tremendously more functional day to day, and I continue to improve with the passing months. And Dr. Sacks has never hesitated to engage in the requisite back and forth with my insurer to ensure that I obtain coverage for my medications, and he is continuously adaptable to my availability. Simply put, Dr. Sacks is the commensurate doctor--deeply knowledgeable, very attentive, highly flexible to patient needs and availability, incredibly considerate of patient perspective, and a fierce patient advocate. I feel indescribably lucky to be in Dr. Sacks's care. read more

Dr Sacks truly cares about the quality of life of his patients by doing everything he can to minimise their pain. My regular pain management doctor would not help me with post surgery pain on several instances. Dr Sacks is the only person who would help me through. I have an extremely complex case due to the fact I have a spinal cord injury on top of degenerative disc disease and many other complications. Many people don't understand that opioids aren't always the right way to manage pain. It takes careful evaluation of the source of pain to determine which type of analgesics, or other modalities are appropriate. Dr Sacks is fantastically thorough, and always on top of his patients case. You never have to worry if your medication refills will be sent on time, and Dr Sacks has a wealth of resources to help you navigate through your journey such as referrals to other doctors who may be needed to coordinate a comprehensive treatment plan I am truly grateful that Dr Sacks is someone I can always depend on. read more

I am a long-term patient of Dr. Sacks after multiple back surgeries that, while "fixing" my ruptured discs, left me with "failed back surgery syndrome." Dr. Sacks has helped me resume normal functionality without pain meds or sleep meds. In fact, while managing my pain with twice-monthly shots, he also helped me ditch the sleep meds that a previous provider prescribed. I haven't taken any meds in well over a decade. Dr. Sacks is outstanding in placing my trigger-point injections and, when needed for surges in pain like after a car accident, also provides very helpful epidurals. In fact, I suffered a slip and fall recently which severely sprained my wrist and Dr. Sacks pivoted to treat that with shots and physical therapy. FWIW, I haven't taken any pain or sleep meds in more than a decade. The office is well-organized and efficiently scheduled so I almost never have to wait, either. Dr. Sacks is a straight shooter who gets my strongest recommendation. read more

I have been seeing Dr Sacks for 4 years now, and he has provided excellent care. I am not someone who is likes to be on medications, and Dr Sacks has worked with me to get the pain under control with minimal use of pain meds. When I have a pain flair up, he has consistently and successfully helped me to quickly knock back the pain and move on with my life. After four years of seeing Dr Sacks, I feel much more in control of the pain cycles I experience. The episodes are far fewer, and when they do occur, they are quickly managed. I am extremely grateful to have found Dr Sacks and to have him as a part of my care team. I am also compelled to mention his amazing office staff. They always greet me with a smile and have been very kind, helpful and caring when I am in the office. When you experience pain, you want someone who is knowledgeable and capable of helping you get relief. Doctor has been that and more. I highly recommend Dr Sacks and his wonder staff. read more

A strong recommendation for Dr. Gerald Sacks Facing a second major spinal surgery in 10 months, I asked my neurosurgeon to recommend a pain specialist. After the first surgery my pain was not controlled. In part due to the side effects and/or the inadequacy of the drugs I was given. My surgeon recommended Dr. Sacks for the second surgery. Dr. Sacks knows the most effective drugs available. He used a combination of drugs to prepare my body for surgery, to be administered immediately after surgery, to be given during my hospital stay and to take at home. I had excellent pain control with few side effects. I had a decent appetite, slept well and was, given the situation, reasonably clear -headed. Dr. Sacks closely monitors and adjusts medications. The drugs were greatly reduced or stopped in a relatively short period of time. Words cannot express how grateful I am for Dr. Sacks' close attention and expertise. read more

My Mother was referred to Dr. Sacks from her Internist for her pain management. She was in a lot of back and leg pain and other issues related to her age (95). Under his care, her pain was managed with his careful assessment of her issues and the different options for pain relief. He was extremely thorough and provided her with excellent care, great follow ups in office and then tele-health follow ups, as her mobility diminished. The office was also extremely efficient, and his office staff (Melissa) was also kind and compassionate and we never had to wait. Once in the office, Mom was seen right away, they were always on time, and always checked in with her whole health and well-being. It was a real blessing that we were referred to Dr Sacks as his expertise helped give great physical and emotional comfort. I highly recommend anyone suffering from chronic pain to consider putting yourself in his capable hands! read more

After a botched wrist surgery, I was living with excruciating pain and struggling with depression. I couldn't engage in any of the activities I once loved, and it felt like no one had answers. Dr. Sacks was the fourth pain management specialist I saw--and finally, someone who truly made a difference. From my very first visit, Dr. Sacks took the time to listen and carefully assess my situation. He created a treatment plan that actually brought my pain under control and gave me some of my life back. I can't overstate how much that meant to me. His office runs like a well-oiled machine--efficient, respectful, and always professional. The staff is courteous and organized, and I've always felt supported and heard during each visit. If you're dealing with chronic pain and feeling like you're out of options, I highly recommend Dr. Sacks. He was a turning point in my recovery, and I'm incredibly grateful for his care. read more

I went at the recommendation of a friend for long-term, chronic spinal stenosis and complications related to orthopedic surgery. Dr. S is the real deal and knows what he is doing. This is a busy office with a lot of seemingly long-term patients with severe, chronic conditions which, unfortunately, seems to describe me as well. I wish I didn't need the help, but Dr. S. is capable and focused on what my needs are, and there's a lot to be said to that, given that I have been threw a variety of other types of treatments, of which acupuncture works, but nothing else. I'm relatively new here, but so far, it's a 5-star keeper. FWIW, my problems are primarily with my back and sciatic. Not sure how common that is, but thought I'd mention it. read more

Dr. Sacks has given me my life back. I've been dealing with neurological pain for over a year. (During Covid...) After seeing more doctors and specialists than I can count, and trying more medications and therapies that didn't work, he created a plan that has dramatically reduced my pain. It has been a game changer. He listens to me, prescribes only what is necessary, and discusses with me in an honest no BS way that is clear and direct. It's been and continues to be a gradual process and he has been there every step of the way. I am very grateful. Additionally, his staff have been nothing but professional and responsive. 5 STARS. read more

Doctor Sacks is one in a million! He is extremely knowledgeable and he truly cares about his patients. He is encouraging and works with you to find the best possible treatment(s). When I first started seeing Dr. Sacks (about 6 years ago), my sciatica was debilitating. With the proper medication and his help finding the right type of physical therapy, I am now back to new with only a very small dose of medication. Dr. Sacks always keeps an open line of communication and makes it very easy to work with all professionals tending to your health. I am forever grateful for Dr. Sacks amazing care and I highly recommend him. read more

Dr Sacks has been my doctor for more than 20 years. He follows the law. Educates himself on new meds and treatments. Is fair and generous with samples. His care helped me stay active in my life and work. I was a RN in acute care for 30 years. I met him at Century City Hospital on the Special Care Unit. I learned about his specialty in managing pain; people with Cancer, Aids, Muscle-skeletal diseases like Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Limited mobility, Neurapathy, et al. He's honest and will help you. Has a great staff. May he stay in practice for many years to come. read more

I have been going to Doctor Sacks for approximately 10 years. He is very smart, innovative, and has a caring manner. I suffered from chronic stomach pain and no one else was able to help me. Since coming to Doctor Sacks I have not had any pain over the last 9 years. He works incredibly hard with very long hours and is flexible with scheduling.. in addition he has an amazing office staff that has been with him for many many years. If you need someone that can help make your life better if you are suffering, I highly recommend Doctor Sacks. read more

My husband saw Dr. Sacks for a long-term chronic sports-related injury and kept his nagging pain under control and at-bay until surgery was no longer optional, followed with a lengthy recovery period, including physical therapy and pain management. Fast forward three years and my husband has his life back, not 100%, but vastly more functional than before neighbors referred us to this clinic. The key was Dr. Sacks' measured stewardship and attentive trigger points. Five stars is well-deserved. read more