As a 28yr old male, I've have lower back pain for as long as I can remember. I grew up playing soccer my whole entire life in high school as well as at the collegiate level. I played goalie and was constantly diving around breaking down my body. In January 2016, I was shoveling snow and felt pain in my lower back immediately afterwards. I thought "Oh no big deal, this pain comes and goes all the time." So I continued playing soccer, continued lifting 2-3 times a day. However, this time the pain was different. It didn't go away and got progressively worse. I went to a Spine Specialist who sent me for an MRI. I had herniated discs at L4-L5 and L5-S1 so the Dr. suggested Physical Therapy. PT was great at first, but then I plateaued and things started to get worse again. I decided to go to a Pain Management Dr instead of the PT. I was getting Nerve Root Blockers and Epidurals regularly but nothing was doing the trick. Fast-forward to June 2017, my wife and I decided that it was time to explore surgical options since we are expecting a baby November 2017. I saw multiple Drs and had multiple opinions but no one compared to Dr. Goldstein and his staff at NYU/Seaport Orthopedics. From scheduling the surgery, to the pre-op and post-op care, I never felt like I was going through anything alone. The staff was always there to answer any questions I had, whenever I had them. Dr. Goldstein thought the best surgery for my condition would be a microlumbar discectomy at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels. Prior to surgery, my body looked like the letter "S" when I was standing straight up. I had an overabundance of sciatica pain and limped when I walked. I am currently 4 weeks out post-surgery and am feeling great. All of the sciatica pain I had prior to the surgery is completely gone and I am able to stand straight and walk without limping. I cannot thank Dr. Goldstein and his team enough for everything that they have done for me and my family. They seriously gave me my life back. Because of them, I will be able to run around with my little munchkin a year and a half from now and I am forever grateful for that. read more

PLEASE READ. It's long, but important. Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein is rude, arrogant, and quick to leave the examining room, believing his is the only opinion that matters. He does NOT explain WHY he can't help you, just that he can't and won't. I don't care what his credentials are. Doctors should not treat patients in this manner. The first words out of his mouth the first time I saw him were "What do you want ME to do for you?", as if to say "Why are you bothering me?" That was 21 months ago. I did the proper PT and pain management and nearly two years later was back in his office. I didn't even realize it was the same doctor until I recognized the name of his practice, SEAPORT ORTHOPEDICS, on my caller ID. It feels like a fly-by-night operation. I made the appointment anyway as I was in excruciating pain. Guess what the FIRST THING he said to me, 21 months later? "What do you want ME to do for you?!" The same exact words. I joked with my wife in previous days that he might say this. I was stunned. He indeed looked as if I was again bothering him. A long pause followed. My wife and I just stared at him. Is this prick THAT arrogant? The answer is yes. Stay away if you want to keep your dignity. Seek a better surgeon. A different surgeon. Anyone. I beg you. I told Dr. Goldstein that I was taken aback by his curtness. He looked at me as if he didn't understand. The thing is: I don't WANT surgery, but I would like a surgeon to explain WHY he doesn't think surgery is an option. The MRI is right there on his computer. He could've turned and pointed to some images, given his assessment and explained why. He did not. He is a fake. I had a lumbar fusion in 2007 and a cervical fusion in 2012. Both surgeons were marvelous. Dr. Goldstein doesn't even compare. read more

First, Dr. Goldstein was polite with a professional manner. He asked detailed questions and ordered diagnostic tests immediately. He arrived at a diagnosis and recommended a surgery. I felt confident in his assessment and proceeded with the surgery. The surgery was a major lower-back surgery that included replacing the lower lumbar disk between the fourth & fifth vertebrae, and a fusion of the spine. This was both a post & anterior surgery procedure. Dr. Goldstein performed the surgery on January 7th, 2014 along with Dr. Nalbandian (Vascular surgeon). I was in the hospital for 4 days (Tuesday to Friday). There was normal post-operative discomfort, but was controlled with medication. I returned to work (office) on Monday, Jan 27th, and was able to fly to San Francisco on Feb. 3rd. My experience was excellent, everything Dr. Goldstein told me was accurate, I feel great, my back pain is gone, the Hosp. for Jt. Disease was excellent, and I would highly recommend Jeff Goldstein. I would tell a friend, don't delay...anyone living with severe back pain knows its depressing and effects every aspect of your life. I wish I had done this sooner, yes, short term after surgery the incision pain stinks but it passes pretty quickly, maybe 2 weeks. I could tell almost immediately that my back pain was gone. I would recommend any close friend or family member to see Dr. Goldstein. At my post-surgery visit (about 5 weeks out), Dr. Goldstein told me to "keep smiling", because I was the whole time I sat with him. To Dr. G., a sincere THANK YOU! read more

Dr. Goldstein performed a revision surgery on me 7 weeks ago, and I highly, highly suggest him! My first surgery was 8 years ago in Virginia, for two herniated disks in my lower lumbar. I wasn't ordered to do any physical therapy after the operation and I'm not sure I healed correctly, hence this revision surgery. I started having severe leg pain again this past January and (by a miracle) found Dr. Goldstein's name online. After we confirmed I had re-herniatd two disks, we agreed that I should try physical therapy before resorting to an invasive procedure. After four months of therapy and no relief, we decided to perform the surgery. Notice that I'm saying "we"? That's because you will always be discussing your options with Dr. Goldstein, instead of being told exactly what to do. He is patient, answers questions thoroughly, and never makes you feel like he's rushing through appointments. He really just seems like a genuinely good guy! The first week after my surgery was quite painful (note that I had a revision surgery, not an initial microdisectomy) but my pain has been getting better exponentially since then. Dr. Goldstein prescribed physical therapy and I feel that has been helping as well. Now, after 7 weeks, I'm virtually pain-free and am looking forward to slowly getting back in the gym and reclaiming my life. Thanks, Dr. Goldstein! read more

After months and months and months of suffering the pain was so bad I literally would cry myself to sleep at night hoping for even an hour of relief. 3-4-5 Advil, physical therapy, a painful epidural shot and acupuncture nothing helped. The pain was just awful. I was unable to function. My daughter did some research and found Dr. Goldstein. Dr. Goldstein did not beat around the bush, if you want relief there is only one option back decompression surgery. The pain was so bad at this point I would have agreed to anything. My surgery was scheduled at NYU Langone Orthopedic Hospital two weeks later. The surgery was a success. The hospital staff was kind and the nurses were amazing. I was on pain medication around the clock but I already knew this pain was different from my pre-surgery agony. This pain was more of a tired numbness. I was released from the hospital about 4 days later. My first week home was hard. I felt stiff and tired. I would say it took about three weeks before I started feeling myself again. I believe with all my heart that I shouldn't have waited so long to have the surgery. I should never have let the pain get so bad. This surgery bought me back to life. Thank you Dr. Goldstein! read more

When I went to see Dr. Goldstein after months of pain management which was no longer bringing any relief, I had the following diagnosis: High Grade spinal stenosis with lumbar spondylolisthesis - degenerative disc changes at L5-S1 - mobile grade 2 spondylolisthesis of L 4 on L5 with disc space narrowing L5-S1 - 2/5 right ankle dorsiflexion and no EHL strength. On 10/26/12 at NYU HJD I had circumferential decompression and fusion L4-5. Before surgery, if I remember correctly I met with Dr. Goldstein at least twice in his office and we thoroughly discussed my condition, benefits adn risks of surgery, expectations following surgery, etc. Dr. Goldstein answered all of my questions thoroughly. The day of my surgery we spoke briefly as I was being prepped. Immediately following surgery the excrutiating pain was gone and the process of healing and rehabilitation began. I was visited by Dr. Goldstein or his staff daily and any questions and/or concerns wer addressed promptly. I would recommend Dr. Goldstein to anyone experiencing spine problems. In fact, I have already given his contact information to a friend who has a loved one with spine issues similar to mine pre-surgery. read more

Had a discectomy and fusion between C4-5 and - 2 months out - feel great. The injury was unusual in that there was a lot of inflammation lower down the spine (around C7-8) that caused numbness in my left hand and leg. All symptoms are now gone. As a side note, the damage around C4-5 was found during surgery to be even worse than anticipated from 2 MRIs and X-rays - one bone spur had even punctured the sleeve of the spinal cord. I was in great pain. All to say that even with this relatively unusual injury, Dr Goldstein was excellent: he anticipated the stages of recovery accurately (there were no surprises); I was back at work within 8 days - even took a 3.5 train ride the day I was released from the hospital. I was on morphine for two days (including the day of the surgery), Percocets for two days and then regular aspirin for a few days. It still seems miraculous to me. Not that I have any experience with other orthopedic surgeons, but this guy is excellent - exactly what you'd want in a surgeon. His staff is friendly and helpful, and my experience at NYU Hospital was as good as it gets (I recommend the orange jello). 6 stars. read more

I initially met Dr. Goldstein back in 2007- I went to see him because I had severe lower back pain. Back then, Dr. Goldstein stated I was not a candidate for surgery and suggested that I try pain management and/or physical therapy for relief. He recommended that when pain management and /or physical therapy no longer helped, to come back to see him. I returned to see Dr. Goldstein in late 2011 with low back pain and shooting pains in my thigh and groin area. After having a number of epidural injections from his pain management staff, Dr. Goldstein decided it was time to performed laminectomy surgery in August 2012. I was up and walking without pain the very next day in the hospital, and I continue to reap the benefits of the surgery. I would recommend Dr. Goldstein to anyone who is looking for an honest surgeon, who tells it like it is. No false expectations, and not just looking to cut to make a buck. Happy to be out of Pain, Charles L Brooklyn, NY read more

I went from beng a professional athlete in so much pain I could no longer compete, to an athlete with NO pain, even now 7 years later. I underwent minimally invasive Spinal Fusion surgery (kind of an oxymoron, right?) at the skilled hands of Dr. Goldstein. I am so grateful to have my moveable life back! He knew exactly the proper surgical approach that was necessary for me. He was also great at explaining everything before hand, as technical as I wanted to get, but never overly so. He did not oversell the outcome and it does take diligent, conscientious rehab after, but I am literally better than new, which exceeded my expectations. Before my surgery with Dr. Goldstein, I was gasping in pain just trying to roll out of the bed. My week now consists 3 power yoga classes 3-4 runs, and 3 weight training sessions. I think he is an extremely skilled surgeon, and would recommend him wholeheartedly. read more

Dr. Goldstein gave me my life back. He is an expert in his field, easy to talk to, compassionate and concerned with your well being. After performing two surgical procedures on my lumbar spine I felt better in the recovery room than I had in the three months prior. I look forward to doing the things I had been unable to do for some time- like cycling, kayaking, gardening, golfing and playing softball. Dr. Goldstein is not pushy in the least and listens to your concerns. He took the time to explain the procedure he recommended and answered all of my questions (there were many) patiently and completely. I had complete confidence in him and he came through for me in a very big way. I'm not sure who was beaming more during my return visit after the surgery- him or me. I found his support staff very helpful and easy to reach. Dr. Goldstein earns his reputation as a superstar! read more

It's hard to understand ruptured disc nerve pain unless you've had it. It can be what feels like life-endingly bad. I spent months trying to avoid surgery as the idea of having someone operate on your spine can be terrifying. Dr Goldstein is a total pro, he made me feel like he does about five discectomy's before he's even had coffee. He is also a spine surgeon who is so good, he teaches other spine surgeons. These are the kind of things I read about him before I saw him that encouraged me to go, and now I'm the other side of surgery (L5-S1 14mm rupture) and I have zero pain. It was amazing, I literally woke up and it was all gone. Scar is tiny too. I encourage everyone to always try less invasive things first (physio, epidurals etc) but if you do need surgery, I strongly recommend you book in a consult with Dr Goldstein. Good luck! read more

Two doctors recommend spinal fusion to repair my spinal stenosis and disk problems. I sought another opinion and I am extremely thankful I did. Dr. Goldstein said there was no reason to have my spine fused. He took the time to explain the procedure that was necessary and the reason I did not need a fusion. Back surgery in itself is freighting, add a diagnosis that requires a fusion and it becomes a life altering event. September 13th the day of my surgery, I had trouble walking into the hospital because of the pain running down both legs. The pain protocol Dr. Goldstein used made the surgery comfortable. I was back at work part time in two weeks, full time in three. I am pain free and loving every moment. I thanked him for his professionalism and kindness. I also thanked God for giving him the ability to be a brilliant surgeon. read more

Why is there not a "Zero Star" choice ? A visit to this office is by far the worst example of widespread incompetence. Having gone there for an examination and consultation, waiting 2 hours, was a total disaster. An In-Put clerk selected which CD's and Test Results were to be submitted to the doctor for his review. Upon learning the documents were never seen by J. Goldstein, I questioned him why this individual was made responsible for selecting Test Results and CD's, he responded "I don't know and will have to ask". His diagnosis was totally useless. This doctor is the type that contributes to negative aspects of the medical profession as well as 'Malpractice Lawsuits'. I do not know why he receives 'Royalties from Nuvasive", but perhaps his income is his " Number 1 Priority" read more

My daughter had suffered an injury to the pars on the L-5 vertebrae, and we had been told that she was in for a lifetime of pain management and restricted activities (bear in mind we live in an area with two hospitals affiliated with two leading universities). We were desperate, and as soon as we saw Dr. Goldstein we knew we had come to the right place. He was caring, courteous, extremely knowledgable and skilled, and the end result is a daughter whose life has been changed for the good. The Hospital For Joint Diseases was incredible (we took cupcakes to our floor when we went back to NYC for the follow-up), and is reflective of Dr. Goldstein's skill and professionalism. I cannot recommend him or his staff more highly. What happened with us is nothing short of a miracle. read more

I had an extruded disc and was in pain every day for four months. I went to pain management docs and physical therapy. Nothing really helped. Some of my many docs were against my having back surgery. Dr. Goldstein was fantastic. My initial pain was gone right after surgery. I still needed my cane and PT for 6-8 weeks, but surgery was the only thing that engendered progress. Without Dr. Goldstein, I would still be stooped over and in pain. He got me back to normal when none of the conservative treatments worked. My PT who was initially against surgery said I was lucky to have a great surgeon. She was that impressed with my progress. I would highly recommend Dr. Goldstein. Many seem to be against back surgery, but it was the best thing for me! read more

I suffered with spinal stenosis and severe sciatica for three years. I endured physical therapy and epidural injections with no relief. As a registered nurse, i was extremely hesitant to have back surgery. I researched Dr. Goldstein and found him to be top in his field. I had a diskectomy, hemilaminectomy and facetectomy. Three weeks later i am vacationing in atlantic city completely pain free. Prior to surgery, i could not walk two blocks without severe pain and having to bend over to relieve it. I am now walking up to three miles a day, pain free. He is a miracle worker. I can't believe how great i feel. He is a talented, knowledgeable surgeon. My only regret is that i didn't do this sooner. Insurance: Blue Cross / Blue Shield read more

I was in such pain with Spinal Stenosis, started in November this past year. I tried, acupuncture, shots, physical therapy; nothing helped. A therapist at my physical therapy center told me about Dr. Goldstein. I am so glad I decided on Dr. J. Goldstein as my surgeon. First rate, this is a surgeon who knows exactly what he is doing. It's been about a month, I am getting better each day. Walking without being hunched over, going and really enjoying physical therapy. If you suffer with stenosis, I highly recommend Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein. There is a plus here as well; you get to have NYU as your hospital. They couldn't do enough for me. I feel lucky and I want to share my experience with anyone who is in pain and fear. read more

I had a discectomy and fusion at C5-C6 after having right neck and shoulder pain for 2.5 years. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. Dr. Goldstein and his associates as well as the staff at Hospital for Joint Disease took very good care of me. I stayed in the hospital overnight and was up walking around the next day. I only took a week off from work as an Insurance Account Manager and was able to work from home the following week. I'm still getting PT for muscle strain from surgery but it is improving every day. I would recommend Dr. Goldstein to anyone with degenerative disc disease and other back pain issues. He is also very nice and doesn't treat you like a hypochondriac. read more

I had the good fortune that Dr. Goldstein was recommended to me when I needed lumbar back surgery. The recommendation came from a friend who had the same type of surgery with him seven years before and her back has been strong and pain free since. My own operation was done on 6/9/15 and I am so happy to have to have my life back. At my age of 75, I have gone from sciatica pain ridden days, to an active, productive life with very minimal discomfort in a matter of four months. I am very grateful to Dr. Goldstein for improving the quality of life in my golden years. He is not only an expert on his field and a superb surgeon, but personable and great human being. read more