He saved my life. I was in such a pain that i was about to kill myself. He is an angle. I have sent him a few friends that they are all very happy with him. read more

My experience with Dr. Jonathan Kuo was hands down the worst encounter I've ever had with a medical practitioner. On the day I visited the West Village office, his assistant did an intake with me and I immediately sensed something was wrong. Before I could even finish describing my symptoms and medical history, he started suggesting procedures - some of which he said were "diagnostic and therapeutic" as well as infusions, and various nerve blocks. He was rattling off so many treatments that I actually thought that this assistant was Dr. Kuo. But he wasn't. He soon went to get Dr. Kuo whom he said was "coming out of the OR." When he left the room I heard some chatter and looked through the door and saw another man (who turned out actually to be Dr. Kuo) getting dressed in OR gear to come in to speak with me -- in other words to make it look like he was "coming out of the OR." He sat down across from me and was very smug. As I began to once again try to explain my complex symptoms and medical history, he began bristling impatiently. Visibly uncomfortable, fidgeting, and crossing and re-crossing his legs, he then started rattling off various treatments he could do right away - plasma infusions and re-infusions, nerve blocks of various kinds - basically a longer version of the list that the assistant had rattled off. I reminded Dr. Kuo that he hadn't even examined or diagnosed me, and his response (like that of his assistant) was that all of his procedures were both diagnostic and therapeutic. He soon asked me what insurance I had and then started quoting out of pocket prices based on my insurance policy. I expressed tentative interest in one of the procedures he mentioned and, when he took note of my interest, he said, "I could even give it to you for a discount if you do it today." Dr. Kuo is clearly a medical salesman above all else and, while this is true of most physicians in our "health care system", his bold and unabashed manner in trying to sell me on whatever procedure would produce him the most cash was extremely disturbing, as well as unethical and unprofessional (to say the very least). When Dr. Kuo finally realized that I wasn't just going to bow down and accept some expensive and potentially life threatening procedure then and there, he got even more uncomfortable and aggressive, folding and recrossing his legs repeatedly; at one point when he got particularly agitated, farted twice, and got up out of his chair as if to walk out of the room. At that point, I actually got up and quickly made a B-line out of the chic waiting room and into the main area so that I could exit the facility. I just wanted to make my way to street level so I could breathe again. Horrible, horrible experience. And while the office is nice and "chic," it's also - like Dr. Kuo - all appearance, total artifice. It's also noteworthy that his entire operation is below ground and totally isolated which makes one feel as if they are in some kind of other-worldly bubble where Dr. Kuo and his staff are in full control. Pretty scary stuff, to say the least (and this is just a summary of what happened during my visit, and not a very detailed one at that). After running out of there, I immediately got in touch with my own primary care physician to tell him about this experience; he was also aghast and told me never to go back there and to caution others as well. My sincere advice to anyone even thinking of seeking treatment from Dr. Kuo (despite the positive reviews left here, which I find questionable) is to err on the side of caution and STAY AWAY FOR YOUR OWN HEALTH! This is not something to play around with.... read more

Horrendous experience. Dr jonathann Kuo is a boundary-less ego maniac. He's one of those doctors with a god complex. He used my illness as an excuse to line his own pockets. He asked me repeatedly for video testimonials and I declined repeatedly. He even offered to compensate me. I declined that offer, too. No woman should ever have to say no to a man more than once. Don't be fooled by the pretty office. He simply does not care. Stay away, you deserve better. read more

Dr. Kuo is not only the best at relieving pain, and MOST important doctor in my contacts - he IS the most caring doctor I have ever met! I was born with spinal problems, exasperated by several serious auto accidents, and such a bad fall on a cement floor - it required a hip replacement. Top that off with aging, arthritis and a physically demanding job. Sharp, dull, aching pains, with heaviness, numbness and tingling are how I'd describe my lower body on any given day before I met Dr. Kuo. Everyone that lives with back/leg disorders on a daily basis knows how depressing it is. I can remember days where I just paced the floor for hours as I couldn't sit, or stand in place for more than 10 minutes. I needed a right side aisle seat on a plane or in the theatre, or I couldn't make it through the flight or film. Try having a social life with those needs! Dr. Kuo cannot "fix" my back, but neither could any of the 4 back surgeons I consulted with. Theres no simple or easy cure for me, so Injections, PRP, peptides and radio frequency treatments are my only options, and I'd NEVER let anyone but Dr. Kuo provide them. To those that label him as money-hungry, or rude --- I don't believe it! Yup, once or twice I had a long wait at his office because he ACTUALLY gives his patients all the time they need to talk to him, and his office is always busy. I won't say what he's done to help me when I was in a bad space but believe me, he is anything but money hungry. I'm about to change my health care insurance and my choice WILLl be based on the plans his office accepts. Final note - Peptides and other out-of-pocket remedies may be a bit costly, but you'll pay the same price for them no matter where you go. Thats the fault of the pharmaceutical companies in the US, and not Dr. Kuo! People have a choice and if safely getting out of pain is what you need then go see Dr. Kuo. read more

Review from Chronic Pain Patient: I met Dr. Jonathann Kuo five months ago at Hudson Medical's West Village office almost three years to the day that Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) debilitated me at the age of 30. Stemming from nerve trauma to my dominant hand, my family and I watched as CRPS slowly robbed me of my quality of life. I lost my ability to write and type, forcing me to leave the workforce. Most of my days were spent indoors and horizontally. Triggered by anything from clothing on my body to a hug, I began to shy away from life to avoid having yet another unpredictable - yet always painful - CRPS flare up. I sat down across from him during our first appointment, ready to throw in the towel. Over a dozen doctors in three different states were unable and in some cases, unwilling, to help me manage or find even a bit of relief from this debilitating chronic pain condition. I learned over the years that some doctors would see the word 'chronic,' call my case atypical to what they're used to treating and show me the door. That day, Dr. Kuo looked beyond the diagnosis on my charts and viewed me as a blank canvas. He listened to me (actually listened to me) and tailored a comprehensive plan to tackle my pain. My CRPS proved tough, but Dr. Kuo and his wonderful team did not give up. He elegantly performed minimally invasive procedures - the paint brushes in his artists' box - and after dual SGBs (Stellate Ganglion Blocks) and a cycle of ketamine and NAD+ infusions, I have hope again for my future. The neuropathy in my feet has dissipated, the agonizing swelling has substantially subsided and I can receive and give hugs again. My CRPS will not be going away, but Dr. Kuo painted a beautiful picture and I can now envision a life with minimal pain with him and his team by my side. I am forever grateful to Hudson Medical for allowing me the ability to embrace my new normal with open arms, and I'm looking forward to what the future has in store for me for the first time in years. In a "one size fits some" medical industry, Dr. Kuo is a unique, honest and thoughtful physician and I feel safe in his care. Thank you Hudson Medical for giving me the ability to now feel in my heart that things will be okay. read more

I went to visit Dr. Kuo last week. He is the ONLY doctor that I trust with my spine. And he's by FAR the best pain management doctor that I've ever been to... and I've seen many over my lifetime. If you want to reduce pain in a modern and clean clinic with one of the best in the business then Dr Kuo and Hudson Medical are the only option. Thanks Dr. Kuo for keeping me pain free! read more

Hands down the best medical experience I've had. I usually dread doctor visits because.. well who the hell wants to be in a doctors office for hours while getting major attitude from the nurses and front desk receptionists? But Hudson Spine isn't like that at all. The office entrance is a little hard to find - the storefront doors downstairs can get a little confusing. Once you find the magical door, the elevator takes you up right into the office - kind of like a fancy penthouse. My immediate impression was "Wow, this place is very nice." It's super clean, has modern furnishings, and there were all kinds of cool paintings on the walls. It felt like I stepped into a museum for a second. I arrived a little late due to our wonderful subway system *sarcasm* but they promptly attended to me. The girl at the reception desk was great: down to earth, friendly, and most importantly incredibly efficient. She was a step ahead of me with the paperwork and prescriptions. I met with Dr. Ransic who was wonderful. He listened to me ramble about my chronic back pain without dismissing my concerns and insinuating I'm a hypochondriac - which happens to me a lot :(. He gave me a few anesthetic injections in my back and shoulders to relieve tissue pain, which were swift and completely painless, however, I was sore for about 2 days after. They even called to check up on me and recommended using ice packs for the soreness. Overall, I was really impressed with the way this place is run. Everything is handled efficiently and with care. The staff is really great, they know what they're doing and they're just NICE. Is that too much to ask for elsewhere? The doctor was so thorough and made sure he addressed all of my concerns. They also have in-house psychical therapy but you have to make separate appointments for that. Highly recommend this place! read more

See all

Dr. Kuo is by far the rudest, most egotistical and condescending doctor I've ever seen. I waited over an hour, spent most of my time with assistants and when he finally walked in he immediately started suggesting expensive procedures. I was desperate but able to pay. I got very little relief from the first procedure. But he convinced me to do an even more expensive procedure- which again did absolutely nothing for me. When I questioned his decision making he became extremely defensive. He said that he was the best and if he couldn't help me no one could. I don't think he was ever acting with my best interest in mind. It was all about the money. After that I received several bills for services I had already paid for. I left multiple messages but ended up having to go back there to resolve it. read more

The front staff can make or break a doctor's office so know that the front staff here is exceptionally kind, easy to talk to, and professional, making my visit more comfortable. The PAs and medical support staff have been kind and professional as well, answering all of my questions and knowing when to hold off on answering to let Dr. Kuo answer. Have I spent a pretty penny at this doctor's office for out of pocket and copayment expenses? Yes. No question about it. Health care is unfortunately and unfairly expensive to begin with. With all my back and body issues, an investment of time, money, and patience is required to feel relief and live the lifestyle I want. Since being a patient for a couple of years and undergoing a variety of treatments, I feel like I have relief and a more active lifestyle now ~ and one to look forward to. Sure, I still struggle with some pain and discomfort at times yet it isn't even close to the level of pain and discomfort I felt before I started receiving care with Dr. Kuo. Since getting multiple treatments, I am down to taking maybe one dose of pain med a week, and that says a lot. Dr. Kuo has a no-nonsense yet gentle kind of beside manner and I'm fine with that. We focus on my medical needs. At the end of the day we all have to be our best medical advocate and ask the hard questions so we can make informed decisions about our health. read more

So back in 2007 I had a heart attack due to cancer and flipped my car so badly that I walked away with 8 compression fractured. There's no reason I should be alive considering the condition of the car. But I am. For three years I was basically bed ridden;cancer pain was one thing, but not walking because my spine hurt to move even slightly was even more horrific. I had no quality of life and am not ashamed to say I didn't want to live in that way. I tried many doctors who wouldn't help because of my having had cancer and my immune system being in slow recovery. I remember a long shot visit to this manhattan office that my mother had to drive me to because I couldn't drive when I could barely walk. I sat across from Dr. Kuo crying (literal tears) saying it hurts and no one wants to help and I don't want to live if this is how life will be here on out. I remember the most amazing thing a person has ever done for me, a doctor yes, but he got up from his desk and walked around and put his hand on my shoulder and said, "I'm gonna help you today", and it was the most human bit of compassion that has changed my life ever since. Jonathann Kuo, MD., is an extraordinary man. Before cancer I've been fortunate to meet pretty extraordinary people, pretty much the entire White House admin under Clinton, movie stars and the like.... so I know extraordinary people when I meet them. Dr. Kuo has set up a pain management facility that is absolutely unrivaled and his expansion into two other clinics (3 total to date) at his young age literally makes him a phenom, a brilliant genius. He's changing the way traditional and interventional pain management has been done for years. It's not just him though; his ability to find the doctors and ancillary staff that equal him in compassion and skill, make him a great CEO. I drive over 45 miles to see him and Dr. Rances. I've been honest with them about my issues with opioids, and NEVER have I felt the ire of judgement from anyone, it was always more of a "well let's see what we can do to help you, and not create a situation where you are opioid depended again". It is always just honest and medical and compassionate. I went to another guy because I moved over 75 miles even further, and not only did this other anesthesiologist/pain doctor know of Hudson Medical, but I could hear by his questions about the practice that he was not only well aware of hudson medical, but envious about how Kuo has been able to accomplish as much as he has, I could actually feel envy coming from him. I had to leave this other guys practice because his main draw for clients was endless opioid prescriptions, and that's not what I needed. I needed that hand on my shoulder when no one else would help, and say that throughout everything, they'll be there for me so I never had to feel like life was not worth living because of spinal pain. That's what I needed. So then I started driving 110 miles and over the GWB paid $60 for parking, for two years. Because when you find platinum standard, that's what you do. I've gone into the office and heard naysayers, and I'm sure there are some because I see 3.5 stars., and I've heard people complain about wait times??!?!?! Well, outside of Hudson Medical, you have to book an office visit first, then a second appointment at a medical center and get dressed in a gown and it feels like you're about to have major surgery, and post-op is also about 45 minutes. That's what other interventional pain management offices do, that's how they run, and even though Hudson Medical May feel like a "mill", it's ability to see you same day, have a consult, and a procedure, in a safe, sterile, and compassionate environment is just unheard of. At least anywhere here in NY. Believe me I've looked. And it's not a "mill", it's actually just brilliantly executed efficient quick medical pain management service. So, since My becoming a patient at Hudson medical, life and my quality of life became important to me again and have had an extraordinary life. Dr. Kuo and Dr. Rances, are my favorite celebrities, at least to me they are celebrities, because every day I live without pain is a day I celebrate that i can rejoice in a life of quality again. And if you happen to make friends with Twinnie at the front desk, or any of the front desk staff, they'll keep you laughing with jokes all day even through this pandemic. I highly recommend the Hudson Medical associates practice. I also know that if you're just honest about your issues, you'll get the right help, and life can be worth it again. And be a patient, patient, cuz no where else are you gonna get faster and better service. read more

I love Dr. Kuo and his staff members. Winnie always so nice and professional. xoxoxo I recommend Dr. Kuo to everyone who needs a pain management doctor. I gave him 100000 stars. Thank you Dr. Kuo for always helping me feel better. read more

Highly NOT recommended!! My appointment was 2.5 hours for a consultation and treatment. After describing my pain to 3 different people, I finally received treatment. I was given an epidurel without my knowledge and given all kinds of sample meds without discussing side effects and its use. The front office is really unprofessional. I was told "Your insurance sucks" and needed payment in full right away without confirming with my insurance on coverage. Now I feel it will take a miracle to receive a refund on a charge that my insurance will pay. The billing department has no interest in calling my insurance to correct the problem either. read more

I find Dr. Kuo rushing into listening to my needs. Not as compassionate as described. His demeanor was uncaring that I thought he was a PA when he walked in. He doesn't deserve a 5 stars as described. The other patients were right saying he's more into just having you take shot and writing up strong medications. read more

Dr Kuo has treated me for lumbar spine pain, herniated disc associated pain and sciatica. As a person who suffers from constant chronic pain, there is no other doctor I would ever see. Dr. Kuo provides guidance, advice, thoughtful treatment plan and excellent follow up. I will continue seeing him, as I trust his medical expertise fully. Highly recommend to anyone seeking the same in their provider. read more

One of the most compassionate doctors I have ever had the pleasure of doing 'business' with. In a pain crisis he will always have me come right in and help me immediately. He does all his procedures at his facility so there's no need to make another appointment at different office. I have chronic pain and dr. Kuo is always trying to find new ways to help me deal with it. I highly recommend him . read more

I came here for physical therapy for a chronic issue that flared up again and have to say I am disappointed with this place. I felt like I was continually pushed to do a medical procedure that I informed them I no success with previous doctors. I almost gave in but stood my ground because the risks I had undergone in previous procedures were not worth the limited benefit. I was then handed a device that was supposed to assist with my condition. I asked them repeatedly what the cost was but they wouldn't tell me. They finally said, "a couple of hundred dollars." and that I could return it if my insurance company balked at the price. Turns out they billed the company close to $1000 for the device(200-300 on amazon) My main concern was I felt like I was being coerced into a procedure that had limited success and then given an assistive device that I will now have to pay several hundred dollars out-of-pocket for because they would not tell me the exact price. This is just my story. I am sure there are other stories but I will be heading back to my old doctor for now. I feel they violated my trust. read more

Highly NOT recommended. Know someone who went in because he couldn't walk due to the back pain...was given a cortisone shot and meds that had low dosage so no help. Then, MRI scheduled at one of "their" facilities 3 days later! Doctor still had not read it...said he doesn't work weekends. This person had already been out of work and in excruciating pain for a week...having him go back for MRI after 3 days? Really? And, to a place an hour away from his home? Can't imagine only one MRI facility! Unbelievable.....!!!! The drama continues... read more

Dr. Kuo has, quite literally, changed my life. For years I saw a Neurologist for Botox injections, which greatly reduced my occipital neuralgia; however, I'd spend 2 out of every 3 months with daily searing migraines. I took a chance on Dr. Kuo merely because he was on ZocDoc and had great reviews; little did I know I was headed down a path on pain-management that would, as of now at least, ELIMINATE my headaches. Due to insurance regulations and prior autos, I endured many, sometimes painful procedures, but the final procedure--radiofrequency ablation--changed my life. Dr. Kuo is patient, compassionate, and highly intelligent. It's not easy being a pain doc--i.e., getting hit up for drugs everyday and trying to determine which patients are junkies and which are not--and he handles that crappy part of the job with incredible grace (I've overheard patients flipping out at him for not refilling their opiates, and he maintains incredible professionalism). He is skilled in his work, and I know this because I'm not in much pain after he treats me, whereas I will be if someone else does. Despite his youth, I've gotten the impression he's the senior physician on the practice, and the other pain-management docs, in fact, seem neither skilled, compassionate, nor particularly knowledgeable, and always seem to defer to him for answers to questions. The practice is immaculate and expertly designed. The support staff--both clinical and admin--is phenomenal, and, despite the million prior auths and appointment changes, etc., I've never had a single thing that didn't run smoothly. In conclusion: I can't say enough about Hudson Spine in general and Dr. Kuo in particular. I would, however, specify that you want to see KUO, as opposed to one of his colleagues, since, in my opinion, the two other anesthiologists (Rances and Palvia) don't measure up :-/ read more

Dr. Kuo is a wonderful and caring Dr. He and his staff are always pleasant and helpful, and if in a pain crisis, will take you in immediately. I cannot say enough about his compassion and skills at pain management; and highly recommend him to anyone needing pain management help! read more

I highly recommend Dr. Jonathann Kuo. I had a spinal headache that was not diagnosed for 4 days. Dr. Kuo squeezed me in last minute and was professional and generous with his time. He diagnosed the spinal headache and performed a blood patch, which brought instant relief. I'm very grateful for his quick and effective help. read more

Dr. Kuo is fantastic. He is very professional, practical, and knowledgeable. He is patient and answers all your questions. His office staff is great, they often go above and beyond. I have and will continue to highly recommend Dr. Kuo and his team for pain management. Beautiful office and ease of making appointments is a cherry on top. read more