Dr. Shavelson was absolutely amazing - one of the best doctors I've seen in a long time, and honestly probably one of the best in my life. I see that several people on here had a bad experience with a Groupon, which to me sounds just like a typical Groupon experience, so hopefully not much weight is given to those - but read on if you want to hear about my experience! His office is in a small office building downtown and when I first walked in, I wasn't really sure what to make of it - but I was immediately put at ease by the friendly staff. I sat down to fill out one of the standard "first-timer" forms and one of the receptionists came out to chat with me for a bit afterwards to make sure I understood their fee structure and what would and wouldn't be covered by my insurance. I've never been to a doctor's office that was so clear and upfront with how much everything would cost - so things really started off on the right foot (pun intended!) After waiting about 5 minutes, I was called back to an exam room to meet with Dr. Shavelson and was immediately struck by his kind demeanor and smile. He put me at ease within seconds, and we started chatting about what I was feeling. He read over my forms and made a few jokes with me - which I enjoyed. We then had an extensive conversation as to what was going on with my feet. The entire time I was with Dr. Shavelson I could tell he was someone who absolutely LOVED what he did. This is the type of guy who would totally do the job for free if that was possible; he really cares about this stuff and seems to really care about his patients as well. There was a serious passion in his voice in telling me about what was going on, and pointing out a few other things that could be done. I had gone into the office for one issue, but he pointed out something else to me, without my prompting - something that I had always thought was amiss; he told me what was going on, why it was happening, and what could be done to fix it. Long story short, if you have some questions about your feet ... this is the place to go! read more

I was mislead, told that a follow up procedure would be included with my Groupon, and when I returned for the procedure, I was denied. There are many cheaper alternatives with providers who do not mislead! read more

This review is based strictly on the Groupon I renewed for a MediPedi. I did so much research before ordering my Groupon and got terribly excited after watching YouTube videos and reading all about it. All of this to say I'm sadly disappointed in the pedi itself. The office and their associates are wonderful. Friendly and attentive, I had my questions answered and never felt like I was a hassle or a burden. Needless to say, the appointment was more educational than it was an actual MediPedi. Dr. Sha is very friendly and made me smile at first meet with a funny greeting. I was a little cranky since I hadn't eaten but he quickly lifted my spirits. The appointment: We sat and spoke for about 30 mins. I'm so informed and found things out about my feet that I'd never known. It's clear that Dr. Sha loves what he does. One thing I've noticed about the health industry is that they're quick to shove surgery and pills into you. This office doesn't stand on that. The goal is to avoid surgery and to avoid unnecessary means by actually figuring out the cause of the problem and fixing it as best as possible through all alternative avenues. I admire that. But on to the actual service. I'm not sure if it's the fact that it was paid for through Groupon or if this is just the standard here but not too much was done to make me feel a complete difference in my feet. The pedi part took all of about 10-15 mins. For $59, I'm not sure that I'm comfortable with what I got and I'm left wondering if the visit was worth it at all and whether a pedicure at a nail salon with some informational reading would've sufficed. My feet are just as ashy as they were when I walked in although they filed and scraped my problem areas down pretty nicely. All in all, the process was smooth, scheduling was a breeze, and besides the cost to service fulfillment, was of no inconvenience in anyway. Thanks anyway Lifestyle Podiatry. read more

I came here for a second opinion, influenced by the positive reviews posted. I got exactly what I had hoped for...and a lot more! This gentleman doctor is only holistic and organic but a pioneer in biomechanics and advanced treatments. I won't repeat what others have already said about an outstanding practitioner; Dr Shavelson is NYC unique. read more

Born with flat feet, I was always the girl with the funny orthopedic shoes, a tomboy love of all things sports and the outdoors, and an insane obsession with shoes of all kinds. Lucky for younger me the shoe orthotic came along and turned my shoe dreams into a closet full of shoes and the well-appointed statement sneakers. Sadly my success though sweet was short lived. My almost daily quest for the right shoe to make a great outfit would somehow be sabotaged each morning by my shoe orthotics. You see, I could never find the right level of support and had to often tape my toes and constantly maneuver my feet on the orthotics just to avoid corns, blisters, swelling and to battle ugly toenails. I honestly thought taping with Band-Aids was just a natural part of putting on my shoes even though I am not a dancer or runner by any stretch of the imagination. I even had corrective surgery (bunions and hammertoes removed) to ease the pain of wearing sensible shoes. And while the aesthetics of my feet improved the mechanics remained a problem. However, all of this changed once I became a LifeStyle Podiatry patient. Working with Dr. Shavelson, over the last 6 months, I now have a better understanding of the foundation and biomechanics of my foot type. I have most importantly learned that my previous shoe orthotics was treating the symptoms and not the cause of having flat feet. What is interesting is that I learned having flat feet goes well beyond not having an arch. It has more to do with the biomechanics of my foot, or rather the position of my ankle and toes. By maneuvering my foot into the correct position for a proper arch (giving way to proper body alignment and posture) Dr Shavelson showed me that I have the ability to walk without constantly maneuvering my feet to avoid shoe pain and body discomfort. The great thing is that with each visit Dr. Shavelson has evolved a custom therapy program based on my foot type. It consists of both in office and at home exercises and techniques that have improved the way I stand and walk. The exercises have even restored a lot of flexibility and mobility in my toes and ankles, which I lost as a result of my corrective surgery. Each day I notice more and more progress and look forward to the day when I no longer need shoe orthotics or to tape my toes. So if you have a similar experience to mine or live with any foot discomfort and pain, I highly recommend Dr. Shavelson. He is very hands on and gives you all the tools and resources to make your therapy program a success. read more

Wow... I was very impressed with Dr. Sha and his staff. I called and got an appointment an hour later. Dr. Sha has great bedside manner and is effective/efficient. I was in pain and I thought there was no hope for my toes but the Dr. informed me of possible solutions. The Front desk was very professional and friendly. I received a complentary file worth $35. I will be going back but not because of the free file only due to the fact, that is was a great overall experience. Que Viva la Bomba Puertoriquena! read more

Dr. Shavelson is amazing!!! I came to him after injuring a tendon in my foot that runs up the inside of my calf. I had no idea what it was - my ankle was swollen and I limped around for a few days before find Dr. Shavelson on ZocDoc. From the moment I met him, I felt like I knew him my whole life. He's has a great sense of humor and made me feel at ease as soon as he examined my foot. He actually got on the phone and made the case to my insurance company to allow me to have an MRI right away - that same day! I was impressed. After my MRI and resting off my feet for about 5 days, I went back to see him and we began physical therapy visits 2x a week. It was a pleasure - he was never late and I never had any pain. He also used an amazing tape on my feet to help secure them in the position that they needed to be in for optimal healing. This stuff is amazing and even stays on after you shower. It's 3 months later and I feel great; no more pain! I have a new pair of inserts that he made for me in my shoes - I can run up and down stairs and walk for miles now. I have to also mention that his assistants and staff are some of the nicest I have ever come across and they have gone above and beyond to accommodate me with last minute rescheduling and insurance processing requests. I recommend him very highly!! read more

I'm writing this review because my visit with Dr. Shavelson was the BEST western medical appointment I've ever had. I say that because I love my holistic doctor and take issue with western medicine's pill and surgery approach to health problems. I was a pointe ballet dancer when I was younger and now work in the restaurant industry, so I'm always on my feet and working in heels. My feet have taken a lot of abuse. When I arrived the office staff was sweet and helpful. Dr. Shavelson spent a great deal of time with me showing me how I distribute my weight improperly on my feet, which is why I am developing the issues I'm having. Instead of pushing any surgery (part of my innate disdain with our nation's medical practice), we discussed ways that I could correct this issue. I think I learned more about proper feet health in this one visit than I have EVER accumulated in my life. It's obvious Dr. Shavelson is genuinely passionate about podiatry and wants to educate people. He is a true expert and I'm so happy I found him. read more

I went for a medical pedicure which is which I got from Groupon. It was a disappointment to say the least while I understand that a medical pedicure does not involve polishing of the toes and all of that I did expect my feet to be cleaned up from Callison and wear and tear and it was very minimal. I was very disappointed as everything done with things that I could have done myself!, I understand that he was giving you know a feat education but what I had signed up for was a medical pedicure and I'm disappointed and I do not recommend this facility read more

perhaps it is obvious why I did not take Dr. Shavelson's calls. he clearly needs a lesson in tactfulness, and needs to learn how to take a hint. I have nothing else to say to him - I shared my experience, do not plan to go back, and wanted to give a warning to anyone else who is overweight and doesn't need a not so thin foot doctor to remind them. I'm not sure what this doctor means by "as weight increases". I lost weight from running. maybe that's why I took up the activity- imagine that. more importantly, it was the first (and final) time he ever saw me so how on earth would he know what my current weight was in relativity to the past? it is true that I visited for a medical pedicure that lasted approx 20 secs. since Dr. S was "kind enough" to ask me if I had anything else to talk about, I told him my ankle had been hurting for awhile, and I assumed it was because I had been running many miles a week. obviously I regret that now, since I bought an overpriced box of athletic tape, got the sage advice to not wear thin flat shoes when walking in the city, avoided him trying to sell me shoe pads that cost HUNDREDS of dollars and got insulted in the process. I'm no doctor, but I've seen plenty of people who look thin to me with ankle problems because they increased their athletic activity. and asking someone "why are you overweight" IS NOT the same as informing them that being fat puts extra stress on the joints which is a) obvious and b) irrelevant to the discussion when the person you're talking to is actively trying to lose weight. plus: isn't it a *MAJOR HIPAA VIOLATION* for a doctor to discuss the specifics of a patient visit on the internet? either way, it proves just how insensitive and frankly, unprofessional Dr. S. can be. read more

I just wanted to take time to write an excellent review for Dr. Shavelson. So rarely do I see a doctor who spends so much individual time with a patient, and who cares as much as he does. He truly is an exceptional and life changing podiatrist. He made THE BEST orthotics for me, and more importantly, he took the time to address the underlying problems causing foot pain, including engaging in physical therapy. As a pregnant lady, I have suffered from leg pains/cramps, and the doctor has come up with innovative solutions to alleviate the pain, which in fact has improved due to his intervention. Truly this doctor and his staff go above and beyond the normal call of duty, and I feel lucky to have discovered him. read more

Really funky creepy bldg. Great service. I'm happy w groupon laser purchase. Saved $1000

I cannot say enough good about Dr. Shavelson and my experience at Lifestyle Podiatry. I have NEVER had a doctor spend so much time with me explaining, examining, listening and asking questions. His knowledge, compassion, bedside manner and services are above and beyond. In addition to all this, he was very willing to work with me on a solution that would fit my budget and work with my insurance. I highly recommend Dr. Shavelson and his practice. read more

i made an appointment to see the Dr, for my mom i told them she was in a wheelchair, they said no problem the Dr helps. When i got her there he saw her and kept calling her a big girl. Mom is not a thin woman but she is not 250 - 300 lbs. which the dr kept stating. He was horrible and said he could come to the house for a fee of 200 but would do it for a 100 even though my mom has medicare. He talked and spit at the same time he spit on my sister. Then he said there was another Dr. down the block he thought could see mom but as it turned out he moved quite a while ago. When asked about the Dr he stated what my sister do for a living and she is a nurse he made a coment like do you know other nurses. What a Jerk would not let him touch my feet. Don't go to this place horrible and lyers and insulting. 000000 stars. read more

Had a Groupon appt for laser fungus treatment. My impression of the doctor Shavelson was superb. Knowledgeable, attentive, spent a lot of time with me. I suppose part of it was telling about other treatments they do, but nevertheless, great doctor in my view. Result wise -- i had no changes on my nail. If anything it got worse, started to crumble on top. What is particularly disappointing is that groupon includes a follow up appointment. When i called them and asked when the follow up should be they said, "any time, up to you". So i decided to wait so that new nail grows, give treatment time, etc. When i was sure it didn't work and called again, they said - "no, followup only within 2 months of treatment". So basically i have no result and no suggestion from the doctor on how to follow. read more

My experience with Lifestyle Podiatry has been great. The doctor is very knowledgable and friendly. Though the office may not be the fanciest one you've ever been to, you still get professional attention. read more

My experience with Dr. Shavelson reminds me once again how wonderful it is to be under the care of someone who loves his/her practice. This is how medical practise should be and the type of family doctors that I grew up with at countries with universal health care. Being in NYC for 7 years, I am used to being rushed in and out of appointments because the doctor has 10 more patients waiting in the hospital assembly line, I was so pleasantly surprised to discover how much I enjoy my visit to a podiatrist. And I dreaded seeing a podiatrist for years in-spite of being a lifelong athlete. My feet really needed care from all the use and abuse but I could not find the right person for help. Now I know I can go to Dr. Shavelson without fear :) read more

I'm a former dancer with a foot condition that was getting worse and worse - causing problems in my feet, knees and hip. I've been to other podiatrists and physical therapists, but Dr Shavelson is the first doctor who truly understood what was going on and effectively treated my feet. Even after one visit and some inserts, my hip, knees and feet feel much better. I am very impressed with Dr. Shavelson's expertise and his willingness to talk through treatment and answer questions. His office is relaxed and efficient, without long wait times. I would very highly recommend Dr. Shavelson. I have seen many foot specialists, and in my opinion, he is by far one of the very best. read more

I love to walk (it's my favorite exercise and mode of transportation) but between bunions and plantar fasciitis every step was painful. Dr. Sha crafted orthotics for me that changed my life. I avoided surgery, am completely pain-free and took a two week walking vacation through Italy. Truly amazing! read more

Has his own rigid protocol, takes offense to patient input or questions, thinks he's pretty great but I've seen nothing to prove that.

I was absolutely appalled at the lack of professionalism at this podiatrist office. First of all, I found the Lifestyle Podiatry via a Google search for laser nail therapy clinic. There was a $25 booking fee that was only to be used to make sure people made it to their "free consultation" and is a policy to prevent no shows. I showed. I was greeted by a nice receptionist who was unclear of my reason for visiting (laser treatment for nail fungus). When I asked if I had to include my insurance because I was told its cosmetic procedure and wouldn't be covered, she asked me if I had a Groupon. I was unaware of a groupon deal and informed her that if there was indeed a discount available I would want to use it. She proceeded to leave and talk to the doctor. After that he asked me about whether or not I had a groupon and when I reacted he said he would "shut his mouth". He then sent a different woman to the receptionist desk and she called me over to talk. I explained I am a server and really could use any discount available. The price quoted to me was $1149 and I was told that could be paid in 3 installments which was my plan. When I looked up the groupon deal it was $199. This is a huge rip off! Then the doctor spoke on the phone with the second woman and he was literally in the next room. I could blatantly hear everything on both ends of the phone conversation. He told the woman I couldn't be seen for less than $700 today, which was not the price I was quoted. It would have been perfectly fine to rip me off without both having slipped and letting me know I was being taken advantage of. Moreover, the doctor could have been a professional and come and talked with me instead of about me within an ear shot. DON'T GO TO THIS PODIATRIST! - that is, unless you have a groupon. Unprofessional, extremely rude. They didn't refund my money as I requested. I didn't receive the consultation I came for and I did show up. I am reporting them to the better business bureau. read more

Dr. Shav was so thorough and walked me through in great detail what most doctors would find too common or insignificant a problem. After years of self treatment and failed treatments from other mds, Dr. Shav was able to do the trick. Clearly loves what he does and is dedicated to the practice. read more

Dr. Shavelson has bedside matter down to an art. I hate feet, okay? And not only do I hate feet, but I'm also a big wimp when it comes to pain. I had an ingrown toe nail that I was absolutely terrified of having treated, but Dr. Shavelson put me completely at ease. He had the whole thing taken care of in 10 minutes, had me laughing at his jokes, and on top of it gave me some cushions to use with my insoles that will correct the way I've been walking. Yes, it turns out I've been walking wrong this whole time, apparently your knees aren't supposed to knock together when you take a step- don't judge me. His front desk staff was also super sweet. If you've gotta have a stranger touching your feet, I definitely think Dr. Shavelson is a great choice :) Just be sure to verify the address before you go- they have two offices across the street from each other, one on 160 Broadway and one on Maiden Lane. If you mix them up, the ladies at the front desk will patiently re-direct you. read more

I can not speak highly enough of Dr. Shavelson. He is truly wonderful. I am a theater artist and I was experiencing foot pain that made it very difficult to do my work. Dr. Shavelson was extremely generous with his time and resources. He is extremely knowledgable and I feel very lucky to work with him. He is kind and clever and is designing cutting edge products and techniques. His office staff is also great! Thank you to the whole office! read more