I recommend the surgeons at Orthopedic Associated of North Chelmsford, MA. As a retired RN with…read moreO.R. experience, I tend to be very critical of surgeons. Since 2019, I've had several procedures to alleviate the pain of osteoarthritis. First, a left rotator cuff repair then, in the fall, a left knee replacement, by Dr. Scott Sigman. High praise for him and his team. I had minimal post op pain and was walking the day of surgery. Several years later I had the pleasure of bilateral hip replacements, 1 yr apart, by Dr. Stephen Designa. Again, minimal post op discomfort and, with physical therapy, return to normal with no more pain. And such tiny incisions--I can barely see them! Thank you and bless you, Dr. Designa. Now, in 2026 I'm back for more magic, seeing Dr. Howard Wu for bilateral shoulder arthritis . He is urging me to have the surgeries, first the left which is giving me the most discomfort and limited range of motion, then, after a time, the right. But, since I'm elderly and also caring for my disabled husband, I've been putting it off. He's right,of course, I need them ,and I'm not afraid but he listens to me and, I think, understands. It's comforting to know that, when I'm ready, he'll do his best to give me real golden years. We baby boomers are lucky. Modern technology and talented surgeons. Replace the old, worn out joints and we'll feel better. Maria S, Lowell, MA August 2026

Dr. Steven Alter never denied my requests for out-of-work notes, and I appreciate that. I did not…read morehave surgery with him, so I can't comment on his surgical skills or outcomes. From my experience, I felt his bedside manner could be better. I often left feeling like my injury and concerns were being minimized and that I wasn't being fully heard. My impression is that he has a very direct, surgeon-focused approach, which may work well for some patients but wasn't the best fit for me. I can't say he's a bad doctor. However, beyond providing me with time off from work, I don't feel much was done to fully evaluate all of my complaints. For example, I never received comprehensive strength testing for the various issues I reported. One thing that also concerned me was that the office seemed to use a standard template in the medical notes. Some of the statements about my care did not accurately reflect what occurred during my visits, which I found frustrating. I've also spoken with three other people who were not particularly happy with their experiences when I mentioned Dr. Alter. Of course, that's anecdotal, and it doesn't mean he isn't an excellent surgeon. This review is simply my personal experience as a patient. I will say Amanda the medical receptionist was great, every request I asked for, she promptly responded to me with the information I needed.

From my experience, administration, communication, nurses, doctors, maintenance,…read morereceptionists.....every single person was not just professional and kind but also patient, understanding, and actually funny! They all have great chemistry with each other and have excellent bedside manner. Well done!

Appointment making was easy. Pre appointment directions were clear and easy to follow. They took…read moreme in right away,a bit earlier than appointment time. They sensed my anxiety, but explained everything. The procedure was painless, and I reciceived some immediate feedback. Every professional from reception, nurses, anesthesiologists and physicians were professional, expert, empathetic and kind. Thank you.

Very knowledgeable doctor, staff very polite and attentive. Very good visit. The waiting area needs…read moresome love and tender care outdated but besides that great staff.

Extremely professional office with excellent doctors and staff. Every appointment has been on time…read moreand scheduling of additional tests are made on the spot.

Called for an appointment for what I believe is an ingrown toenail. The first thing the…read morereceptionist asked me is if I have insurance and whether it pays for podiatry. I told her I do have insurance. She said to go and check and call back later. She never asked what my problem was. Her first concern was getting paid. Horrible way to start a relationship with a doctor I have never seen. I would never make an appointment with a doctors office that is more worried about getting paid than helping me with my issue. Naturally they would be paid whether the insurance was paying or not. How insulting to treat a potential client so disrespectfully.

I've been to Dr Gorgol numerous times over the past two decades for treatment of ingrown toenails…read moreand always an easy ordeal. This time I was bringing my daughter who was quite anxious over the prospect of surgery on her toe. Dr Gorgols easy going manner, humor and general bedside manner put my child completely at ease and she even said it was a pleasant experience, as pleasant as having ones toenail operated on can be. I won't go anywhere else for my families foot care.