Testimonials

From Patients:

Dr. Wagner,
We just returned from our trip to Montana.  I want you to know that on Saturday morning, the day after my final visit to you, my back pain was miraculously cured.  The improvement was very remarkable and dramatic.

Thanks to you we had a wonderful trip.  My back was great and, except for one or two minor twinges, it continues to be well.  I am so grateful for what you did for me.  Now I’m trying to get my husband to come in and see if you can help him.

Many, many thanks!!

Lynn D.
Lafayette

Elliot and Gizelle bring professionalism, experience, compassion and smiles to those who are in pain or suffering from chronic conditions.  From the initial greeting to the farewell words and touch, they bring much to our community seeking this modality of healthcare.  I am very familiar with western medicine but a newcomer to eastern medicine.  I come away with a fine understanding of its application.  My recovery was facilitated by their great work.

Russell S.
Lafayette

(Russ S., MD, is an internist in Oakland, CA.  He was treated for low back pain.)

Dear Elliot,
I just wanted to thank you for spending so much time with me, and setting me on the path to wellness.

All the best,
Stephanie M.
Lafayette

(Stephanie was treated for hormonal imbalance.)

Dear Dr. Wagner,
Thank you so much for being a grounding presence in my life when I really needed it.  Your thoughtful consideration and treatment have guided along the path to health with a newfound confidence.  I am so grateful to have met you and I wish you all the best!

Love, light, and relaxation.

Carly T.
Lafayette

Dear Dr. Wagner,
I cannot even begin to tell you how thankful I am!  Coming into your office, I was desperate to do anything to help my knee.  I was doubtful that anything could help but I was wrong.  After just one treatment I was pain free, and ready to play in the state volleyball championship game.  Thanks to you I was able to help my Campolindo team win everything we had ever dreamed of.

Winning the state championship game was not the only thing your treatment helped me through.  I also play club volleyball and I haven’t had one pain this year.  Because of this I am able to play in every game, and I was able to be seen by Fordham University recruiters and now will be playing there next year on a full ride scholarship!

If it weren’t for you I probably wouldn’t have had this opportunity, so I want to thank you with all of my heart!

Sincerely,
Chandler M.
Moraga

I started going to Dr. Wagner when I had shingles about two years ago.  I was in terrible pain all over and was given a high dosage of Percocet.  Taking the pill did not help at all, I was dizzy and light-headed.  I had reluctantly made an appointment for acupuncture, because I heard that it was a great way to treat shingles.  I had the first treatment two days after the diagnosis.  I felt improvement right away.  The second treatment was like a miracle, I couldn’t believe it!  The shingles lasted only for four days instead of the typical long agonizing painful course that usually comes with the disease.

I was subsequently diagnosed with a form of cancer called multiple myeloma.  My case was rare because I am a woman, Asian, and I am short (which is not typical for patients who have this disease).  I had infections all the time and even my dentist couldn’t do basic dental work because I had inflamed tonsils and sinus infection.  She had to give me antibiotics for a week before treatment.  I had pain in my back, my bones were always aching and I was very tired all of the time.  My immunity was so suppressed.  I had no energy.  I was referred for spinal surgery.  I was so scared because I had so many operations in the past and at my age, I did not want to undergo another operation. Also, I was displaying symptoms of angina and I was supposed to go through an angiogram.  I did not submit to any of those procedures.

While I was waiting, I read about all the things acupuncture can help.  I went straight to cancer and found out I could be helped by it.  I talked with Dr. Wagner and he started to analyze what steps he was going to do to tackle my sickness.  I have been going to him regularly.  Acupuncture has even helped to improve my circulation.

Last Monday, July 25, 2011, I received good news from my Oncologist.  She told me that my blood test showed that my cancer is now in remission.  I firmly believe that acupuncture, and the skills that Dr. Wagner possesses are the reasons I am now in remission.

Bernadette H.
Hayward

Dr. Wagner is fantastic.  My neck was a mess due to stress and long hours of driving. He took care of me and now I'm pain free.  I highly recommend him and he is very accommodating with scheduling appointments.  I drive from Oakland and it is so easy.  If you are considering acupuncture I'd check out Dr. Wagner.

Valary C.
Oakland, CA
6/30/11

Dr. Elliot Wagner is a true professional.  He helped me get relief with a 5 year old back injury which was causing severe spasms.  This was my first experience using acupuncture and I was amazed at how comfortable he
made the process and the results.

Sue W.
Moraga CA
6/22/2011

Love, love, love Dr. Wagner!  He is amazing at what he does. I have had shoulder pain for over 1½ years due to a work injury. I finally got approved to start acupuncture and after the 4th treatment I could already feel the difference.  I was very nervous about the whole thing, especially the needles, but Dr. Wagner put me right at ease.

Two thumbs up and 5 stars for Dr. Wagner and the staff at the Lafayette Acupuncture Center.  Everybody is friendly, helpful and they are also very accommodating.

Yvonne B.
Hayward, CA
6/17/2011

Elliot has been treating me for several months for chronic low back pain and neuropathy in my feet.  After several treatments I was almost pain free!  Elliot is extremely professional, knowledgeable and personable. I highly recommend Lafayette Acupuncture for any ailment. Elliot is a miracle worker!!

Jim R.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/14/2011

I limped in a week ago hardly able to manage the stairs in my house after thinking I was Wonder Woman of the garden.  Elliot Wagner has worked wonders on my knee and I recommend him highly! So much so that I am off to a garden tour tomorrow!

Thanks, Lafayette Acupuncture Center.

Shelley S.
Walnut Creek, CA
7/23/2010

Lafayette Acupuncture is an ideal option for those interested in receiving acupuncture treatment.  I have been a patient of Dr. Wagner's for over a year, receiving treatment from him for neck and facial tension.  From the outset of my treatment, Dr. Wagner displayed genuine solicitude for my discomfort and has worked diligently and effectively to treat me.  In discussing the course of my treatment with Dr. Wagner, it is abundantly clear that he is both extremely knowledgeable about, and passionate about, his profession.  I would further note that the same can be said of Gizelle, Dr. Wagner's trusted and friendly assistant.  Together, Gizelle and Dr. Wagner form a wonderful team, offering excellent and effective treatment.  If one is interested in receiving acupuncture treatment, one can do no better than Lafayette Acupuncture.

Justin F.
Lafayette, CA
7/10/2009

Compassion is the first word that comes to mind.  Kindness, gentle spirit and a great sense of humor all packed into one lovely man.  If that’s not enough, my therapy has not only been successful physically but mentally as well.  Gizelle is also a great asset.  She is receptionist, assistant, whirlwind, and an efficient wonderful person.  If you're looking for experience with a great deal of thoughtfulness in a doctor I highly recommend Dr. Wagner.  In fact, go to his website for the whole story.  You'll be impressed and you won't be sorry for a minute if you choose to go see him. (Kathryn was treated for low back pain.)

Kathryn M.
Concord, CA
11/20/2008

Dear Elliot,
I want to thank you for your gentle care while I had shingles. I know that is what made me get better so quickly. You are a wonderful doctor. Rachel is still talking about you - hairy eyebrows, big nose, and moustache, and all!

With Love,
Paula, Castro Valley

Dr. Wagner,
Thank you for being exactly who you are! You are one of the greatest men I know, and I'm thankful that we feel safe together.

Your friend always,
Aimee, Lafayette

Dear Dr. Wagner and Gizelle,
I am writing this to both of you because you work so well as a team. You, Gizelle, manage the confusion of the front office and see that everything hums along so Dr. Wagner can concentrate on the patient's problems.

For too many years I listened to the Medical experts tell me there was no cure for any of my miseries and to just make the best of it. From having Acupuncture treatments her for just a couple of months, I am well on my way to being pain free. I did have Acu. treatments along the way, but they did nothing to help. I know now that just sticking pins in a person really isn't Acupuncture. One almost needs X-Ray vision to see where they go. I'm sure Dr. Wagner has this gift, and I'll be forever grateful to him for giving me my life back.

Thank you both for all you give to everyone you touch. We all love you.

Sincerely,
Virginia, Rossmoor

(Virginia was treated for peripheral neuropathy.)

Dear Elliot,
I just can't leave your treatments without one more word...
Gratitude.
I appreciate how you quickly cured my pain. It was a totally positive experience from beginning to end.

Love,
Julie C., Piedmont

(Julie was treated for neck and shoulder pain.)

In Recognition of Dr. Elliot Wagner,
I have been seriously involved in competitive athletics, for many years, and I have led a physically active life since the age of 11.

In 2002 I was impacted by a very large truck when it failed to stop for a red light. My automobile was destroyed. I consulted several physicians and was given drugs, and I became resigned to my failing health.

Until I visited this office.

My first treatment removed my pain. Dr. Wagner's experienced hands found the source of my pain within moments I literally felt the pain leave my body like polluted water flowing out of my body. The droning, depressing suffering never returned.

Since that visit, I have since returned to an exercise program, and I have "road-tested" Dr. Wagner's work to see if the pain would recur. It never has. Dr. Wagner and his beautiful "co-professional" associate Gizelle have proved to be a real-life Godsend. I feel years younger, and my friends tell me that my face has changed because I look so relieved.

Thank you, Dr. Wagner, for your fine work.

Sincerely,
Dennis O., Lafayette

(Dennis was treated for low back pain and post-laminectomy syndrome.)

Dear Elliot,
I just returned from my stay in Santa Fe. If it hadn't been for your wonderfully persistent needles and genuine interest to cure me, I wouldn't have been able to go on my trip at all. The six treatments abated my pain considerably, and I'm a true believer now in the ancient art of acupuncture. I thank you for your healing powers.

Gizelle is a wonderful asset, and she was on top of everything. Her sweet helpfulness was very much appreciated at a time of being in a lot of pain. Both of you saved me.

Many, many thanks again.
Karen D., Oakland

(Karen was treated for neck pain.)

Having never experienced acupuncture treatment before, I was a little apprehensive. No need, a thoroughly relaxing and enjoyable feeling. After only four visits 95% of the aches and pains I began with had gone. I had a complete spasm in the muscles on the left side of my jaw, neck and shoulder, I think caused by a tooth extraction nine weeks previously. My thanks go to Elliot and his able assistant Gizelle for their kindness and friendliness during my visits.

Goodbye and hope to see you next year.

Yours faithfully,
Jo P., Johannesburg, South Africa

In 1992 I got crashed at the plate in a baseball game resulting in a neck injury. Though never severe, the injury often manifest itself in numbness, itching, cramping and "fire" pain usually extending over my shoulder and into my arm. Over the years, I had visited doctors, chiropractors, PTs and masseuses to receive treatment. The results varied but none of it has really corrected the problem.

When more recently the problems had flared up again, I decided I would try acupuncture. I found my insurance covered treatment at Lafayette Acupuncture Center so I made an appointment with Gizelle. Dr. Wagner did a thorough consultation with me taking the history of no only the injury but my dietary and health habits. He recommended a course of treatment- 2-3 times a week for a few weeks-mostly acupuncture as well other Eastern medicinal practices. I was a bit skeptical but agreed to it. I am very happy to say that in time my pain has nearly disappeared and my range of motion through that side of my upper body has improved considerably. Additionally Dr. Wagner has given me excellent advice in the treatment of more acute injuries and in my diet. I can honestly say that I am a new man with his treatment.

As many have said here, Elliot and Gizelle are among the finest people you are ever likely to run across. I can't recommend this practice highly enough!
David K., Lafayette

I was afflicted with a severe case of facial paralysis 17 years ago, known as Bell's palsy, and I continue to have residual effects to this day. This "disorder" has been devastating. I have struggled with the side effects of this paralysis for years, trying different treatments and alternatives. Nothing really seemed to work.

Then I decided that I would give it one last "college try" before I finally succumb to facial asymmetry forever. I read about Dr. Elliot Wagner and Lafayette Acupuncture in the Lafayette newspaper, and his articles intrigued me, including the one he wrote on Bell's palsy. No one ever seems to acknowledge this terrible affliction. So I made my first appointment, and from his first diagnosis for treatment, I have been a happy patient of his since I started seeing him in February 2009.

He and Gizelle Calvin, his office manager, make the perfect team, and I enjoy seeing them every time I go. They have great compassion and they work in perfect sync with each other. They have a great bedside manner and they seem to know what they are doing. Dr. Elliot, whom I call "Professor", because he's so smart, has done wonders for me. Gizelle actually assists in the treatments, and she has had a medical background, so I have complete trust and confidence in both of them.

The long and short of it, through the recommendations of Dr. Elliot's intensive acupuncture and herbal treatments for my face, has had very positive results. I have more circulation in my face, my mouth is becoming more symmetrical, my eye area has improved, and my face does not feel as stiff anymore.

I would DEFINITELY recommend Lafayette Acupuncture - Dr. Elliot and Gizelle Calvin - to anyone who wants healing. They sure made a wonderful difference in my life. And the extra bonus is that I REALLY LIKE THEM too!
Lynne M., Lafayette

Dear Doctor Wagner,
My sickle pain gets bad in the winter. Since you gave me medicine, I have no pain in the winter for the first time since I can remember.

Thank you for your help,
Robert M., Oakland

You're the best at what you do, you can be sure of that! You've made my life and problems much easier to deal with!! For that I'm thankful! Thank you very much.

God Bless You.
Vince P., San Quentin

(Vince was treated for a rotator cuff tear.)

... Your devotion and excellent work is so, so much appreciated... I was impressed with your excellent skills and power with acupuncture.
David J., San Francisco

My experience with Elliot over the past six years has been simply extraordinary. Not only has he applied the science and craft of acupuncture at the highest standard, but he has also enhanced the healing process by demonstrating friendship and honesty. I am tremendously thankful for his care and wisdom.
Steve M., Castro Valley

(Steve was treated for chronic immune deficiency.)

Elliot is a fantastic acupuncturist. When I started treatment with him nine months ago, I only had 35 per cent mobility in my hands. Today, I have 95 per cent. But what sets Elliot apart is his gentle nature and genuine kindness. His focus and attentiveness makes me feel as though I’m his only patient.
Oscar J., Oakland

You have played an instrumental role in healing my physical pain which, in turn, also healed other areas of my life.
Francis H., San Francisco

Elliot has treated my various health problems for thirteen years and I am completely satisfied. His knowledge of acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and vitamins is vast and his manner is very empathetic.
John I., Berkeley

Elliot has been treating me for the last ten years or so. In that time I have seen what I call “magical cures,’ because they are effective beyond my limited comprehension.
Sean B., Oakland

Receiving acupuncture from Elliot Wagner has been consistently helpful, and has taken me from not being able to walk around the block to being able to sustain a good 6-8 hours of activity a day (most days). I feel like something has been released in my lower back and hip, and the chronic pain in those areas is greatly diminished. I had no idea how much energy I was losing to pain until it wasn’t there all the time. In addition, the effects of the acupuncture seem to last longer and longer between treatments. I am one who has benefitted greatly, and I want you to know how deeply grateful I am.
Sandra H., Walnut Creek

I just wanted to let you know that you have been extremely helpful to me these last few months. Since childhood I have suffered from a great deal of stress, and my back was one of those areas where I felt it the most I started thinking that maybe I’d never be able to sit for long periods of time and be forced to lay down most of ther day. This was causing a great deal of depression in my life. I thought my dreams and hopes would be lost forever. But all that changed a few months ago when I came to you for my first treatment. Two days later I left your office feeling less pain. I was getting better and sitting up more during the day.

My Mom was in the hospital right as this was all happening, and I was able to sit with her every day and help her go through it. That has meant so much to me.
Faith C., San Francisco

My doctors told me that they had never seen such a rich uterine lining! My wonderful, healthy baby was conceived just a year after we began treatment.
Louise L., Montclair

I gave birth to my baby girl just eight hours after we did the acupuncture labor induction. It worked just great!
M.M., San Ramon

Your integrity and mindfulness have allowed me to feel a deep and profound trust with a man, something I was convinced I would never feel. “When the needles seep into my cells, my pain is transformed into peace.”
K.A., Walnut Creek

Having my Mom go through all this has helped her a lot.  It has also gave her some stuff to think about.  She has been moving more, but I really want to thank you so much for trying and putting all your work into helping my Mom. 
V.A. (K.A.'s Daughter), age 9, Walnut Creek

From Colleagues:

Elliot has always been extremely professional and responsive to my needs as a physician. I have referred patients to him who have chronic pain, tobacco and drug addiction, insomnia, anxietydisorders and other ailments. Both I and my patients have been pleased with the results. Acupuncture often offers a remedy where Western medicine may fall short. In addition, I was once a patient of Elliot's. I had low back pain with sciatica and was frustrated by the lack of response to physical therapy, rest and medications. Under his care my back pain improved dramatically.
Basil S., M.D., San Francisco

Elliot is a great acupuncturist. I know this because I have seen the incredible results produced by his clinic. I have the utmost respect for him as a colleague and confidence in his abilities.
JoEllen V., M.D., San Francisco

I have found Elliot's kind nature, creativity, and thoughtfulness to be the qualities that differentiate a basically good provider from one that has remarkable healing abilities. Elliot is one of these remarkable providers.
Paul H., F.N.P. (Family Nurse Practitioner), San Francisco

I just wanted to let you know what a wonderful job you do. Not only is your spirit amazing, but my clients continually tell me how wonderful you are.
Angela A. (Psychotherapist), San Francisco

Elliot -
Thank you for your beautiful heart. I appreciate you and all the knowledge you have extended to [our] students and to the love you share with the world.
K.S., L.Ac. (Acupuncture Clinic Director,) San Francisco

Elliot has treated hundreds of [our patients] with acute pain syndromes, bringing prompt relief, and continues to treat others with chronic pain. I have referred patients with various problems from anxiety, depression, pain, diabetes out of control, asthma, and hypertension. It seems that his approach to patient care, and the technique itself, are able to bring about very positive changes in the person's symptoms as well as their relationship to their bodies and minds. This is an amazing accomplishment given the extreme hardship that is present in many of the lives of our inner city patients.
H.M.L., M.D., San Francisco