As a frequent Google reviewer, I would consider this to be one of my highest rated reviews.
We went in for scoliosis screening & x-rays for spine, hips, toes etc. for our happy 5 year old with CP.
If I could give this doctor 10 stars I would. Let's get down to the brass tacks.
Waiting/Staff/Cleanliness:
Waited roughly 5 minutes in the waiting room, directly sent to a clean and friendly office with Disney on the wall. Roughly 8 minutes for Dr. Rieger to come in. We were seen quickly. The office was clean, tidy, filled with lovely staff, especially his assistant Anna, who I chat about more below. She was so incredibly prepared and so kind.
Mannerisms/Knowledge:
From the moment Dr.R walked in he was pleasant, understanding and patient. It's very difficult having a special needs child and dealing with so many doctors. Many parents are terrified, just as her dad and I are, and always will be when it comes to new doctors. This was our second visit with Dr. R. It was during this visit we found our OS.
Our concerns were listened to, questions answered and any open questions, he was certain that we had other options to follow up.
He did a full examination with care, kindness, knowledgeable of everything he did, speaking aloud while he performed a full range of motion exams.
Examination/Communication:
This is one of the best exams our daughter has ever had. Knowledgeable, competent and understanding, doctor took time to explain each body part, what he saw, his concerns and recs. He helped two very scared parents understand what was happening with our child. He did so in an incredible bedside manner.
He left. We went to x-ray 3 minutes later in office. X-ray took under 8 minutes. 5 mins later, he explained everything he visually saw. Again, with incredible knowledge and understanding.
Recommendations/follow-ups:
Rec for Dr. Spiro, upper extremity dr in Philadelphia, something we needed.
We were also given written recommendations by his assistant, Anna, an amazing human in totality.
Overall Experience:
Everything about this doctor is stellar. Any reviews that say otherwise...written word is heavily misconstrued. The reality of the situation is, this doctor is wonderful, kind, generous and caring.
UPDATE:
As of August 29th of 2023, our daughter no longer needs a back brace in the evenings. Her back curvature went from 23° down to 13°.
UPDATED EDIT 6/2025-
-the above ° for x-ray is incorrect. That number is so hopeful for so many parents. It was for us as well. Since then, it has been explained that our daughter probably moved during the X-ray which resulted in the large number change.
--UPDATED EDIT--7/2/25
Our daughter heads in August 13th for SPML surgery to hopefully better her quality of life. Unfortunately, Dr.R has recently stopped taking our insurance. We're doing everything we can to stay with him.
Please take note. Although Dr. Rieger no longer takes our insurance, he decided to move forward with our child's surgery. I don't even know if he's being paid for the surgery but he's doing it anyway.
We are fearful our daughter's back is getting worse. If she ends up needing spinal surgery I have no clue how to communicate this but I'm hoping this doctor will be by our side.
UPDATE 11-4
not much room to write
I will adjust the review to continue with updates.
SPML surgery was in August
It was a miracle..
I recommend this doctor
I recommend the surgery
5 days ago my daughter took steps on her own with minimal assistance and no equipment
She can put her feet flat on the floor and not recoil from overstimulation, hypersensitivity and the inability to control her own body
Her life is better
Check back in!
Please remember to view Dr NUZZO as well..Dr. R's partner in crime.
These doctors changed our lives and we are beyond grateful.
Fears for her back continue however, since the surgery, she has had a noticeable increase in the ability to control the right side of her body.
We have faith.
Five stars, recommended
I will edit this and redo
