Dr. Jonathan Erulkar, MD

I was referred tovDr Erulkar for a herniated disk. After the first surgery, I was in horrible pain, I could not walk and he gave me very mild pain meds. I was screaming in pain and I am tough. He never told me he had pierced the dura, the fluid around the spine but said I needed another surgery. So I had a second one, still same pain. I finally went to a neurosurgeon who knew what was wrong immediately. I needed a third surgery to fix what Erulkar messed up.

It's hard to find many surgeons who want to care about the whole YOU. It's hard to find surgeons who really take the time to listen to your needs and conditions and explain procedures and possible outcomes in an understanding way. But, Dr. Erulkar is just that kind of surgeon and I am exceptionally grateful for all he has done to alleviate my pain and discomfort. For many years, I've suffered with herniated discs and stenosis that left me walking with great difficulty. At 71, I've had my share of orthopedic issues and surgeries, yet my overall health is very good. Taking a chance on IBJI's Ortho Access Clinic, I was immediately triaged to and treated by Dr. Erulkar - we tried medications and other conservative approaches, but an MRI confirmed what he thought - that surgery was the best option for me. L4. L5 spinal fusion, laminectomy and discectomy were performed at Skokie Hospital and < than 2 weeks later, I have NO pain and am walking daily without discomfort. Thank YOU, Dr. E

Excellent experience! I trust him that is very important to me! T. Vandestaan

Dr. E is the best. Great bedside manners. Solve the issues, and cares about the patient.

After waiting for an hour to get back to see Dr Erulkar. He was brief & abrupt. He did not listen to any of the information I gave him. In fact prescribed me meds "to help me sleep better" after I had just told him I am not in pain when I am sleeping. Told me to get a back brace after I had just told him I already have a back brace. His only concern was sending me across the hall to get an MRI. Never showed me my X-Rays or explained why I need an MRI?? Worst experience with a doctor.

I have been seeing Dr. E. for a few years for a few different problems; knee, disc, back etc. It's not only that he's attentive and bright, but his entire team - especially Ronna - are really accessible, caring and concerned. Illinois Bone and Joint is a great group!

Erulkar made one phone call, one only, following an attempt to repair a herniated disc. I awoke from surgery with my left leg numb from the top of the knee to the bottom of the ankle. He made one call to me in total and never, ever displayed any human concern about how I was doing following surgery. My debilitating sciatica pain continued after surgery & I had to find a specialist at Rush who ONLY works on previously failed spinal surgeries. Avoid this doctor at all costs. Lost life quality.

He was very knowledgeable about my condition and mapped out a realistic and careful game plan.