expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Douglas DeSalvo, D.C.

Chiropractor

Douglas DeSalvo, DC, BCN graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in 1986 with academic honors. The chiropractic curriculum included all the basic medical sciences and advanced sciences with major emphasis on anatomy, biomechanics, human physiology, X-ray, diagnosis, chiropractic adjusting techniques, and physiotherapy.
As of January 2023, Dr. DeSalvo is currently enrolled in the Trauma and Primary Spine Care advanced training certification program offered by the State University of Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in joint partnership with Cleveland University-Kansas City, College of Chiropractic, Texas Chiropractic College. 
Dr. DeSalvo is credentialed by the state of California with an X-ray operating permit to provide radiology services on-site. He has extensive post-graduate education in radiology and MRI interpretation. In addition, Dr. DeSalvo has medical and chiropractic radiologists on his team to provide the best in diagnostic imaging interpretation.
Douglas DeSalvo, DC is also credentialed through the University of Buffalo School of Medicine to give CE (Continuing Education) credit to medical doctors and nurses. He has been recognized by the Academy of Chiropractic as a clinician of excellence and has been awarded the Certificate of Merit by the New York Chiropractic College.
Dr. DeSalvo has extensive experience in caring for spinal spinal-related issues by treating over 10,000 patients since 1987.  He was awarded "Sonoma's Best Chiropractor" by Sonoma Magazine readers in 2018 and "Best Chiropractor in Marin County 2015" by readers of Bohemian Magazine and featured in other publications as a highly regarded chiropractic physician.
Dr. DeSalvo holds certification as a Zone Technique practitioner.
Douglas DeSalvo, DC is certified by the New York State Department of Education, Board of Chiropractic, postdoctoral education in MRI spine interpretation and credentials in personal injury trauma.
He is certified as a California Chiropractic Association Independent Disability Examiner. Additional certifications: Certified Acute Homeopath and Industrial Safety Consultant. Board Certified by the American Chiropractic Council of Infrared Imaging.  Further, he is certified by the San Diego Spine Research Institute in Whiplas Injury Biomechanics and Traumatology.  
Dr. Douglas DeSalvo, D.C.
  • Novato, CA
  • Palmer College Chiropractic West
  • Accepting new patients

How long does it take a herniated disc to heal without surgery?

It takes about 3-6 months with care in our office. It can take years without proper care.

Is laying on hard floor good for your back?

Getting on the floor with your knees up over a chair can bring relief. It also means your bed is not giving you enough support.

Why do my back hurts worse after the chiropractor?

It is not normal. It means that approach is not the best approach for you.

What is the fastest way to relieve back pain?

It depends on the cause of your back pain. If the pain is due to misalignment/subluxation the chiropractic is the fastest way. If it's due to deconditioning then exercise is READ MORE
It depends on the cause of your back pain. If the pain is due to misalignment/subluxation the chiropractic is the fastest way. If it's due to deconditioning then exercise is the fastest way. The best is a combination of both.

How can I realign my lower back at home?

Many patients arrive at my office with some history of self manipulation. It can bring relief but the missing component is specificity. That means correlating the exam findings READ MORE
Many patients arrive at my office with some history of self manipulation. It can bring relief but the missing component is specificity. That means correlating the exam findings with radiology to determine the best directional force to apply to get optimal result. As a primary spine care provider, I prefer a more professional approach to address the problem.

Can a chiropractor cure sciatica?

Yes, a chiropractor can cure sciatica. There are many variables depending on the cause and the best approach depending on patient presentation.