Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2025
Dr. David Burnikel , is a very professional and caring physician, who’s interested in seeking all possible alternatives to preventive unnecessary procedures or surgery! So thankful for all the physicians at Synergy Orthopedic they truly provide excellent and quality services in the medical profession! Sincerely Appreciative PatientPatient Submitted Review
Jul-2025
Dr. Burnikel is a wonderfully skilled surgeon. I had great results after a severe traumatic injury. Follow up and concern from him and his entire staff was first rate. I was lucky to have had him treat my injury.
Patient Submitted Review
Jul-2025
Dr. David Burnikel has been my doctor since October 2024. I had surgery and we left shoulder in January 2025 and I was up and going in no time Great doctor....
Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2025
Wow....for such a large office, the staff kept EVERYTHING running smoothly.....including getting xrays.... Didn't wait but maybe 5 mins for Dr B to come see us, and go over what he thought was going on, he made some suggestions and started the ball rolling on getting us to the right kind of Dr to get this resolved.....Thank You!!! ***would Definitely refer this office for Orthopedic issues!!!!Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2025
Amazing staff and beautiful clean office. The doctor was in just a few mins after the nurse brought me in my room. Everyone is very friendly the new office is easy to find. I love this place would definitely recommend to anyone !Patient Submitted Review
May-2025
Dr David BURNIKEL was extremely professional and I felt that he was knowledgeable and helpful. It is such a comfort when a Doctor cares about healing his patients and isn’t focused solely on healing patients and not what he can bill them for instead.Patient Submitted Review
May-2025
This is a caring, compassionate doctor that knows his stuff!! A surgeon who explores other options to postpone or prevent surgery (orthopedic). Just starting a new approach to my torn rotator cuff!! I’ll keep you posted! His staff is wonderful as well! Highly recommend Synergy!!! I am now six months out of my rotator cuff surgery and I could not be more pleased. I am exercising (lightly) PT is helping me get recovery and strength back in my right arm AND I am knitting again. I can't recommend this Clinic more!!!Patient Submitted Review
May-2025
I went for my pre-op appointment with Dr. Burnikel today. I am scheduled for my 2nd knee replacement in a couple of weeks. I have 100% confidence in Dr. Burnikel’s skills as a top-notch surgeon. My right knee replacement was done to perfection! He and his staff are professionals with the highest marks. I am pleased they have a gorgeous new location. Thank you for all you do for your patients!Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2025
I I will never forget the day that I was in the office with Dr. Barnacle and he said I love to do surgery that clinched it for me. He’s doing my surgery on the 22nd and I have full confidence in him.Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2025
Dr. Burnikel was knowledgeable and efficient in explaining what my diagnosis and best treatment options were. While he is a surgeon and enjoys performing surgeries he told me my best options are less-invasive and provide immediate pain relief so I could get back to the fitness activities I love. I left my first appointment with him grateful and relieved. Will continue to see him as needed.Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2025
(Reviewed under the last name "Powers" I visited Synergy Orthopaedics today for my 1st. appt. with Dr.David Burnikel. I'm not one to rush to review but from the moment I got there until I was called for my appt ( I was on time and she called me in early ) the front office folks made sure I felt welcome. They were a flawless team weaving in and out performing their functions. Smiling and focused, happy at work and it showed. Dr. Burnikel immediately put me ease. Any nervousness that I came with melted away. That's a gift not all doctors can do that as you know. I loved that he sat down right across from me, to talk me. He asked some questions about what brought me in, etc. and after the X-ray he advised me what I was up against, what options I had and gave me the positive and negative possibilities to help me make my decision. He's so confident and knowledgeable in what he does. Very kind. I couldn't have asked for a better doctor. I have complete confidence in him as my surgeon. THIS is the kind of doctor you want. Just great. I'm so happy that I had my appointment there today.Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2025
Dr. David Burnikel returned me to a normal life. I lived with a lot of pain due to the tears I had in my right shoulder. He repaired each broken tendon, removed the arthritis and also a bone spur that was painful with every movement. Thank you very much for your help, I now live without pain and I feel happy to have fallen into your hands because I know that you made it possible for me to return to my normal life! I would 100% recommend itPatient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
He made my experience REALLY comfortable. He heard me out. He was very attentive. Very thorough in his explanations. He made sure I knew EXACTLY what was going on, what was going to happen, and how it was going to be to done. I HIGHLY recommend him.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Doctor Burnacle is Always professional and knowledgeable about his work I see him for my shoulder and my knee. He does great cortisone injections to keep me able to work! For the last couple years Always right on time I never wait and gives me a lot of information. He even shows me the MRI and compares it to other MRI “s so I have a clear idea of what is going on in my body .Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr. Burnikel was very professional and provided me with great service during my appointment and answered all of my questions and explained everything to me honestly and clearly.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr Burnikel was thorough, honest, and compassionate in his care. His experience and expertise are extensive and his recommendations were helpful honest and rooted in what was best for the patient the staff was also kind and efficient. The XRay technician stood out as well as she was personable and very knowledgeable Thank you!Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr. David Burnikel is an exceptional person and doctor—among the best in his field! The advise given and the services rendered, have not only provided an increase in both mobility and flexibility with a decrease in pain, but also, knowledge and understanding that has led to confidence. Exceptional!Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2025
Dr Burnikel is great, highly recommend, dealt with shoulder pain for I can’t even remember how long, after the surgery pain dissipated very fast. Had surgery 3 months ago and am now pain free!! Thanks dr B!!Patient Submitted Review
Dec-2024
Dr. Burnikel is a fantastic surgeon! His whole team is filled with rockstars as well. He repaired a particularly difficult meniscus tear when other surgeons would shave it leading to arthritis. He was adamant about the repair from the initial consultation, and I’m so thankful. Scheduling was a breeze (Susan is his care coordinator, and she’s a doll and SO helpful!). Dr. Burnikel was thorough in his explanation of everything, and I felt fully prepared and informed going into surgery. His X-Ray technician at Synergy was great & knowledgeable, his nursing team at Synergy was friendly, and the staff at the surgery center was stellar (special shout out to Dennis who prepped me for surgery and my OR nurse Kimberly who prioritized my comfort and pain management!). This was my 4th knee surgery (all different surgeons), and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with Dr. Burnikel and his team again if I ever need a 5th.Patient Submitted Review
Dec-2024
Dr. Burnikel was awesome. Great bedside manner and took his time explaining what was going on with my knee. Ultimately advised against getting another surgery to fix a surgery that was done correctly 7 years ago. Highly recommend for any needing an Ortho Consult.Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
An excellent experience he was very thorough honest and to the point very accommodating to my needs and my specific situation highly recommended I've seen a few other surgeons prior but he's by far much much better with both people skills and knowledge his excellence in dedication are appreciated at least by mePatient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
On time and efficient practice. I look forward to working with them. Update: This office is the most efficient doctor’s office I have ever been to. If only all doctors could work this way. Every visit has been a pleasure.Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2024
Knowledgeable, experienced, great bedside manner !! Caring, physician. I am so pleased with heimand his staff! His MA.and patient coordinator are top of the line!!Patient Submitted Review
Oct-2024
10/10 recommend Dr.Burnikel! I tore my acl and Dr.Burnikel performed knee reconstruction surgery on me. A year later now and I couldn’t have asked for better results. Internally and externally I’ve healed amazingly and had no complications and I am back to playing my sports.Patient Submitted Review
Oct-2024
Very happy with my surgery on my shoulder, a torn rotator cuff very painful. I am 3 months out from surgery the pain is gone. He and his staff were outstanding. Thank you so muchPatient Submitted Review
Sep-2024
Dr. Burnikel is a subject matter expert in his field of medical practice. I genuinely felt I received an accurate diagnosis and not some cookie cutter prognosis from the insurance company position. It was a refreshing and a privilege to be treated by his office. I highly recommend this physician for any orthopedic need!Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2024
The service and care I recieve at synergy orthopedics has been phenomenal. From the booking of appointments to the treatment by Dr. Burnikel, I know I am in good hands. They have made the hard process of having an injury so smooth and seamless. I appreciate their whole team!Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2024
Doctor Burnikle did a great job and knee is so much better after being scoped by him. He is not much on small talk but he is an expert at his craft. His staffer was also amazing.Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2024
Service is great I'm am very Blessed to have Doctor David Burnikel as my my Orthopedic Surgeon. Hello is very professional and I am very Blessed to have someone so caring and concerned as he is to do my surgery.Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2024
Dr.Burnikel was so knowledgeable and understanding as well as giving me the information in a digestible way so that we can make decisions about my care together. Highly recommend!Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2024
I blew out my knee really bad by rupturing my patellar tendon. Dr. Burnikel’s calm and cool demeanor reassured me that we would get me back to 100%. He explained everything in layman’s terms as if I was a 3rd grader which really put my mind at ease. With past surgeries from over surgeons, I was stress out that something would go wrong but I never had those same butterflies with Dr Burnikel. Surgery was scheduled for 4 hrs and he knocked it out in 2 hrs. A true professional and master of his craft. I would 10000% recommend to anyone that needs knee surgery.
Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2024
Dr. Burnikel is very profesional in discussing symptoms to properly address issues with my shoulders. I feel confident that I am in the best care for any treatment needed!Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2024
I have been a patient of Dr. Burnikel for many years. From xrays MRI’s to surgery. Best sports medicine doctor in San Diego by far!! I wouldn’t go anywhere else. Thank you doctor Burnikle!Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2024
Felt listened to and liked the way the doctor explained things to me. He even drew a picture to explain how my knee was hurt. He answered my questions in a simple way.Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2024
Dr Burnikel is an amazing surgeon, he did a fantastic job repairing my rotator cuff and is very knowledgeable. He explains everything very well and takes all the necessary precautions to make sure the surgery is successful. His staff is also great, professional and kind. I am thankful he is my doctor!Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2024
I had ACL surgery 02/09/2024 Dr Burnikel was my surgeon and I’m glad. He’s very professional and gives me alot of confidence because this is my first surgery ever, Thank you so much for the great care and surgery you performed on me. Special thanks to Mara Vazquez the Medical Assistant for being super helpful and keep answering me for all my questions and doing her best to help me out. Highly recommended to everyone.Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2024
Dr. Burnikel and his staff are friendly, informative, and professional. All of my questions were answered, and I was put at ease before surgery. Dr. Burnikel was straight to the point and open and willing to answer my questions. He provided ample time for my appointment and did not rush through it although he is most certainly a very busy surgeon with many patients.Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2024
Dr Burnikel is very knowledgeable and knows exactly what to do to put you back together. I am confident that I am in good hands with his kind and compassionate team!Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2024
Wonderful experience with SD Sports Medicine & Ortho Center. Dr. Burnikel is an amazing surgeon and the staff was always helpful and kind. They ensured I had a smooth prep, surgery, and follow-up. I am so glad I went with SDSM and Dr. Burnikel to fix my knee! Would highly recommend to anyone.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2024
Excellent visit! It was my first appointment and I was taken back, vitals done, X-rays, met with PA and Dr Burnikel before I had even finished the paperwork! Kind and efficient, it was the most productive Dr visit I’ve ever had in my life! I highly recommend this office; it is well managed and efficient! Literally no waiting time!Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2024
The staff is friendly and helpful. Dr Burnikle has a lot of patients to see so he’s direct and to the point, but answered all our questions very clearly.Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2023
Needed cortisone shot in my knee. Very efficient, answered all my questions and got me in and out of office in less than 20 minutes. I am very grateful.Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2023
Dr. Burnikel was very professional and knowledgeable. He prepared me for the surgery and let me know what I would experience. My knee is a nightmare and he did what I thought was impossible. I feel much more confident in my ability to be able to accomplish some of my goals in the near future because I've had this surgery. Though I know it will be a long, difficult road I feel like this was the best possible outcome. I recommend this clinic and Dr. Burnikel for it's timeliness and the amount of care and support they have their patients. I couldn't have asked for a better Dr. And staff.Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2023
Dr. Burnikel did a knee replacement surgery on one knee and it was a very good experience! And now going back for my other knee and wouldn’t let anyone else do it!Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2023
Yesterday was my first appointment with Dr Bernickel. Everything went well and he had my options laid out and some very good information that I needed to know to go forward with my knee.Patient Submitted Review
Jul-2023
Everyone in the office were pleasant and helpful. X-Ray tech efficient and kind. Dr Burnikel was very nice, explained the extent of my condition and treatment options at this stage and in the future. I found him to be very knowledgable. The immediate treatment was successful and I was walking better with far less pain in afew hours later than I have in years!Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2023
I’m very happy with Dr. Burnikel, he’s very knowledgeable and tries to do his best to help his patients get treatment and help them with alleviating the pain as much as possible. He’s a great doctor.Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2023
I’ve been a patient since 2019 for knee issues. Was actually thinking of knee replacement. Dr Burnikel injected my knee with “gel”, and I started walking 4-5 miles a day and haven’t stopped and I am 75!! Great doc!Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2023
I was there for my knee pain Dr. gave me cortisone shot. Today I feel much better. The Dr was very good super nice explained everything clearly to me. I will definitely recommend all my friends and family there.Patient Submitted Review
May-2023
Dr Burnikel and his staff provided excellent care, we're very attentive to my issues(chronic shoulder pain) and took time to answer all my questions while helping me get better. Can't recommend them enough.Patient Submitted Review
May-2023
Dr. Burnikel is very professional and explained things so I can understand him. Had x-ray, 2 visits with him all within 1 hour. Very impressed with entire office staff.Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2023
I truly appreciate this office. The nurses are so nice & always with a smile. As for Dr. Burnikel, I went for my knee pain. He listens, he explains, leaves room for my questions (that he always give answers). He doesn't rush my appointment. Truly a 5-STAR Office!!!Patient Submitted Review
Mar-2023
I got the answers I was looking for from Dr. Burnikel. He was thorough and wrote a report for me to share with a doctor in my insurance network. I appreciated his time and expertise.Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2023
Dr Burnikel has always listened to me and explained procedures. He gives choices on treatments and supports my ideas. He actually seems like he cares. A smart and caring doctor. That photo doesn’t look like him.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2023
Thank you to Dr.Burnikel and his entire staff starting with the reception desk; friendly, informative and helpful. Support staff were efficient and engaging.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2023
The physician assistant and Dr. Burnikel are pleasant and outstanding to interface with. My 92 year old mom was experiencing daily knees pain for over 3yrs from an undetected fracture hip. Dr Burnickel was able to treat the pain immediately and provide future alternative solutions to treat the pain without surgery. It is wonderful to see an old woman happy and live with pain free after the initial treatment. The smile on her face is priceless and she thinks highly of Dr . BurnikelPatient Submitted Review
Sep-2022
DR. BURNIKEL, HAS BEEN TREATING ME FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW HE HAS BEEN NOTHING BUT PROFESSIONAL,C COURTEOUS HE'S ALWAYS SMILING AND HE ALWAYS EXPLAINS MY DIAGNOSIS TO ME WERE I UNDERSTAND .Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2022
Dr. Burnikel is very professional. I saw him to get a second opinion and he was kind and thorough. Overall the office is clean and the staff is friendly and efficient. He explained the situation and told me what he can do and how we should proceed.Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2022
great dr. i have seen him several times and the experience is always pleasant. he always recommends the best care and dr. burnikel includes the patient's opinion along with the decision.Patient Submitted Review
Jun-2022
Dr. Burnikel was very tentive & had great bed side manners. He made sure that all my questions were answered. As well he explained my medical status & solutions regarding my knee very thoroughly and future options. I was satisfied @ my 1st visit. Thank you.Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2022
I am extremely happy with the outcome of my surgery. I had a total knee replacement. Dr. Burnikel prescribed plenty of physical therapy for me and I was able to recover completely in less then 9 months. I feel great!!! Thank you Dr. BurnikelPatient Submitted Review
Feb-2022
I had very good expirenced with Doctor David J. Burnikel on my first appointment he explained to me very easy for me to understand about my injury of my shoulder and after the surgery I felt much better thanks to Dr Burnikel I recomend 100% he is the bestPatient Submitted Review
Feb-2022
I was very satisfied with the professionalism prompt service and thanks being explained to me prior to performing the services they rendered to me I will highly rate this place as very helpful very beneficial to achieving a better lis better life PhysicallyPatient Submitted Review
Nov-2021
Thank you Doctor vertical and your team you guys are at 10 star in my book I truly appreciate all the work that you have done for me happy happy holidays and God blessPatient Submitted Review
Oct-2021
The appointment I Attended this yesterday was every bit of 5 star treatment. From the nicest front personnel reception to the radiology department, nurse, PA, and doctor! I got the full scope of my condition and plan moving forward. Thank you very much SDSM! Robert H.
rater8 Verified Patient
Feb-2021
Dr Burnikel is absolutely fantastic as is his staff! I have seen at least 3 other Ortho Drs and Surgeons in the last 8 years regarding chronic right shoulder pain. He was the ONLY one who properly diagnosed me and did not dismiss my concerns- after an MRI indicated a few things he was not quick to recommend surgery and we are trying other avenues first. He recommended a PT that was also extremely helpful, which was also a first for me after trying PT many times over the years for the same issue. I might still end up having to have surgery, but not once was I pressured into it and I cannot explain the relief Dr Burnikel provided me just by truly listening and properly diagnosing me. Thank you Dr. Burnikel- your attentiveness brought me to tears!rater8 Verified Patient
Feb-2021
Not only does he have great bedside manner but he also found an injury another doctor missed. He answered all of my questions and was very empathetic to my situation. Very impressed with him so far. His PA resident was amazing as well. She was very knowledgeable and could not have been more kind.Patient Submitted Review
Feb-2021
Dr. Burnikel is always curtious and thorough. He always asks if I have any concerns other than what we had always covered. I like Dr. Burnikel and the staff.Patient Submitted Review
Jan-2021
Dr. Burnikel and his team did an exceptional job with the complete repair of my torn medial meniscus. He thoroughly explained the injury, procedure options, recovery and rehabilitation. As an extremely active person who teaches and practices Yoga daily, I appreciate the compassionate care and reassurance I have received during my rehabilitation.Patient Submitted Review
Dec-2020
I am so grateful a friend of mine told me of her success here. I first visited with certainty I would have to have a knee replacement procedure. Instead Dr Burnikel injected my knee with a Gel shot and for two yrs now, I walk 4-5 miles a day and I am soon 73!Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2020
Dr. Burnikel is a great doctor. I had an ACL Reconstruction and a meniscus repair done and my knee is practically as good as my non-injured knee. Dr. Burnikel is really reasonable doctor. He goes above and beyond to help you out even if you don't really need it. My mom was curious about a knee brace but he explained that in my condition I probably don't need one. To make my mom feel better, he went out of his way to write me a referral for a brace incase she wanted me to get one. Needless to say, Dr. Burnikel knows how to treat patients but also treat families. On top of that, Dr. Burnikel's works is phenomenal. I barely have any scars on my knee from the whole surgery. One aspect of this whole process that I particularly liked was how thorough Dr. Burnikel was. For physical therapy, Dr. Burnikel made my own rehab schedule that my therapists need to follow which I believe most people probably would not recieve from other doctors(At least that's what my physical therapist said). For my "Return to Sport" Protocol, even my therapist was impressed with how specific and in depth my test was. Not only was my test different than what most people take, but it was a lot harder and truly tested the strength of my knee and the graft from the surgery itself. I feel confident that my knee will last the rest of my lifetime. Thanks Dr. Burnikel!Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2020
I would highly recommend Dr. Burnikel and the entire office team. The entire time that I have been under the care of Dr. Burnikel and his team, they have always been there to answer any questions or doubts. I am now 3 months post surgery and the pain in my left knee has been received 100%. The process from initial visit, surgery scheduling and post surgery has been simple and flawless. Thank you so much to the entire team at Dr. Burnikels office.Patient Submitted Review
Jul-2020
Broke my fibula is March. I got a referral to Dr Burnikel! He did a gravity stress X-ray that another medical group didn’t bothered to do. He showed and explained to me why surgery was recommended. He welcomed me to get a second opinion, which I declined, after having listened to what he had to say- I didn’t feel it was necessary. He knows his stuff. He’s also kind, efficient and his technology is new and up to date. His medical assistant, David Carias and X-ray technician, Jose, went above and beyond to assist in my recovery. I was able to email David during my recovery with questions or concerns and his responses were prompt and thorough. Jose even tightened up a loose screw on my knee scooter, because I mentioned I’d fallen off of it. It was fine after that! The front desk staff is friendly and helpful. The surgery went well- I knew what to expect every step of the way. The incision healed well and is hardly noticeable. The surgery staff did everything to make me feel safe and comfortable. They followed up to see how I was doing. Highly recommend this medical office. Glad I found them.Patient Submitted Review
May-2020
I've had 2 surgeries in the last 2 years done by Dr Burnickle. The first was a tendon release on my left elbow; the second a total knee replacement of the left one. My elbow was healed within a month, and it felt as if nothing had ever been wrong with it. Even the scar is completely faded by now. I'm just now 90 days post-surgery on the knee, and it is already close to 100%; I'd rate it at 98 now. I'm not young, looking at my 6th decade of life, but going forward is a much better prospect thanks to Dr Burnickle. If you need orthopedic care, there is no one better.Patient Submitted Review
May-2020
Every visit to Dr. Burnikel's office has been pleasant, starting with the staff, who always has a smile, very helpful & kind. The office is immaculate also. Dr. Burnikel did an amazing job on my right shoulder which had a torn rotator cuff, & I am healing well. He is a very kind doctor & I highly recommend him. Thank you Dr. Burnikel!Patient Submitted Review
May-2020
I had arthroscopic shoulder surgery 2 months ago with Dr. Burnikel. The process was seamless! From the front office to the back they made the entire appointment process easy with x-rays, mri, scheduling surgery, etc. Every encounter with the staff at this office has been great! Dr. Burnikel is a really, really good surgeon. He was spot on with my diagnosis and I am so glad I had surgery. I am still healing and going through physical therapy but expect to be fully recovered and pain free in the near future. If you're looking for a good shoulder specialist, this is your man.Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2020
This experience was amazing. From the Front Desk, to the X-Ray Technician, to the PA and Dr. Burnikel, MD!!!!!!! I am still in awe of the knowledge base, the professionalism, the care and concern, the ability to listen even when I was posing the same question different ways because I wanted to be sure I understood; and, his patience because he could see I was not OK with the diagnosis, because I did not want to believe what I was hearing. Once he lead me to the fact-of-the-matter, and we were both on board with the truth, his kindness and solution-oriented presentation of my options, or lack of, was kind yet direct. He gave me all that he could in the way of relief; and if he could not have offered it, I know he would have found a kind, yet direct-and-to-the-point answer. Thank you Dr. David Bunikel, MD and supporting staff for this experience. I am on my way, FINALLY, to answers, and treatment; that if I had gotten 2 years ago would have probably not allowed the state of my issues to be as severe as they are!!!!!! Thank you for a wonderful experience. I actually have hope. Elizabeth EllisonPatient Submitted Review
Nov-2019
Dr David Burnikel is an excellent doctor all around! I went to see him nervously knowing that I needed knee surgery for a high grade ACL ligament tear in my left knee. He was very informative about my options for my surgery and to the point about the process of healing. He has excellent bed side manner and I have felt at ease through the whole process.. He did a great job on my surgery . I think I will have very little scarring and I'm healing nicely! Great staff experience as well!Patient Submitted Review
Nov-2019
Staff, physician, office very professional, friendly, courtesy, intelligent, quick appointment, & honest in diagnosis, not trying to get me to try additional services I.e. $$$ honest about possibility of services I could try, but not pushing me to get, as percentage of relief low.Patient Submitted Review
Oct-2019
Dr. Burnikel is very nice, caring, and a great listener. I was feeling like no one believed me and the pain I was going through with my right shoulder. Then I was referred to Dr. Durnikel. That was the best thing that could have happened to me. He found what was wrong with me and now I am on the road to recovery. Thank you so much Doctor!Patient Submitted Review
Sep-2019
He's one of the best doctors Sports Doctor he's very nice current time he explains everything to you so that you understand each and everything he's going to do or have to do or suggest to them the rest of his team is very nice office visit is very nice. When I went in to have my surgery I had to have a complete left knee replacement his bedside manner was immaculate made me feel comfortable made me feel like everything is going to be okay I'll talk to him before surgery right after surgery when I came to I seen him every day that I was there he made sure everything was okay I wouldn't give him up for nothing in the world he's one of the best doctors and head for surgery every knee replacement or should I say joint replacement so yes I will recommend him to any and everybody if you have any problems with your joints you need to call his office make an appointment and talk to him one thing about it he's for real is real talk he tell you what's up front he don't he don't sugar-coat nothing for you so you know exactly what's going on and that's something that I really. He may look young and good-looking which he is good looking but he is a good doctor don't let the looks fool you you don't have to be old to be good so if you haven't joint problems called San Diego Sports Medicine & orthopaedic center. Dr David J Burnikel is one of the most experience doctor in this field. I think he's one of the best doctors everybody has their own opinion but that's mine and I've been through quite a few doctors in this field and he's turning out to be one of the best for me so I'm sure he'll be in the best for you so you need to check him out if you needed make an appointment you won't be sorry. I think it feels good to be without excruciating pain and he did that for me so yes I rather be pain free send to be walking around and paying on the time so yes I had the surgery yes I'm going to physical therapy but yes the pain is only from the surgery I don't have the pain I had before the surgery and each day is getting better and better and all I can do is say thank you to my doctor David J Burnikel . (👼 HE IS) God truly guys his hands when he's in surgery and I feel so good about that that's my feelings he is an angel Sent From Heaven to help all those in need this kind of surgery.Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2019
The office and Dr Burnikel are fantastic. So easy to talk to and set up an appointment. I would 110% recommend them! Dr. Burnikel listened to my leg issues (runners injuries) and addressed them with care and professionalism.Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2019
Dr. Burnikel has provided excellent care at both his prior and current offices. After a bad fall, my elbow was shattered and required extensive reconstructive surgery. Dr. Burnikel has offered wonderful patient care before and after surgery. He is attentive, compassionate, and always gives ample time for patient questions and dialogue. If the need were to ever arise again (knock on wood!), I would confidently choose him as my surgeon. Dr. Burnikel truly cares about his patients and I am most grateful for the treatment I have received.Patient Submitted Review
Jul-2019
My review is for Dr. Burnikel, I followed him to SD Sports Medicine from his previous location. Dr. Burnikel is a ROCK STAR!! I broke my ankle very badly in an accident last fall, and Dr Burnikel put it back together. I've carried pictures of my xrays and showed them to other doctors, physical therapists, and generally anyone who wants to see them. Everyone comments on what great work he did. Better yet I'm functioning normally just a few months later, and believe me it was a BAD break (well two breaks). Best of all, I've had VERY little pain. I mean we're talking almost zero. I haven't even had to take a Tylenol since just a few days after surgery! Thank you SO MUCH Dr. Burnikel!!Patient Submitted Review
Apr-2018
I had seen Dr. Burnikel at his previous office for a fracture and he made a great impression on me as being a very talented Doctor. When I started having knee trouble I knew that I wanted to see him for this issue. I made an effort to find him at his new medical group and couldn't be more pleased with the time he took to explain the many options I have with my medical care. I highly recommend. The entire office staff is very friendly and courteous.Patient Submitted Review
Jul-2017
Dr. Burnikel has been great from the pre-op process through the surgery and now the post-op period. He works very hard for his patients, and is very knowledgable and has a lot of experience.Patient Submitted Review
May-2017
I'm thoroughly impressed with Dr. Burnikels quality of care! I've seen him twice now and he was extremely efficient and ensured I understood my predicament. His follow through has been ideal and he has made sure I'm on my way to healing! Being from LA, I was skeptical about finding a new Dr. here in San Diego. I'm truly blessed to have been appointed Dr. Burnikel! He gives you a plan to heal, he doesn't just put ya on meds. He breaks everything down so you understand! He also has a great staff!Read more
Patient Submitted Review
Aug-2025
Dr. David Burnikel is an amazing surgeon, and I feel extremely grateful he was my surgeon for both of my TKRs. I felt confident in his ability as a surgeon from our first consultation and am so pleased with the outcomes of both my replacements! He is always professional and truly cares about his patients. At my post-op appointment today, he listened intently and fully answered all of my questions to my complete satisfaction Thank you, Dr. Burnikel, for doing such a fabulous job repairing my knees and providing me with a new lease on life! I am immensely appreciative for you as well as your wonderful staff!