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Health and Wellness
Where I go to keep myself and my family (to include my furry family) healthy
18 Places
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Fairfax, VA, United States
Anna’s 5-star review: I recently had to have a root canal, not a pleasant experience or one I was looking forward to. I had never had one before and had always been told they were painful. Dr. Kim explained everything in detail, was very gentle and completely put me at ease. She ensured I was numbed sufficiently and kept checking on my comfort throughout the procedure. I experienced absolutely no pain at all during the procedure. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. You always know your cost (after insurance) upfront so there are never any surprises. The office is super clean and comfortable. Dr. Kim is the best dentist I've ever been too. I would recommend Pender Dental to anyone looking for a great dentist in the Fairfax area! -
Anna’s 5-star review: I originally chose to visit Dr. Butler when I moved to NOVA 4 years ago because she was a preferred provider under my vision care plan and convenient to where I lived at the time. I have been so pleased with the service I have received and continue to see her even though I moved further out in the burbs. I feel like I get a thorough exam and trust her with the health of my eyes. I like the fact that she is open to patient preferences as well. I have recently started to have a bit of trouble with fine print - some optometrists would insist on writing a prescription for bifocal lenses but Dr. Butler talked to me about my preferences and we agreed using readers was the best option for me. Just this last year she recommended toric lenses as she detected a bit of astigmatism. I was somewhat leery as the contacts are thicker and I thought they would be uncomfortable. She suggested I try a pair (which she gave me) and compare to what I was currently wearing. Within a day the torics were feeling good and I sensed a slight improvement in my vision so I went ahead and ordered them. Even my husband has started seeing Dr. Butler. Her hours are convenient and she is even open on Saturdays if you are unable to make it during the week. -
Anna’s 5-star review: I've been using Target Optical since moving to Northern VA 4 years ago. I originally chose them because they were a preferred provider for my insurance and the proximity to my home. Over the years I have had lenses replaced in my existing frames, purchased a new set of funky fun frames for a very reasonable price and continued to order my contact lenses at this location. I even got my husband a pair of Maui Jim's here. They offer designer frames as well as their own brand so the selection is not bad at all for such a small store. If you haven't tried their cleaning wipes, you should. My sunglasses and glasses have never been so clean. The team is super friendly and helpful. They remember you on return visits. They offer professional service. I've really had great experiences here and Target Optical will continue to be my go-to for all my eye care needs. -
Anna’s 5-star review: I am thrilled to have found Companion Paws! I have two 14 year old cats and had been taking them to Pender since I moved up to Northern VA. After moving out to South Riding, that was just too far to go. My poor cats HATE riding in the car and both sing (make that howl) through the entire trip making it a nerve wracking ride for me and them. So my husband and I were driving around in the country one day and saw a mobile vet service van. Who knew vets made house calls? I decided to look for a service in Chantilly and turned to Yelp where I found Companion Paws. Not many reviews yet, but all positive and genuine so I decided to give them a try. I am the crazy cat lady, or so my husband tells me, so their welfare and care is a highest priority. Don't tell anyone, but a vet was able to convince me it was necessary for my cat's blood pressure to be checked at $80 a pop much to my husband's chagrin! I made the appointment and was told they couldn't give an exact time, but they would arrive within a time range of one hour - totally understandable since they are making house calls. Dr. Foster and David showed up on time and I immediately felt at ease with them as did my cats judging how they were sniffing around. Both Dr. Foster and David were very good with my cats and made the typical stressful annual exam a non-event. I feel very confident they received a thorough exam. Dr. Foster had no problem taking the time to answer some questions and give recommendations about one of my cats less than desirable behaviors either. No stress, knowledgeable, caring service! Here is where I was surprised. I was expecting this service to be expensive. After all Companion Paws is coming to my home, using their gas and all at my convenience. No sticker shock at all when I was given the price for this service. The price was extremely reasonable and the cats even got a free pedicure. I will be using Companion Paws going forward - they have my highest recommendations!
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Anna’s 5-star review: I moved to NOVA nearly three years ago from the Hampton Roads area. Before I moved, my only pet sitters were my wonderful friends and neighbors who were cat people themselves AND I had known for years. My two cats are my children - you can ask my husband who calls me "the crazy cat lady" (all in good fun of course). I would not be able to enjoy time away from our home if I did not know my cats were very well taken care of. Enter All Friends Pet Care - We've had two sitters and both have been wonderful. Unfortunately when we moved to South Riding, Carolin could no longer sit for us as it was out of her area. However, I contacted All Friends and they set up a meeting with James right away. Both Carolin and James are great with our cats. I never have to worry about their well being. As another reviewer has said they will even water plants, open blinds and bring in the mail. My boy kitty tends to hoover his food and sometimes purge, but both Carolin and James have been great about keeping things clean and reaching out to me immediately if there are any concerns about my cats well being.. The office staff is always very friendly and responsive. Their website is user friendly - you can schedule your services online. I couldn't be happier with a pet sitting service. Thanks to All Friends and their great sitters, we can leave home without worrying about our cats or their care. -
Anna’s 3-star review: I am a gym snob - this I have learned about myself in the past few months. I joined Snap Fitness because it was close to home and convenient. Even though they don't offer the variety of the larger gyms, they had all the basics I needed and all for a very reasonable price. They allow you to work out anytime (24/7) just using your access card to get in. They are staffed a few hours in the morning and again afternoon to early evening primarily for sales. The people staffing the gym are not equipped to provide fitness advice or answer fitness questions. The staff was always friendly though. The equipment is somewhat limited as this is a small place - a few cardio machines (treadmill, glider and stationary bike), some basic weight machines and free weights. No classes are offered. Although Snap Fitness offered all the basics for getting back in shape, I found myself making excuses not to go. I missed the variety of equipment offered in the larger gyms and the availability of top of the line equipment with all the bells and whistles. I missed the convenience of having towels provided, a shower available and a locker room in which to secure my belongings. I started noticing the odor of old sweat in Snap Fitness and how sticky my hands felt after using the equipment. My gut tells me it looked clean on the surface, but no one was wiping down the machines on a regular basis. I ended up cancelling my membership (easy process by the way) and moving back to a larger gym with all the amenities. I wish I could have made Snap Fitness work because again they offered all the basics and at a reasonable price. However, I need to enjoy going to the place where I work out and that was not happening here. If you are looking for a bare bones gym where you can work out at your convenience and don't need the amenities of a larger gym, Snap Fitness may be the place for you. It's not a bad place, it's just not my place. -
Anna’s 5-star review: This is not the type of place anyone wants to review - if you are spending time here, it usually means a loved one is terminally ill. Our family spent four days here with our loved one before she passed. While the experience was a very sad one, the facility and staff are truly remarkable. The facility features 12 private, very comfortable rooms. Each room is set up much like a hotel with the exception of having a hospital bed and basic medical needs such as oxygen. Each room had a huge window to let in light and bird feeder just outside to entertain patients and family members alike. Aside from the private rooms there were several comfortable sitting areas with couches, TVs, games and gas fireplaces. The cafeteria offered meals to patients and guests three times per day. Additionally there was a small kitchen area available if you wished to prepare some food yourself. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate were always available as were small snack items such as muffins, brownies or toast in the morning. The facility even offered a computer room and free wifi if there was a need to get online. There are no visiting hours here. You can spend all day and all night with your loved one. No limits on the number of guests. We were even offered cots since we were spending nights at the facility. The grounds around the facility were park-like, beautiful and well maintained. There were two sunrooms, one at the end of each wing, if you wanted to enjoy the outdoors without going outside. The outdoor area featured several sitting areas as well as a short walking path and a playground for kids. The staff here is simply wonderful. Everyone is a volunteer with the exception of the nurses. The nurses provided the most caring and dignified care to someone nearing the end of life. I especially have to call out Liz and Dora who not only took care of our loved one, but also provided compassion and true caring to the family as well. I just don't have the words to express my true appreciation and gratitude for making a difficult situation as comfortable as possible. -
Anna’s 4-star review: I have a love/hate relationship with Lifetime Fitness. So where does the hate come in - I have the hardest time getting in the car to make the trip. It's an easy drive from South Riding, but I apparently am a procrastinator that would prefer to sit her lazy butt at home. Once there though, the love affair begins. This place appeals to the gym snob in me so I absolutely love the facility. Tons of amenities, all the newest equipment, 2 pools to include one outdoors, snack bar, spa, clean locker rooms, towels, tons of classes, personal trainers, events - truly, whatever you want your gym experience to be, you can make it happen here. Once I am here, I really enjoy my workout. Rarely do I have to wait for a machine and this is even visiting during peak times. The variety of cardio and weight machines is outstanding. The staff has always been friendly - we are greeted with a smile every time we come in and when we leave, someone always yells goodbye. We even had a good experience with the sales staff. It is expensive, but in my opinion worth the expense (plus the expense is a great motivator to keep on coming). -
Anna’s 4-star review: One of the perks of joining Lifetime Fitness is the discounted spa services you receive during your first month. I chose to have a facial while my husband had a much needed massage. The spa is inviting and clean. I was offered water as I waited for my aesthetician to take me back. Appointments started right on time - in fact my husband's masseuse was waiting for him when we arrived. I have sensitive skin so I typically have a calming facial to combat the ruddiness in my face. That is what my aesthetician recommended this time as well. I have to admit when we were done, my skin did look less ruddy. I love the shoulder/neck massage during a facial and I typically like a heavy touch. She did not disappoint - great massage. When it was all done, I just felt so relaxed. I also liked the fact that no products were pushed during the facial. That's not always the case. I really appreciated just being able to relax without the hard sell on their products. Really a great experience. This is a full service salon/medspa. They offer hair and nail services as well as massage, facial, peels and even laser treatments. Child care is available in the gym and I believe if you are a non member, you get a free day pass to the gym on the day of your service. -
Anna’s 5-star review: Running....something I haven't done for a long time, but something I wanted to take up again. I had purchased some Reeboks some time ago and while they were fine for the gym and walking, every time I tried to run in them I would have issues with my calves cramping and various muscle aches. I know this was partly due to the way my foot struck the ground and decided if I was serious about this goal, I needed to get a better shoe. Enter Potomac River Running - the associate that day was in training according to his name tag. I wish I could remember his name because he did an absolutely wonderful job helping me. He listened to my goals, concerns and the problems I was encountering. He then got to work, first measuring my foot. I was shocked to find out I was wearing a shoe that would be considered too small. Next, my feet and legs were filmed as I was walking and running on the treadmill. Once done, we watched the film back while he told me what was wrong with my stride (supination) and gave me pointers for running with a better stride. I had several pairs to choose from and all were comfortable so I narrowed it down and got back on the treadmill to see which felt better. I was also encouraged to try them outside - nice touch! The shoes were expensive, but not hurting myself while attempting to start running again is so worth it! You may find a bigger selection elsewhere, but you won't find better customer service or a better fit. I was very pleased with my experience here and when I need new shoes, I will be back to this store. -
Aldie, VA, United States
Anna’s 5-star review: As I've gotten older, I have lost my tolerance for having to spend an excessive amount of time getting ready in the morning. I was never extremely talented at putting on make-up anyway so I usually went with the basics, mascara and maybe a bit of bronzer, when I was heading out. Now that I've moved to NOVA and work remotely 100% of the time, I have even less motivation to put on that mascara. The result - tired looking eyes which does nothing for my self esteem! I have read with interest a couple of rave reviews Gretchen P. has written about her experiences with eyelash extensions and have been on the fence for quite some time. To be honest, I live in the burbs and wanted to find a place closer to me that would provide a similar experience. Even though I had seen Groupons offered for lash extensions, the reviews for those places were not the best and there is absolutely no way I was taking a chance with my eyes. I found Liz (Lovely Lashes) through old fashioned internet research. I checked her Yelp reviews (all filtered) against others, checked out her website & Facebook page, looked at pictures and basically procrastinated until I finally built up the courage to call. I made an appointment for that same week. Lovely Lashes operates out of Liz's home. She has a comfortable room set up in the basement with everything needed to make your lashes look their best in a soothing, relaxing environment. She will work with you to get you the look you desire all the while keeping the health of your natural lashes at the forefront. For this first time, I wanted something a bit more dramatic as my natural lashes are dark and somewhat long, but do not hold a curl. She gave me a set of very tasteful lashes which although would not be mistaken for completely natural are not over the top. I have had them now for 5 days. I've noticed a couple of lashes shed, but not enough to change the overall appearance of my lashes. It's great to wake up in the morning and not see those tired, sad eyes! I was there about 2 1/2 hours. I recommend you wear something light and comfortable as you will be lying on your back for all that time. Liz talked to me throughout and let me know what she was doing. I also appreciated that her products were quality - I noticed no odor to the glue as other reviewers mentioned in reviews of other salons. The lashes she uses are synthetic and hold their curl quite well. They do not feel the least bit heavy on my eyes - to be honest I hardly notice them unless I look in the mirror. At this point I am so excited about having the lashes and getting ready in the morning is even easier. Liz did say they typically need to be filled every two to three weeks. I am being ultra cautious with mine - no rubbing, leaving them alone, no oily products - and we'll see how they do. I am absolutely considering keeping them on a more permanent basis - my only concern being cost of upkeep if they have to be filled more frequently. I will say I thought Liz's prices were reasonable and comparable to what you would pay elsewhere. She is offering a 20% discount on a full set with Yelp check-in. If you are on the fence and live in the burbs, give her a try. You will be happy you did. -
Anna’s 3-star review: I wanted to treat my husband to a Pedicure and Solace was convenient and close to home. He had missed our last appointment at our regular salon as he was out of town so he was due. They happened to be running a special - I believe for Father's Day - for a more upscale pedicure at a cost of $70 which I found a bit high, but heck, he's worth it! They were able to take him right away on a Saturday mid afternoon. He was offered a glass of wine while his feet were soaking which was a nice touch. He enjoyed the pedicure and massage - actually stated the massage was one of the best he had on his feet and calves since the technician put some muscle behind it and was not rushed at all. The pedicure also included a scrub and paraffin wax treatment. He was happy with the entire service except the callous removal. I was shocked to find out they had used a razor on his feet. I was under the impression that VA licensing laws prohibited this due to sanitary reasons. Additionally, he had cuts on his feet from the razor. His feet were tender for a few days, but thankfully no infection. Three stars for the service he received, but I would caution to watch what they use on your feet for callous removal. -
Anna’s 5-star review: I have two 17 year old kitties who are my babies. Yes, I freely admit to being the crazy cat lady! I was having an in-home vet visit and I was very happy with their services, but then experienced three different times my cats had need of emergency care. I called Aldie Vet before heading out and each time someone was available almost immediately to see my cat. I have had experiences with several veterinarians at this practice and there is not one I would not trust with my kitty's life. Dr. Luce has seen my Bailey on emergency visits now twice. Dr. Griffing did a cardiovascular work up on my Buca before his surgery and I was truly amazed at the time she took and detail she provided me about his health and what was going on. Dr. Barnes performed surgery on my Buca to remove a small lump on the side of his mouth. I have to admit I was really nervous about him requiring surgery due to his age, but Dr. Barnes and Dr. Griffing really helped calm my fears. Dr. Hood has been seeing my Bailey about her kidney issues for a month now. I truly believe everyone at this practice holds the care of your furry family member in the highest regard. I see a number of reviews stating the practice wanted to run unnecessary tests. I have not experienced this at all. As Dr. Luce once told me, we can treat the symptoms, but the ultimate goal is to find the underlying cause and I totally agree with that philosophy. Every time tests were needed, they were fully explained, we were presented with alternatives and provided costs so that we could make a sound decision for the care of our cat. For example this test would be nice to do, but this one is absolutely required to diagnose your pet's illness. I've never felt pressured into agreeing to any services at all. Each and every person I have encountered here is kind and compassionate. Communication from the staff is just fantastic.They have a state of the art facility. While some may say their costs are high, I've paid as much or more at other veterinary practices. I am a huge fan of Aldie Veterinary Hospital and I am so thankful they are near my home. -
Anna’s 5-star review: Here it is nearly 4 years after my first review and I am still seeing Lee at Divine Nail Spa. I've even convinced my husband to come in for pedicures with me. He loves them! I wish more men would treat themselves and take care of those feet! Lee and her team are the best! I could not ask for better, friendlier service and it's such an inviting and relaxing atmosphere in which to unwind. New pedicure chairs are comfortable and stylish. The place is beautiful. Pride of ownership is so evident. So recently I've decided on a change from the pink and white acrylic to color. I couldn't be happier. The selection of colors here, both regular and gel, is fantastic! My nails looks spectacular and the gel polish is long lasting, smooth and oh so shiny. What I especially love about Divine Nail Spa is how clean it is kept. The technicians are meticulous about making sure everything is spic and span. Brand new sterilized tools are unwrapped with each service. Pedicure bowls are meticulously cleaned. I've never felt as though my service has been rushed at all. I am able to relax and enjoy. They do get busy, but I always make an appointment and have never had to wait long. As far as I am concerned Divine Nail Spa is first class all the way. -
Anna’s 4-star review: I had to bring my mom in while home visiting as she had developed what was later determined an allergic reaction to something in her environment. We showed up shortly after they opened and there was already a projected 1 1/2 hour wait. However, they offer a texting service so you don't have to wait in the office as long as you can make it back within 25 minutes of receiving the text. We really appreciated that service as we live within a 10-15 minute drive of the clinic. Once we received the text, we stopped back in and it was time to fill out the intake paperwork. Mom was seen shortly after we completed her paperwork. Everyone from the front desk staff to the doctors on duty were friendly and professional. Mom was a bit nervous - I had joked with her about how they would just give her a shot in the butt and send her home (she hates shots). Well, a shot of steroids was exactly what was prescribed and mom was less than thrilled. I will say the staff did all they could to alleviate her concerns and help her relax. We were very pleased with the service Doctors on Duty provided. Once we returned for her appointment, she received a fairly thorough evaluation and was on her way in a reasonable amount of time. The staff out front took care of all her insurance while we were in back with the doctors. Check out was a breeze. Although it wasn't something we wanted to do while home visiting, it was a fairly painless process to get mom checked out. Thank you Doctors on Duty! -
Bethesda, MD, United States
Anna’s 5-star review: We have made several visits to Walter Reed this year due to a diagnosis which required a couple of surgeries. Our experience has been extremely positive each time. The doctors, nurses and staff who work here are exceedingly knowledgeable, professional and really care about your care. It's a very busy hospital and sometimes there is a wait, but in our experience we have always been seen on time. Waits in the pharmacy are to be expected especially during peak times, but to be honest waits at the Fairfax Health Center can be longer. I truly don't understand the complaints about parking. There are numerous covered parking lots with plenty of levels and no permit required. Depending on when you arrive, you may have to park on a higher level, but is that really something to complain about? In my opinion, this is the best place to get specialized care in the region. I'm so happy they are still serving retirees! -
Anna’s 5-star review: I managed to injure my knee and to be honest was having difficulty with simple every day things like going up and down stairs, getting in and out of a chair and even getting in my car. Some days the pain was pretty intense. My doctor referred me for a MRI, but until then suggested I begin physical therapy. I was referred to Chantilly Physical Therapy by Tricare. Every person I've encountered here has been kind and helpful. The therapists I have worked with have been wonderful. They really took the time to listen to my concerns and goals for recovery. They showed me exercises and stretches that specifically helped my situation. In just a few sessions, I had a marked improvement in what I was able to do and now after 15 sessions, I am feeling like myself again. I never would have believed that physical therapy would completely rid me of the pain, but it did. Thanks so much to everyone at Chantilly Physical Therapy! -
Anna’s 4-star review: I am a military retiree so have had my fair share of being seen in military health care facilities. When I first arrived in the Northern Virginia area, there was no "room at the inn" so I had to be pick a civilian primary care physician. I was very happy with the care I received from her and through the Inova health system. However, when she moved to TX, I had no choice but to go through Tricare to find another doctor. Imagine my surprise when I was told that there were openings at Fairfax Health Center and I had no choice but to return to military health care. With that being said, I am honestly surprised by the bad reviews of the Fairfax Health Center. Both my husband and I have visited both for more routine check-ups and specialty appointments. Neither of us has ever had a bad experience. Our doctor, Dr. George, is caring and thorough. If I have to leave her a message, I usually receive a call back the same day. I have found the staff at reception to be efficient and friendly although for the life of me I can't figure out why we have to fill in a paper form when the nurses confirm "all that is already in the computer" and I have never been asked to actually turn the forms in. The nursing staff who take my blood pressure, weight, etc. are the sweetest, most friendly bunch of people I have encountered in a health care facility. I have visited the pharmacy on more than one occasion and will say even when they are busier, the service is fairly quick. Take a number, turn in your prescription and have a seat. Within a few minutes, my number is called, I am given my medication and sent on my way with whatever questions I might have had answered. Visiting the lab to have blood drawn has never been a good experience for me with long waits and my fear of needles. The lab at Fairfax Health Center is so efficient and the ladies who draw blood are so good at what they do. I barely know I am having my blood drawn. The facility itself appears to be fairly newly renovated and so many services are available under one roof; Lab, Pharmacy, Ophthalmology, Radiology, etc. I honestly can't complain about being assigned here and am happy with the care I have received to date. Not a place I look forward to visiting, but at least I don't dread having to go to the doctor!