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Dr. Krishna Topalli, MD

Dr. Krishna Topalli, MD

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation*
30+ years of experience

Dr. Krishna Topalli, MD is a physical medicine & rehabilitation physician in Norfolk, VA and has over 30 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal University in 1994. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Sentara Careplex Hospital and Bon Secours-Southampton Medical Center. He is accepting new patients.

3.9 Star Rating
Based on 76 reviews 3.9 Star Rating (76 reviews)

Practice

721 Fairfax Ave Ste 300 Norfolk, VA 23507

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At a Glance

  • Area of Expertise
    Dr. Topalli specializes in the area of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. See board certifications
  • Trustworthy
    Patients said this doctor is trustworthy. See reviews
  • Practices at Top Hospital
    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ See hospitals
  • Hospital Satisfaction
    Patients said they were highly satisfied at this doctor's hospital. See hospitals
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Dr. Topalli's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Topalli

3.9
76 ratings, 27 with a written review
5 star
68%
68%
4 star
4%
4%
3 star
1%
1%
2 star
3%
3%
1 star
24%
24%

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Awful Provider;
I was referred to this physician by my orthopedic surgeons office. When I initially met him, he asked me why was I there. He asked what have I had for pain, I told him. He didn’t ask if it helped. He just said ok and prescribed that drugstore . So after months of taking the meds I told him it wasn’t working and he said, “I can’t help you. We don’t do opioids here.” So I suffered for months. Dr. Topali was not hearing me. He did not care. He would take phone calls, during his visit with me, on his cell phone. He cursed during our visits. He asked same irrelevant questions during every visit and just continued giving me medication that wasn’t helping me. Fast forward after about a year, I transitioned to another clinic with a physician that actually read my notes from my orthopedic doctor and pcp, he listened to me, then he talked to me explaining what my options were. I’m dealing and learning to cope with as much relief as possible on my current meds. I know I won’t ever be pain free.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Jul 30, 2024
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Horrible! Horrible! Horrible!
Prior to me making the appointment, I was interviewed by the intake person, which was no problem, I understand they have a job to do and particular questions to ask; however, if I tell you no once, how many times do I answer the same question? "Are you looking for opioids?" That's offensive to me, especially when I've never in my life failed not one drug test, check my records. I get to the appt., and in comes Dr. Topalli, no introduction, just, "How many times have I seen you?" I answer, never. "Why do you look familiar to me?" I answer I couldn't tell you. This guy proceeds to ask me why I was wearing the jewelry I had on, and why was I in there? He was SO RUDE, that as I began to tell him I wear what I want to wear, how I want to wear it. I told him why I was there again, he asked am I looking for opioids? And he can't help me. I've never been treated or spoken to so disrespectfully in my life! I don't care if there's a drug epidemic, everyone who's in CHRONIC PAIN isn't an ADDICT!
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Tori Hollingsworth – Jul 15, 2022
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Very unprofessional and belittles his patients and staff where everyone can hear him. Does not wear a mask at all and is constantly late never showing up on time but expects us to be on time. The door to the room is always left open so no conversations are private. Treats everyone like a criminal, like we are not in pain. Tries to strong arm you into taking his MLS laser therapy and if you don’t do it he won’t fill your prescription, the therapy is not covered under insurance and cost &150 per treatment. Save yourself the trouble and don’t see this doctor. There are plenty more out there who treat their patients with respect and actually care about us and not treat us like a cash cow.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Apr 02, 2021
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The staff and Dr. Topalli are kind and attentive. Dr. Topalli employs a myriad of tratment options to address pain issues. The office offers MLS laser therapy for a wide range of ailments which helped my longstanding back and leg pain. I would 100% recommend.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Shaunesta – Dec 16, 2020
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Worst doctor I’ve ever seen. Doesn’t take time to listen, argues with everything you say, acts unprofessionally and inappropriately, and literally begged me to leave a review on this site - then increased my pain meds when I agreed to do so. Guess he thought I’d give him a glowing review in exchange for him giving me more pain meds. On top of all this, Topalli, his assistant, and some of his staff don’t even bother to wear a mask. Covid is raging and this crazy doctor won’t wear a mask. In a medical setting, a medical doctor won’t wear a mask. Do yourself a favor and find a real doctor, avoid this quack.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Avoid This Quack, he’s Horrible – Nov 25, 2020
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Dr Topalli is such a great listener. He always makes sure I’m doing okay. Very thorough. His staff is also incredible. Some times he gets behind but it’s because he’s so caring. So thankful to see him for my pain management.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Stephanie – Aug 28, 2020
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My first impression of this doctor, was amazing!! He immediately showed that he cared and wasn’t judgmental. He immediately helped with my pain and his bedside manner was very caring!!! I love him as a doctor and will highly recommend him!!!!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Nigella kendrick – Aug 28, 2020
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I have left a review in 2018, but I just wanted to tell a little more of my story! As I said in my last review I'm a retired nurse... was a nurse for 42 years! but I have continued to be very pleased with Dr. Tapolli and his staff! i have been to 5 different pain clinics in 10 years> one in Hawaii one in Knoxville TN and several here in Norfolk and VA Beach. he does the best epidurals I have ever had ( and I've had a lot). He's also a caring individual, very competent Doctor, and gives you the meds you need! But not too much> Before I went to Dr. Tapolli I was on 30 mg of Instant release oxycodone every 6 hours. then I went to another clinic and was put on 20 mg of IR oxycodone. Dr. Tapolli is the only one that got it right.!! With less oxycodone and a long acting narcotic every `12 hours with a med for break through pain!I had both of my knees replaced when I was 49.... bad osteoathritis and now my whole cervical and lumbar spine is fused. Try Dr. Tapolli he'll work wonders great staf
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Robin McGuffin – Dec 09, 2019
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I am Active duty Navy and have been seen due to back pain radiating down my left leg. Dr. Topalli has seen and treated me for 4 months. I have gone from unbearable days of pain, to being able to manage it with Dr. Topallis help. He has diagnosed and treated me and I and close to having full range of movement back with minimal pain. His bed side manner is great to were I feel completely comfortable asking questions and telling him everything I need too. He listens and explains what his thoughts are about your ailments. I will continue to seek treatment from him if the need arises.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Charles Cash – Nov 20, 2019
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I have been seeing Dr. Topalli for over a year for management of my chronic pain issues. After neck surgery in 2017, I continued to experience chronic pain. I also have other chronic pain issues with my back and hips. I was very frustrated and discouraged until I started treating with Dr. Topalli. He has been very understanding and takes time to listen to my complaints and concerns. My treatment has consisted of various medications, injections, imaging, and specialist referrals as needed. It is very rare that I have to wait to be seen when I arrive for my appointments. On rare occasions where he has needed to reschedule my appointment, I was able to be seen earlier rather than later, which I understand is very rare for a pain management physician. He shows genuine concern for his patients and their overall health and ability to function. His office staff has always been very friendly and helpful. If you are experiencing chronic pain issues, I highly recommend Dr. Topalli.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
R. Warren – Nov 04, 2019
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I retired as a 29 year Navy Commander in December 2018. I have lower back pain that has been around for several years and referred to Dr. Topalli for my followup pain management. Since I have been under his care about 10 months now, it has all been positive and I am more than satisfied with the results so far. There was no need for surgery, however, Dr. Topalli did provide injections to key areas in the lower hip and back that have provided adequate relief so far after repetitious use over the years in the Navy. Also, I'm at half the pain medication dosage with a low dose muscle relaxant. So far, this has been the most controlled my pain has been in years, plus I'm sure being retired helps as well in not aggravating or exacerbating existing conditions in the lower back area. Otherwise, I will continue seeing Dr. Topalli and if one treatment no longer works, I'm sure another one will.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Rob T – Oct 25, 2019
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Dr. Topalli takes the time to listen to your issues/concerns. He works in a timely matter and asks you how you are feeling that day. Highly recommend him to any of my co-workers who are in need of pain management.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sep 17, 2019
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Dr Topalli is a terrible doctor. He actually, truly, left me in more pain than I had to begin with. The only time he discussed anything, even my pain, with me was the very first visit. He never asked if my pain was getting better, or if I was responding to treatment. All treatments were done by his nurse, who hadn't been fully trained and was going through one of those "become a nurse in 6 months" programs. After my last visit I collapsed in tears in the hallway outside of his office.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Feb 28, 2019
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The Dr is extremely unprofessional. He will actually answer his cell phone while he’s in the patients room. He’s constantly late. Doesn’t care. Doesn’t even bother to show up to the office on time for his own job. He was 3 hours late one morning and the office staff didn’t even care. They had their tech guy check me in and do vitals. They lost my medical records to include the MRI I brought in. Got another referral from my Dr only to have Tricare put me back with them. Thankfully I was a
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
6 others found this helpful
Helpful
Liz Stewart – Nov 29, 2018
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My problem isn't with the Dr., but with his extremely rude male nurse. So much so, that I'll never go back after two visits. I had insurance trouble (due to the Tricare Prime contractor change to Humana). Unbeknownst to me, I was disenrolled although my referral had been approved. The issue was 'sorted out' during the first visit and I was seen. Same happened on the second visit and the nurse treated me as if I was a con artist trying to swindle them. Beware. The office is grungy, needs update.
What went well
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Long wait times
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Unhappy Former Patient in Chesapeake, VA – Jul 07, 2018
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Dr. Topalli takes the time to listen. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family. He looks to take care of the mind, body, and spirit of his patients.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Jina Cannon in CHESAPEAKE, VA – Mar 15, 2018
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Worst experience ever, Dr. Topalli was always late for the scheduled appointments to then rush and get you out the door. One time I showed up to my appointment and he was in Florida and the office was full of patients and they had not said anything to them. Everyone that goes in there for an appointment knows that they'll be waiting for about one hour, it's an on going joke in that office. Dr. Topalli is a joke, he should not have a license to practice medicine !!!!! And the people working in hi
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Office environment
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
Camden – Nov 28, 2017
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In my past experience with Pain Management doctors have been into pushing pain medication and not in trying to solve the pain. While I think Dr. Topalli and his staff are very kind and well organized and always ready to make your appointment convenient as possible, it was their strive to not mask pain but solve what the cause was that really impressed me the most . I have had a 20 yr problem with my back and hips. He has done more in the months seeing him than any other doctor without narcotics
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
kelliejo35 in Chesapeake, VA – Aug 10, 2017
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hi i linda i been coming here to see Dr.Tapalli for almost 2 years now i dont want to go any where else i have came from walking on a walker to walking on my owe i feel really good with the medication he gives me...i come here tell him whats going on he gets right onit..i really love coming here i wouldnt change a thing he does i love it here.. i was about to give up on life until i found him..i give him a 5 star...its days i want to cry in pain i make a call to him he gets on it..
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
linda in Chesapeake, VA – Jun 09, 2017
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Outstanding Patient care with Dr. Topalli. He takes time with me no matter what I'm scheduled for. He makes sure that I understand what's wrong and what he is doing for me. His staff is courteous , congenial and kind. I would reccomend them to anyone suffering from chronic pain. Thank you all!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Betty in Moyock NC – Jan 11, 2017
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About Me

care philosophy

We provide compassionate and detailed patient care in our pleasant new office. Our approach to pain relief includes the use of state of the art interventional techniques, rehabilitative methods and the judicious use of medications to minimize opioid...read more
  • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

  • Interventional Pain Medicine

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Georgia Pain Physicians Pain Managment

    Fellowship Hospital, 2009
  • University Of North Carolina Hospitals

    Residency Hospital, 2004
  • Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal University

    Medical School, 1994
  • Andhra University

    Undergraduate School, 1986
American Board of Medical Specialties®
American Board of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation®
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.
  • English

  • Hindi

  • Spinal Cord Stimulation as a new advanced treatment option for Chronic pain syndromes like Post laminectomy syndrome and Neuropathic pain syndrome., 2010

  • Press Gainey Survey, 2002

Locations

Practice

Office721 Fairfax Ave Ste 300 Norfolk, VA 23507
1

Practice

Urology of Virginia PC676 Battlefield Blvd N Ste B Chesapeake, VA 23320
2

Affiliated Hospitals

  • Sentara Princess Anne Hospital

    2025 Glenn Mitchell Dr
    Virginia Beach, VA 23456
    Recipient of 9
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ (2024)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    86%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    2% higher than the national average

    80%
    Patients would recommend the hospital to friends and family

    15% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

    600 Gresham Dr
    Norfolk, VA 23507
    Recipient of 7
    hospital awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    85%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% higher than the national average

    78%
    Patients said that doctors always listened to them and explained things well

    2% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
  • Sentara Leigh Hospital

    830 Kempsville Rd
    Norfolk, VA 23502
    Recipient of 8
    hospital awards

    Patient Safety Excellence Award™ (2025, 2024, 2023)

    Top in the nation for providing excellence in patient safety by preventing infections, medical errors, and other preventable complications

    View all awards

    How patients felt about the care they received at this hospital.

    83%
    Patients said they were given information about recovering at home

    1% lower than the national average

    77%
    Patients said that nurses always listened to them and explained things well

    2% higher than the national average

    View all patient feedback
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