Dr. Raj Rao, MD
Spine Specialist
409.4 mi · 2300 M St NW, 5th Fl, Washington, DC 20037
At a glance
4.88 stars (154 reviews)
98% are satisfied with this provider ·
Has 20+ years of experience
Graduated from Seth G.S. Medical College, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
Works at GWMFA Orthopaedics
2 office locations · View practice profile
Affiliated with The George Washington University Hospital
4.88
154 reviews
Bedside manner
4.9
Wait time
4.4
Recent reviews
He was highly attentive to my concerns, clear in communicating his procedure and quick in handling my case.
December 14, 2020Initials hidden
Dr. Rao was quick and to the point and helped me figure out a lead & next steps for a pain in my back that's been difficult to deal with. Highly recommended.
More than 1 year agoJames T.Verified patient
Office location
George Washington Medical Faculty Associates
409.4 mi · 2300 M St NW, 5th Fl, Washington, DC, 20037
Raj Rao does not participate in Zocdoc to offer online booking at this time
Similar providers on Zocdoc
Top-rated
Closest to you
Available today
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 30Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 30Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
2.5 mi3301 New Mexico Avenue NW, Suite 248, Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
2.5 mi3301 New Mexico Avenue NW, Suite 248, Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Matthew Piazza, MD
Spine Specialist
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Oliver Tannous, MD
Spine Specialist
4.87267 reviews
2.5 mi106 Irving St NW, Physicians Office Building N Ste 5000, Washington, DC, 20010
Next available: Jul 28
4.87267 reviews
2.5 mi106 Irving St NW, Physicians Office Building N Ste 5000, Washington, DC, 20010
Next available: Jul 28
Dr. Richard Murray, MD
Spine Specialist
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
Popular visit reasons
Back Pain
Back Problems
Neck Pain
Neck Problems
Orthopedic Consultation
Spinal Cord Trauma / Injury
Spine Deformation / Scoliosis
Spine Immobilization
Back Pain
Back Problems
Neck Pain
Neck Problems
More about Dr. Raj Rao, MD
If you are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain or any other emergency, please call 911.
Dr. Raj Rao is Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery at George Washington University, and Chairman of the Department of Othopaedic Surgery. His special interests include spine surgery, minimally invasive spine surgery, surgical management of neck and back disorders, spinal tumors, spine trauma, neck and low back issues, nerve pinching, and cervical radiculopathy and cervical myelopathy. Dr. Rao is on the Board of Directors of the Lumbar Spine Research Society and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the premier association of Orthopaedic Surgeons internationally. He is also Chairman of the US FDA Orthopaedic Devices Panel.
Dr. Rao completed his internship and residency at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. He completed specialized fellowship training in spine surgery at the William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. Dr. Rao previously served as vice-chairman in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery and professor of orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin, and is nationally recognized for his research in spinal and orthopedic disorders. He has had numerous papers published in prestigious scientific journals on spinal biomechanics, injuries to the spine from motor vehicle collisions, the biology and mechanics of spinal fusion, and gait analysis in persons with spinal disorders. He currently serves as associate editor of The Spine Journal and is on the editorial boards of other national and international scientific journals.
Dr. Rao provides careful and thoughtful care for his patients, making sure that all nonoperative options are exhausted before considering surgical intervention.
Education & experience
Education
Medical School - Seth G.S. Medical College, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery
University of Southern California (Internship)
William Beaumont Hospital, Fellowship in Spine Surgery
University of Southern California, Residency in Orthopedic Surgery
Practice
Affiliation
The George Washington University Hospital
Certifications
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Professional memberships
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Lumbar Spine Research Society
American Orthopaedic Association
Awards and publications
2014 David Selby Award for contributing greatly to the art and science of spinal disorder management through service to the North American Spine Society.
“Volunteer Family of the Year Award” – Salvation Army; Wisconsin & Upper Michigan Region.
Achievement Award – exemplary volunteer service to AAOS
Becker's Orthopedic and Spine Review - Top 100 Best Spine Surgeons and Specialists in America
Selected to Best Doctors in America 2014 database
Selected to Best Doctors in America 2013 database
Selected to Best Doctors in America 2011-12 database
Over 250 scientific publications, presentations, book chapters
Background
Languages spoken
English
Gender
Male
NPI number
#1336193358
Raj Rao does not participate in Zocdoc to offer online booking at this time
Similar providers on Zocdoc
Top-rated
Closest to you
Available today
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 30Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 30Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Fred Mo, MD
Spine Specialist
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
4.77282 reviews
1.5 mi3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 1 Gorman, Washington, DC, 20007
Next available: Jun 23Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
2.5 mi3301 New Mexico Avenue NW, Suite 248, Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
2.5 mi3301 New Mexico Avenue NW, Suite 248, Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Matthew Piazza, MD
Spine Specialist
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
Dr. Eve Hoffman, MD
Spine Specialist
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
4.7987 reviews
Washington, DC, 20016
Offers telehealth
Dr. Oliver Tannous, MD
Spine Specialist
4.87267 reviews
2.5 mi106 Irving St NW, Physicians Office Building N Ste 5000, Washington, DC, 20010
Next available: Jul 28
4.87267 reviews
2.5 mi106 Irving St NW, Physicians Office Building N Ste 5000, Washington, DC, 20010
Next available: Jul 28
Dr. Richard Murray, MD
Spine Specialist
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
4.5 mi1625 N George Mason Dr, Ste 445, Arlington, VA, 22205
Offers telehealth
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.88
Wait time
4.43
Bedside manner
4.89
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
154 reviews
Most relevant
Top of his field (dept head), straightforward and surprising advice for my problem, offered follow-up assistance as needed.
June 25, 2017Elizabeth H.Verified patient
The doctor was very personable and knowledgeable. Gave me all pertinent information and alternative options available.
August 2, 2017Phalece B.Verified patient
He is a consummate professional who is thorough, a great listener, understanding, and very candid. I highly recommend him!
February 4, 2016Lee T.Verified patient
I feel heard and sympathized with my condition. He is very kind and makes you feel he truly cares for you as a patient
August 8, 2019Maria Cristina S.Verified patient
Excellent Doctor with great bedside manner. A very thorough exam and straight forward diagnosis and approach.
More than 1 year agoNada M.Verified patient
He was highly attentive to my concerns, clear in communicating his procedure and quick in handling my case.
December 14, 2020Initials hidden
Dr. Rao is an excellent Orthopedist. He is a real authority and expert. His staff are also very helpful.
July 31, 2019Lucy L.Verified patient
Very professional, I have to go through physical therapy for a month and then I have to see him again.
November 4, 2015Cinthia B.Verified patient
He was highly recommended, and I now understand why. Greatly appreciated the time he took with me.
November 18, 2019Initials hidden
Didnt offer any suggestions. Did not explain why I am in soo much pain, and having trouble walking!
October 31, 2019Waldon A.Verified patient
Dr Rao is very professional and kind.
He listens to the patient, and provide guidance.
November 30, 2016Mabel G.Verified patient
He a very good orthopedic doctors he explained everything to me where I understood it
November 29, 2019Antoinette B.Verified patient
Dr Raj Rao is the best Orthopaedic i’ve seen in the States. God bless you dear Dr Rao.
July 16, 2018Marwa A.Verified patient
Dr. Rao is thorough and professional. I trust the suggestions and advice he gave me.
More than 1 year agoGeorge B.Verified patient
Dr. Rao was extremely thorough and explained everything clearly. He is fantastic!
January 25, 2017Linda W.Verified patient
WOnderful physucuan. Very attentive and patient, and skilled in his specialty
More than 1 year agoRobert M.Verified patient
I was really suffering from sciatica related pain & Dr Rao helped me well.
October 4, 2019Nafkote D.Verified patient
the whole staff was very knowledgeable and understanding of my condition
October 5, 2017Initials hidden
Dr. Rao was very pleasant and cared about my health. He is awesome!
October 19, 2017Erica F.Verified patient
Very courteous, professional, calm and excellent in every aspect!
December 17, 2018Priyanjali S.Verified patient
Dr. Rao is the best physician I have visited in 10 years in DC!
July 20, 2020Rocio C.Verified patient
He is caring and very meticulous in the way to treat patients
December 2, 2019Maria Cristina S.Verified patient
Dr. Rao is simply the best, and his staff was also wonderful.
March 29, 2017Hugo Z.Verified patient
Dr. Rao was very thorough and explained everything clearly.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Very good, great information. Bedside manner very good.
More than 1 year agoEP
He takes the time to listen and explain his diagnosis
February 21, 2019Jack M. K.Verified patient
He was very patient and thorough. Highly recommend.
September 11, 2017Ashwin J.Verified patient
very professional, knowledgeable and helpful
February 11, 2021Deborah R.Verified patient
Best doctor I’ve seen in my life!
January 6, 2021Initials hidden
Awesome spine doctor.
September 2, 2020John C.Verified patient
Dr. Rao was quick and to the point and helped me figure out a lead & next steps for a pain in my back that's been difficult to deal with. Highly recommended.
More than 1 year agoJames T.Verified patient
Really took time to understand what was going on
August 10, 2020Initials hidden
Caring sensible and does a great job!
More than 1 year agoJohnny B.Verified patient
Dr Rao spends a lot if time telling you he is important, and you are not. He is rude and arrogant. Not a healer, but a conveyor belt. His staff are also rude. Will never go back.
More than 1 year agoInitials hidden
Thorough exam, answered all my questions.
August 26, 2019Sarah W.Verified patient
With each visit I had to repeat my symptoms to Dr. Rao because he did not take detailed notes in my chart. He also ordered an MRI for the wrong part of my back, which I didn't find out about after coming in for my follow up appointment. This meant another several hours for a new MRI, and then another follow up appointment with him, which of course cost me more money out of pocket. I had to fight a bill I received due to his mistake, but in the end was unable to resolve. In the end he told me I needed to deal with the pain until I wanted surgery, and didn't really give me great suggestions for how to manage the pain in the meantime.
April 10, 2019Initials hidden
Dr. Rao was very considerate, took plenty of time to talk with me about the pain I'm experiencing, and I felt like I had his full attention during the appointment and was not rushed - which is not a common experience in many dr.'s offices. He provided some good pain management suggestions, and made me feel like I could come back at any time to discuss further options, but advocated for conservative common sense treatment. Would definitely recommend.
November 5, 2018Erin I.Verified patient
Dr. Rao is great. He has an amazing bedside manner. Is very compassionate and delivers information in a thoughtful and considerate way. Thank you, Dr Rao!
October 18, 2018Kirsten M.Verified patient
Dr. Rao was very helpful in helping to identify the source of my back pain. He helped reduce my anxiety about the entire situation by providing a plan of action.
September 26, 2018Anna T.Verified patient
Amazing doctor, highly recommend him!
September 27, 2018Initials hidden
Awesome
July 3, 2018John C.Verified patient
The staff, facility, and Dr. Rao all contributed to my having a very pleasant and comfortable visit. I scheduled an 8 AM appointment with Dr. Rao because I had been experiencing intermittent pain and stiffness in my lower left back for two years and 3 visits to the chiropractor only seemed to exacerbate the pain. Like others have mentioned, the staff members are efficient. I was taken to the exam room before even completing my forms, and Dr. Rao came in shortly after. Later, the process of receiving an X-ray was also swift. Throughout the visit, Dr. Rao's bedside manner was consistently gentle and pleasant. He was comforting and confident in his expertise without being arrogant. I was most impressed by his humility: even though my spine was revealed to be fine, he did not hastily dismiss me as many other doctors tend to. Instead, he discussed it with me in a non-condescending manner. He even took the time to show me how to perform an unconventional but highly-effective hamstring stretch with good form before I left. I also appreciated his honesty in telling me that surgery was too extreme a solution for my level of pain. Dr. Rao is one of those doctors who will restore your faith in our healthcare system.
The only very minor issue I had was this: originally, I scheduled an appointment by phone and was told that the earliest available appointment for a new patient was over a month out. A month seemed too long a time for me to stress over what might be wrong with my back. However, when I checked ZocDoc, they had an opening the next week (which I immediately scheduled). I don't understand the discrepancy between the front desk's and ZocDoc's schedules.
May 11, 2018Bidisha R.Verified patient
Dr. Raj Rao is very professional. He listens to every single concern and doubt that you may have and give you solution accordingly. He is very patient and will give you as much time you may need from him and yet doesn't make the next patient wait.
I would recommend Dr. Raj Rao to anyone looking for a good Orthopedic in MD-DC-VA area.
November 20, 2017Salil G.Verified patient
Great doctor very personable. We spoke he listened and he did a through job. Gave me good recommendations. Highly recommend him.
November 13, 2017Aaron W.Verified patient
I appreciate his candor and thoroughness.
More than 1 year agoCarol M.Verified patient
Very knowledgeable. Excellent advice
September 27, 2017Initials hidden
Very knowledgeable and professional.
September 18, 2017Initials hidden
This is the first time, in a very long time, I've walked out of a Doctor's appointment with confidence. Dr. Rao was personable, clearly knowledgeable, spent a considerable amount of time listening to my concerns, did a comprehensive exam and came up with a concise plan for my medical issue. Though I'm hoping my condition clears up in its own, I would never hesitate going back to Dr. Rao and recommending him to my friends and family.
September 13, 2017Rebecca F.Verified patient
Dr. Rap was very thorough. He listened to me and suggested possible cures. He let me tell him that I would not consider surgery. And he did not try to push me towards surgery. I think this is threat a Stood Dr. Should be.
May 10, 2017Eileen S.Verified patient
Very good advice. Very knowledgeable.
More than 1 year agoSarah C.Verified patient
Loading...
Which hospital is Dr. Raj Rao affiliated with?
Dr. Raj Rao is affiliated with The George Washington University Hospital.
What practice does Dr. Raj Rao work with?
Dr. Raj Rao works with GWMFA Orthopaedics.
Where is Dr. Raj Rao's office located?
Dr. Raj Rao has 2 office locations in Washington, view full addresses on Dr. Rao's profile.
Which board certifications does Dr. Raj Rao have?
Dr. Raj Rao is certified by American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Raj Rao?
Dr. Raj Rao frequently sees patients for Back Pain, Back Problems, Neck Pain, Orthopedic Consultation, and Spine Deformation / Scoliosis . You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Raj Rao on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Raj Rao speak?
Dr. Raj Rao speaks English.
How do patients rate Dr. Raj Rao in reviews?
154 patients have reviewed Dr. Raj Rao. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.88/5. They have a 4.89/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.43/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.