South West Health Spine & Sport — Local services in Costa Mesa

I come from a family of doctors and have deep respect for the challenges they face—especially today. That said, my experience with Dr. Zappala was shockingly unprofessional, and since he refused direct communication or conflict resolution, I am sharing my experience here.

I was a patient of Dr. Z for nearly 20 years, actively treating neck and shoulder pain over the last three. In March, I noticed a double charge on my debit card after a decompression appointment. After three weeks, repeated calls, providing proof, and receiving multiple conflicting responses from different part-time staff members, my refund was finally issued—but only after being told I could not make future appointments unless I apologized to the staff. At no point did Dr. Z acknowledge the mistake, the mishandling of the situation, or offer an apology.

This pattern extended beyond billing. I underwent nearly $800 worth of shockwave therapy for shoulder tendinosis that provided no relief. Another physician later diagnosed cervical compression as the true cause—something visible in prior imaging that Dr. Z’s office had access to. I also spent years unable to access my own medical records through the patient portal, despite multiple attempts and no real assistance. When I asked Dr. Z directly, I was told to "contact the EMR company," which is not the patient’s responsibility.

A good doctor takes accountability—for their practice, their mistakes, and how they treat patients. After nearly 20 years as a loyal patient, I was dismissed over a billing error that wasn’t even my fault.

If you value integrity, professionalism, and proper patient care—especially on the administrative side—I strongly recommend seeking...

What a great experience I had with nutritionist, Kristi Acuna. I was recently diagnosed with diabetes & high blood pressure. Naturally, I was a bit overweight too.

I tried the Standard Process Purification & Weight management Cleanse per Kristi's (and my trainer friend, Eric's) recommendation.

In just 21 days I lost 10 lbs & 3 inches. I completely turned around my diagnosis of high blood pressure and diabetes. Dont have to take medicine anymore!

I also have more enrgy, sleep better, have a better libido and just plain feel better. Its an X factor I hadnt had since I was in high school!

Krisiti allows you to call, email or even text at all hours of the day with any questions or concerns. And, she's just plain friendly, enjoyable, relateable anf fun!

The price is much less than a standard monthly food budget and certianly less than all those doctors visits and meds for my illnesses.

Big thanks to Kristi and the team. What a great experience. I'll be...

My lower back pain was getting worse and worse from repetitive stress, work and lifting improperly over 15 years. It got to the point where I couldn’t tie my shoes or get into and out of my car without VERY sharp pain in my spine. There was pain shooting down my leg and my knees hurt constantly. I went to Dr. Z when a concerned friend forced me to go and It was one of the best things I’ve ever done. I was skeptical of Chiropractors. Dr. Zappala made me very comfortable and after a few visits he had me nearly pain free...I was able to travel to Alaska and won a World Championship competition!! (Only a week after seeing the doctor in very bad pain!) A few follow up visits and I am pain free, happy and loving life again. Dr. Z and Dr. Ren are very professional and really know their stuff. I’m forever...