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Dr. John Engstrom, a specialist in neuromuscular disorders, is director of neurology outpatient services and a neurologist at the UCSF Spine Center. In addition to treating patients, he studies new therapies for neurological complications of spine disease and peripheral nerve entrapment (a category of conditions involving compressed nerves).

Engstrom earned a bachelor's degree in genetics at the University of California, Davis, followed by a medical degree at the Stanford University School of Medicine. He completed a medical residency in neurology at UCSF, where he served as chief resident, before joining the UCSF in 1988.

Engstrom has received numerous awards, including the Betty Anker Fife Distinguished Chair in Neurology from UCSF, Visiting Professor of Neurologic Education at the Mayo Clinic and Outstanding Clinical Teacher for Neurology Residents from UCSF. He was also awarded the Distinguished Neurology Teacher of the Year Award by the American Neurological Association, and in 2021 he was honored with the B. Baker Lifetime Achievement in Neurologic Education, given by the American Academy of Neurology. He is an associate editor for Harrison's, an online resource for medical practice and research, and vice chair of the Department of Neurology at UCSF.

  • Board Certifications

    American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology., Neurology

    American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine

  • Fellowships

    UCSF Graduate Medical Education, Clinical Neurophysiology

  • Residencies

    UCSF Graduate Medical Education, Neurology

    Johns Hopkins Hospital, Internal Medicine

  • Internship

    Johns Hopkins Hospital, Internal Medicine

  • Degree

    MD, Stanford University School of Medicine

Where I see patients (6)

    My reviews

    4.9

    Overall Experience
    118 Ratings
    About our process
    Nov 05, 2025
    Dr John Engstrom is an excellent physician!
    Oct 14, 2025
    A first rate physician in all respects
    Sep 09, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom is one of the best Dr.'s I have ever had. He has been compassionate and understanding throughout my care over the last 3 years. I highly recommend him.
    Aug 26, 2025
    It was a good experience. I will always have nerve pain in my left leg, which does not make me happy!!
    Jul 31, 2025
    I have utmost trust and appreciation for this practice and particularly for the provider. Always seeing the big picture, asking probing questions, clearly articulating options, referring to other practices as the case may be.
    Jul 29, 2025
    Very through exam, discussion and follow up health care action.
    Jul 04, 2025
    Very courteous and professional
    Jun 13, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom is wonderful and really listens to every question and concern and answers everyone
    May 06, 2025
    World class medical care from Dr. Engstrom
    Apr 17, 2025
    Outstanding physician
    Mar 31, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom is a talented doctor. I feel privileged to count him in my care team.
    Mar 12, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom should genuine concern for my current issue and we discussed how I am currently treating it and what I should do moving forward. He put in the appropriate referral for the department I need to see.
    Mar 04, 2025
    Great doctor!
    Mar 04, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom is great!!!
    Feb 01, 2025
    Dr. Engstrom is the best.
    Dec 24, 2024
    I am a huge fan of Dr. Engstrom
    Dec 18, 2024
    My docs are the best
    Dec 11, 2024
    Dr Engstrom is among the best care professionals that I have been involved with
    Nov 26, 2024
    He mentioned and referred to me to see Dr. Like, which I am still waiting to get an appointment with him
    Nov 23, 2024
    Dr. Engstrom is the consummate doctor. He's fantastic!
    Nov 08, 2024
    Dr. Engstrom was very sympathetic about my needs and concerns
    Oct 09, 2024
    Doctor Engstrom gave me some hope on my problem
    Oct 08, 2024
    Excellent Dr.
    Aug 20, 2024
    Dr Engstrom is the very best. He always listens, and asks about any questions or concerns.
    Aug 06, 2024
    Dr. Engstrom is a gem. I have found that younger doctors have not been well trained in diagnosing - especially issues that are not in the ordinary realm. Dr. Engstrom is an excellent diagnostician besides being someone whom I trust and regard highly for his knowledge.
    Jul 23, 2024
    I have huge respect and confidence of this provider - excellent neurologist with a big picture insights!
    Jul 12, 2024
    Unbelievable fantastic professional Neurologist!!! I have been having an issue for 8 years and I am convinced he will figure out my problem. Listens with outstanding bedside manners!!!
    Jun 27, 2024
    Great doctor
    Jun 26, 2024
    I've seen about one dozen neurologists in 15 years. Dr Engstrom ranks near the bottom. His fellow was excellent
    Jun 12, 2024
    I already have recommended Dr. Engstrom to a friend. He seems knowledgeable and is a good listener.
    May 23, 2024
    Dr Engstrom always spend considerable time to make sure he evaluates your condition, listen and discusses all options with you.
    May 14, 2024
    Dr Engstrom is extraordinary. He pointed out the significant information in my MRI results on a screen. He's as skilled an educator as he is a diagnostician. I never felt hurried and felt I could ask every question that concerned me.
    Apr 23, 2024
    Dr. Engstrom shows courtesy and thoroughness in his practice.
    Apr 10, 2024
    Both resident & doctor extremely thorough. Knowledgeable & good at communicating. Felt I was in excellent hands & that my medical issue could be addressed & clarified.
    Mar 19, 2024
    Dr Engstrom is the absolute very best.
    Mar 12, 2024
    Very kind , knowledgeable and compassionate. One of the top docs consultant that sees you face to face .

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