Dr. Ninad Karandikar is a board-certified specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), with a focus on providing non-operative care for patients with acute and chronic spine pain and musculoskeletal disorders. Dr. Karandikar is triple board-certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR), Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM), and Brain Injury Medicine (ABPMR).

Dr. Karandikar specializes in diagnostic and therapeutic interventional procedures, including spinal injections, and nerve conduction studies/electromyography.

Dr. Karandikar has published widely on the topics of regenerative medicine, prosthetics, and gait analysis. Dr. Karandikar’s research interests include applications of digital health and AI, with a focus on improving clinical outcomes, and health equity.

A dedicated and passionate medical educator, Dr. Karandikar has extensive experience in teaching and mentoring medical students, residents, fellows, and other allied healthcare professionals. He has received numerous regional and national teaching awards.

Dr. Karandikar completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY. He subsequently completed his fellowship in PM&R Interventional Spine at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Prior to joining UCSF, Dr. Karandikar served as Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. In addition, Dr. Karandikar served as Assistant Chief, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Medical Director at the VA Palo Alto Medical Center.

Outside of his practice, Dr. Karandikar enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and exploring diverse cuisines.