Arthritis Management La Jolla, CA

Arthritis Management

The joint changes associated with arthritis can begin in your 30s - and sometimes earlier. Dr. Kasendorf helps patients in and around La Jolla, CA, manage arthritis pain and stiffness and regain mobility so they can enjoy activities without discomfort.

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a disease that affects the surfaces of the joints, causing the protective layer of cartilage that lines most joints to break down. Although the risk of osteoarthritis is greatest among older men and women, it can occur at any age. In addition to the natural effects of aging, arthritis can also develop in a joint following an injury. A second type of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to attack the joint tissues. There is no cure for either type of arthritis, but there are ways to manage pain, reduce stiffness and improve joint mobility.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

The most common symptoms of both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are pain and stiffness in the affected joint, decrease range of motion in the joint and often, warmth or swelling in the area around the joint. When most people think of arthritis, they think of it affecting the hands, hips or knees, but arthritis can occur in any joint, including the neck and other areas of the spine.

How can Dr. Kasendorf help me relieve the symptoms of arthritis?

First, Dr. Kasendorf will perform a physical exam to gain an understanding of your symptoms and the underlying causes. He also may order x-rays, MRIs or blood tests. As a skilled osteopathic physician, Dr. Kssendorf has extensive training in the musculoskeletal system, its function and the diseases that affect it, including arthritis. After your evaluation, he will prescribe a treatment approach that may include regular osteopathic manipulations, lifestyle changes such as losing weight to ease the stress and strain on joints, or a modified exercise program to reduce stiffness and regain mobility. Medication may also be prescribed in conjunction with other therapeutic recommendations to help reduce inflammation around the joints.

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Cancer Pain Managment La Jolla, CA

Cancer Pain Managment

Dr. Kasendorf is experienced in helping cancer patients from throughout the La Jolla, CA, area manage the pain associated with all types of cancer, using a whole-health approach to stimulate the body's natural pain-relieving processes.

How does osteopathy help with cancer-related pain management?

Osteopaths help patients tap into the body's natural healing properties to reduce pain and inflammation and relieve the stress and anxiety that often accompany chronic illnesses such as cancer. Using techniques like massage, gentle stretching, joint and muscle manipulation, and cranial osteopathy (gently manipulation of your spine and neck), Dr. Kasendorf can pinpoint locations causing pain and help relieve associated strain and inflammation. Plus, he'll work with you to determine if additional pain-relieving medication or changes in lifestyle might aid in providing relief.

Is osteopathy a good choice for every cancer patient?

While osteopaths can provide treatment for any cancer patient, not all osteopathic techniques are recommended for all types of cancer. Osteopathic manipulation, especially techniques using thrust for instance, may not be appropriate for patients who:

  • have bone cancer
  • have cancer involving the bone marrow
  • also have other diseases such as osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases, infections or multiple sclerosis
  • are currently undergoing radiation treatments
  • are taking blood thinners

Some oncologists (cancer doctors) and osteopaths also may not advise undergoing osteopathic manipulation during chemotherapy, so be sure to discuss your treatment with Dr. Kasendorf right from the start to ensure you get the most appropriate, most effective and safest treatment.

How can I tell if osteopathy is the right choice for my cancer-related pain?

The best way to learn how osteopathic treatment may help your symptoms is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kasendorf and discuss your condition with him in depth. Dr. Kasendorf is experienced in helping cancer patients manage their pain through a variety of whole-body techniques, and he can work with you to develop a plan of treatment that's designed for your unique health needs and the cancer treatments you're undergoing.

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Regenerative Medicine La Jolla, CA

Regenerative Medicine

At his La Jolla, CA, practice, Dr. Kasendorf uses the most advanced medical treatments including regenerative medicine for men and women suffering from joint-related diseases and disorders.

What is regenerative medicine?

Sometimes called prolotherapy or proliferative therapy, regenerative medicine uses a series of injections of solutions into the joint spaces to promote the body's natural healing processes, strengthening joints and helping heal injuries. The solutions contain anesthetic agents to help relieve pain as well as other ingredients custom-tailored to each patient's unique needs. The goal of prolotherapy is to help restabilize joints that have become injured or weakened through trauma or disease.

How does regenerative medicine work?

When the body is injured, specific repair processes are initiated that can help mend tissues and strengthen the site of the injury. Regenerative medicine seeks to trigger these repair processes by causing what's known as a controlled injury. By forcing the body to recognize an injury site, regenerative medicine encourages the development of new tissues that strengthen weakened tendons, ligaments and other structures. Additional treatments over time help continue the strengthening process by laying down successive layers of tissue to restore mobility and strength and to repair damage.

What conditions can be treated with regenerative medicine?

Regenerative medicine can be used to treat conditions affecting many different joints, including the knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists, back, neck and hands. It can also be used for the treatment of tempomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and carpal tunnel syndrome.

What is treatment like?

Regenerative therapy differs with each patient and each condition, but generally, it involves a series of precisely-targeted injections over time. Some patients report mild swelling or discomfort typically associated with any type of injection, but these effects dissipate soon after treatment. Dr. Kasendorf will be able to tell you how many treatments you will be likely to need to get the maximum effects of regenerative treatment for your needs.

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Electrodiagnostics La Jolla, CA

Electrodiagnostics

Dr. Kasendorf uses state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques including electrodiagnostics (EMG) to determine the cause of nerve and muscle disorders so patients can resolve their symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.

What is EMG?

EMG stands for electromyography, a procedure that's used to diagnose issues affecting the muscles and the motor neurons (nerve cells) that control them. EMGs are especially helpful in diagnosing nerve-related pain following a traumatic or repetitive use injury. The EMG device uses electrodes to transmit and detect tiny electrical nerve impulses between the nerves and the muscles. Some EMGs use electrodes that adhere to the surface of the skin while others use needle electrodes with fine needles gently inserted into the affected muscle. During the test, the electrodes are used to gather information about the nerves and muscles which can be interpreted as graphs or numerical values for assessment.

Why is an EMG performed?

Dr. Kasendorf uses EMGs to assess patients with symptoms such as:

  • muscle cramping
  • muscle pain or weakness
  • numbness or tingling
  • pain in the limbs

It may also be used to evaluate treatments in patients with known diseases affecting the muscles, nerves or muscle-to-nerve connections such as peripheral neuropathies, muscular dystrophy, carpal tunnel syndrome or herniated discs.

How is an EMG performed?

EMG testing usually is performed while you're lying down on an exam table. During the test, the doctor will place electrodes at specific spots on your body depending on the symptoms you're experiencing, using either surface electrodes adhered to your skin or tiny needles inserted into the muscle tissue. The electrodes are used to send mild electrical currents through the muscle tissue, and to record data that can be used to evaluate muscle and nerve issues. You may also be asked to contract or relax muscles during the exam. Following a needle EMG, you may have some slight bruising in areas where the needles were inserted, but this should resolve within a few days.

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Rehabilitation Services La Jolla, CA

Rehabilitation Services

Recognized as a leading rehabilitation specialist in the La Jolla, CA, area, Dr. Kasendorf uses state-of-the-art rehabilitation techniques to help patients recover as fully and quickly as possible after injury or surgery so they can enjoy optimal health.

What is osteopathic medicine?

Osteopathic medicine uses gentle manipulation and evaluation of the musculoskeletal system to determine the source of pain and other symptoms, and to treat those symptoms using a “whole patient” approach. Osteopaths focus on improving the function of the musculoskeletal system to help alleviate symptoms that can affect many aspects of health and daily living.

How can osteopathy help with rehabilitation following injury or surgery?

Because it takes a whole body approach to treatment, osteopathy is ideally suited to rehabilitation after an injury or during the recovery phase following a surgical procedure. Dr. Kasendorf uses the most advanced techniques to tap into the body's natural healing processes, including osteopathic manipulations to relieve stress and release constrictions and impingements that may interfere with normal body functions and processes. Plus, because osteopathy is concerned not just with physical symptoms but also with psychosocial issues associated with recovery and rehabilitation, the techniques Dr. Kasendorf uses can also help alleviate stress and depression for better overall health and faster healing and recovery.

Can Dr. Kasendorf help me avoid future injuries?

Many people who have experienced injuries may have weaknesses remaining after healing that can make them more prone to additional injury. Dr. Kasendorf can evaluate injury sites – even “old” ones – to develop a proactive approach for strengthening sites left weak or vulnerable following an injury. Following a complete evaluation, he may recommend exercise, gentle stretching, osteopathic manipulation or lifestyle changes to help you regain flexibility and balance as well as strength. Dr. Kasendorf understands every patient's rehabilitative needs can vary greatly, and he develops every rehabilitation program based on those unique and disparate needs for optimal results.

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Osteopathic Manipulation La Jolla, CA

Osteopathic Manipulation

As a top osteopathic physician in the La Jolla, CA, area, Dr. Kasendorf helps patients achieve optimal health with osteopathic manipulations aimed at diagnosing and treating a wide range of issues, including both acute and chronic conditions.

What is osteopathic medicine?

Osteopathic medicine uses a “whole patient” approach to care, focusing on all the ways an illness or medical condition may affect the entire body, including psychosocial issues like stress and depression. Many osteopathic doctors use hands-on techniques called osteopathic manipulations to determine the underlying causes of pain, including contributing factors, so they can ensure the treatment they provide is most appropriate for the individual patient.

What are osteopathic manipulations?

Osteopathic manipulations are “hands on” treatments that can be used to diagnose causes of pain and other symptoms, treat medical conditions and prevent injury and illness. The manipulations generally involve a series of palpations to feel bones, joints, muscles and other soft tissues, as well as gentle stretching or range of motion exercises to evaluate and determine the cause of symptoms. Once the source of pain or other symptoms has been identified, Dr. Kasendorf may use techniques like gentle pressure and resistance to help relieve stiffness and pain, eliminate muscle and joint restrictions, and promote optimal health and wellness.

What medical conditions can be treated with osteopathic manipulations?

Osteopathic manipulation is widely used to treat an array of medical conditions, including:

  • joint diseases and disorders
  • neck and back pain
  • sinus problems
  • carpal tunnel syndrome
  • chronic headaches including migraines
  • asthma
  • menstrual pain

Osteopathic manipulations are also often used after surgery to help patients recover more quickly and with less discomfort, and even before surgery to ensure patients are in the best shape possible before their procedures. In many cases, using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) can help patients avoid the need for medication or surgery, and it may also help prevent minor conditions from developing into more serious issues.

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​Acute And Chronic Pain Management La Jolla, CA

​Acute And Chronic Pain Management

As a leading pain management specialist in La Jolla, CA, Dr. Kasendorf is experienced in helping patients manage both acute and chronic pain so they can improve their quality of life.

What is the difference between chronic and acute pain?

Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for a prolonged period of time. Often, chronic pain is less severe than acute pain, but that's not always the case. Acute pain is pain that comes on suddenly and is often quite severe.

How does Dr. Kasendorf evaluate chronic pain?

As a doctor of osteopathic medicine, Dr. Kasendorf is concerned with the way chronic pain affects the whole individual. Pain can affect different people in different ways, and chronic pain often causes debilitating effects that can have an impact on everyday living and quality of life. Dr. Kasendorf listens closely to patients' reports of symptoms and performs a comprehensive exam which may include range of motion exercises to determine the underlying cause of chronic pain so it can be appropriately treated. In some cases, diagnostic imaging like x-rays or MRIs may also be used to aid in pain evaluation.

How can Dr. Kasendorf help me manage my pain?

After your evaluation, Dr. Kasendorf may recommend a range of potential remedies that address the physical aspects of your pain as well as the behavioral and emotional aspects – that is, the toll pain can take on your mental health. Pain has been associated with an increase in depression and stress. Dr. Kasendorf's approach ensures every aspect of pain management is addressed for the greatest improvement in quality of life. For the physical aspects of pain, Dr. Kasendorf will begin by exploring conservative options that tap into the body's natural ability to heal itself. If surgery is needed to relieve painful symptoms, Dr. Kasendorf can prescribe therapeutic activities before and after surgery to optimize your outcome.

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Headache And Migraine Treatment La Jolla, CA

Headache And Migraine Treatment

Dr. Kasendorf uses advanced pain management techniques for safe and effective headache and migraine treatment, helping patients throughout the La Jolla, CA, area find the relief they need from debilitating symptoms that can take a significant toll on their health and their quality of life.

What causes chronic headaches?

Headaches can occur for many different reasons, including chronic stress, anxiety, depression and other emotional issues, or from physical causes like muscle strain, soft tissue injury, circulation problems and nervous system issues, including pinched nerves and overactive nerves. Chronic headaches including migraines can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person's life. The first step in treating headaches is to have a physical exam with a complete medical history aimed at identifying possible causes so treatment can be customized and targeted for better results and improved overall health.

What treatments are available for chronic headaches and migraines?

The exact treatment for chronic headaches will depend on the underlying cause, and can include techniques like:

  • trigger point injections
  • osteopathic manipulation
  • sphenopalatine nerve blocks
  • Botox® injections to block nerve receptors

Ideally, treatment of migraines and other chronic headaches is focused on preventing headaches from occurring in the first place, but medications can also be prescribed to treat symptoms of headaches that do occur.

How does Botox® work to treat migraine headaches?

Botox® is typically used in people who have many headaches each month, each one lasting several hours. Injections are given at specific points around the neck and head to help block nerve signals that have been implicated in migraine headaches. Studies have shown Botox® can help prevent migraines for up to three months in many patients, and treatment can be repeated every 12 weeks as needed.

How will I know which treatment is best for me?

Your physical exam, medical history and a detailed description of symptoms can be very helpful in understanding your headaches and the factors that contribute to them. Information gathered during your exam along with any lab tests that may be ordered will help determine the best treatment approach to bring relief for your specific symptoms.

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Suboxone Treatment La Jolla, CA

Suboxone Treatment

For those dealing with addiction and dependence, Suboxone treatment can be extremely beneficial. At his La Jolla, California practice, Dr. Kasendorf offers Suboxone medication to ease opiate cravings in order to help patients break free from addiction.

What is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescription medication containing buprenorphine and naloxone. The medication is used to help adults who are dependent on or addicted to opioids. At the practice, Dr. Kasendorf uses Suboxone to treat addiction to both prescription medications and heroin. Suboxone is used to address opioid dependence and should be a part of a program which includes counseling and psychosocial care. Patients at the clinic are referred to one of several friendly counseling centers for assistance. It can help those with addictions to OxyContin, Opana, Norco, Vicodin, Percocet, and methadone as well. Additionally, the Suboxone induction is done in the office. The office is a quiet, private and friendly environment where Dr. Kasendorf treats many different conditions.

How can Suboxone treatment help?

Suboxone treatment is focused on recovery in the long term. The office is discreet and protects each patient’s privacy. During visits for the Suboxone treatment, the office assists patients to attain the tools needed to live a life free of drugs. Prescriptions for Suboxone can be provided for longer periods of time, such as a week or a month, as compared to Methadone which is needed for refill every day. Also, Suboxone is much safer in many ways and easier to wean off. Medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine, an active ingredient in Suboxone film, can assist to lessen cravings for opioids. It is extremely important to adhere to the doctor’s suggestions and take the drug only as indicated.

What is the goal of treatment?

The goals of treatment are straightforward and achieved through hard work. The office is there for patients to help them transition off drugs and to help widen their support network in order to ease them back into a normal routine by directing them to mental health professionals. The office helps patients get healthy again so that they can start rebuilding important relationships with friends, loved ones, and colleagues . Throughout treatment, patients should be taking the Suboxone as prescribed. Additionally, the treatment plan will direct you to counselors and behavioral therapy so that the emotional and mental sides of recovery are also addressed. To learn more, please contact the office to schedule a visit or consultation with Dr. Kasendorf.

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Trigger Point Injections La Jolla, CA

Trigger Point Injections

Dr. Roger Kasendorf and his staff specialize in the use of trigger point injections and osteopathic manipulations to create effective pain management plans. The doctor serves the La Jolla, California as well as residents in many neighboring communities.

What are Trigger Point Injections?

Trigger points are small knots that are the result of muscles remaining abnormally tight or stressed for a prolonged period of time. The knots can be felt under the skin and, at times, can be extremely painful. They can also irritate nerves in the area causing tingling and numbness. Trigger point injections involves injecting a saline solution that contains an anesthetic into the trigger point, eliminating the pain and discomfort. Trigger point injections are considered to be an outpatient procedure and can be performed in the doctor's office without any type of anesthesia. One or two injections will often provide sustained relief and prevent the trigger point from flaring up again.

How do Trigger Point Injections Work?

Trigger points are localized knots that form in muscles when they have been under prolonged stress or are extremely tight. The trigger points can affect the nerves located near them, resulting in radiating pain that spreads throughout the area. A trigger point injection uses a saline based anesthetic to help alleviate the pain. The solution numbs the area effectively rendering it inactive. While the trigger points, or knots, may relax on their own, an osteopathic doctor may be able to provide relief through the manipulation of the soft tissues. This will help the muscles to relax and the trigger points to essentially dissolve or disappear.

How Long do Trigger Point Injections Last?

One or two sessions may be all it takes to effectively treat trigger point pain. The trigger points form when a muscle has become exceedingly tight without being able to relax. Using trigger point injections offers almost immediate relief. Once the trigger point injection has taken effect, gradually loosening the muscle may prevent future trigger points from forming. Gently massaging or manipulating the soft tissues can loosen the stiffened tissues, while exercising on a regular basis helps to keep the muscle relaxed on a long term basis. The use of trigger point injections may be able to help when other treatment options have failed.

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Hyaluronic Acid Injections La Jolla, CA

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Dr. Roger Kasendorf and his staff serve the residents of La Jolla and many other nearby California neighborhoods. The doctor offers hyaluronic acid injections as well osteopathic manipulations as part of many personalized pain management plans.

What is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid can be found naturally in the human body. A person normally uses approximately one third of the amount the body has on hand each day. It is one of the elements that promotes inflammation if an injury has occurred. It is a gooey substance that offers cushion and support to injured or damaged areas of the body. Hyaluronic acid has both cosmetic and healing benefits. It has been widely used as a dermal filler to increase the plumpness of lips and eliminate wrinkles. It is also used in joints and near wounds to help prevent further injury and increase lubrication in the area.

What are the Benefits of Using Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance. It is found throughout the human body, and in most cases, offers few known side effects. Because it is found in the body, there are limited allergic reactions, mostly dependent on how it is formulated. In its natural form, hyaluronic acid is a thick, "gooey" substance. It helps to stimulate inflammation immediately after an injury, but can also be used to help support the wounded area later, allowing the inflammation to dissipate and relieving pain. When used to treat damaged joints, hyaluronic acid can be used as a lubricant. Its thickness allows it to remain in place for long periods of time without wearing away or dissolving.

How Long Does a Hyaluronic Acid Injection Work?

Each person will have a different response to hyaluronic acid injections, especially when it comes to controlling joint pain. In most cases, patients receive injections for 3 to 5 weeks, one shot each week. How long the benefits last will depend on the severity of the injury, other treatment methods being used, and what type of activities the patient participates in. It is extremely important for a person who is receiving these types of injections to report all changes in their condition to their doctor. The number of injections they receive and the types of treatment included in the treatment plan may have to be altered.

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BasicMed La Jolla, CA

BasicMed

BasicMed is an alternative way for pilots to fly without an FAA medical certificate. At Roger Kasendorf, DO, we are here to help you take to the sky. Dr. Kasendorf is a civil surgeon and certified to complete your physical examination, fill out the BasicMed form, and process it so that you can begin flying right away.

BasicMed is a third-class medical reform that allows general aviation pilots to prepare to fly without a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical certificate as long as they can meet certain requirements. BasicMed enables you to fly provided you have an FAA pilot certificate, valid driver’s license, a current medical certificate, complete a medical education course every 2 years, and undergo a thorough medical examination every 4 years.

It is important to note that it is not the same as the FAA physical and can limit the type of flying you may be able to do.

Under the BasicMed, you are only able to fly five passengers, not including yourself, and your aircraft must be certified for six occupants or less. The takeoff weight is also limited to 6,000 pounds and you are prohibited from flying for hire or compensation. Flying restrictions also include flights only within the U.S and U.S territories, flying below 18,000’ MSL, and flying at 250 KIAS or less.

For more information on BasicMed and how we can help you, contact our office at [dm-phone].

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USCIS Medical Examinations La Jolla, CA

USCIS Medical Examinations

At Roger Kasendorf, DO, we are happy to assist those in need of a USCIS Medical Exam to help with the immigration process. Dr. Kasendorf is a designated civil surgeon for the U.S. and manages a wonderful, experienced team dedicated to providing high-quality care so your visit can be as comfortable as possible.

This examination is used to determine whether a foreign national meets the health and medical standards for admissibility.

During this process, a physical exam is conducted that focuses largely on infection. We will review your vaccination history as well as do several health screenings for conditions such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and other transmittable diseases.

It is important to have all your required vaccinations, which can vary by age, but we will review and discuss with you the best options for vaccinations if needed.

Once your exam is complete, Dr. Kasendorf will fill out the form and send it to be processed.

For more information on USCIS Medical Examinations or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today at [dm-phone].

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