Roger Kasendorf, DO

Roger Kasendorf, DO, is recognized as one of the most well-respected physicians in the greater San Diego area. Throughout his career, he has dedicated himself to helping people of all backgrounds and has always placed the needs of his patients first. His commitment to improving care has driven him to expand his range of services and ensure that every patient receives exactly what they need. He continues to serve as an example for others through his dedication, compassion, and commitment to mentoring future doctors. From an early age, Dr. Kasendorf showed curiosity about many subjects, though he was not sure which path he would follow. What he did know was that he wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. His interest in science grew stronger over time, especially in how it could be used to help others. This practical side of science inspired him to pursue medicine, and he chose to become an osteopathic physician because it allowed him to focus on the body as a whole. After high school, Dr. Kasendorf earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland. He explored a wide variety of courses to develop a strong educational foundation. Later, he continued his studies at the New York Institute of Technology, where he earned his degree in Osteopathic Medicine. In 2003, he graduated with his DO degree and chose to specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation. During his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR), Dr. Kasendorf developed a strong interest in pain medicine. He recognized that chronic pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek medical care and that each person experiences pain differently. Because of this, he focused his training on understanding and managing chronic pain through different treatment methods. His goal has always been to help patients develop well-rounded treatment strategies that address the root of their discomfort and improve their quality of life. After completing his training, he became board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. As a doctor, he believes accurate diagnosis is only one part of helping patients recover. He focuses on functionality—understanding how pain or injury affects a person’s ability to move and live comfortably. Whether a patient struggles to walk up the stairs, use a computer, or get out of bed, he works to identify how the body’s parts—muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, bones, nerves, and the brain—interact. He then designs a treatment plan that promotes long-term recovery and reduces complications. Dr. Kasendorf uses a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. His care may include osteopathic manipulation to align joints and muscles, trigger point injections or joint injections to reduce inflammation, and facet injections to relieve back pain. He is also trained in using Botox to treat migraines and muscle spasticity and performs lumbar spinal injections for lower back pain. Through these methods, he creates personalized, comprehensive care plans that help patients regain movement and ease discomfort. Believing that medicine works best as a team effort, Dr. Kasendorf collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals. He partners with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and other physicians to ensure patients receive full-spectrum care. He values coordination and open communication between providers to ensure everyone involved in a patient’s treatment is aligned and informed. Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Kasendorf is deeply involved in teaching and mentoring the next generation of doctors. He regularly speaks at professional gatherings such as the American Osteopathic Association conference, National AOA conventions, and the Western States Osteopathic Medical Society Annual Assembly. He believes sharing knowledge helps strengthen the medical community and improve patient care. His work and contributions have earned him recognition, including being named the top osteopathic physician in California in September 2020 and receiving the Top Doctor in La Jolla award in January 2020. Outside of work, Dr. Kasendorf values balance and personal well-being. He believes that taking time to rest, connect with loved ones, and spend time outdoors allows him to return to his patients with renewed focus and compassion. He enjoys mentoring young students and future doctors, encouraging them to pursue medicine with empathy and dedication. Roger Kasendorf, DO, continues to set a positive example through his professionalism, humility, and devotion to helping others. His career reflects a lifelong mission to serve patients, educate future physicians, and promote a holistic, team-based approach to healthcare.