Dr. Richard L. Van Buskirk, DO, PhD, FAAO

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Get to know Osteopathic Physician Dr. Richard L. Van Buskirk, who serves patients in Sarasota, Florida.

A trusted osteopathic physician, Dr. Buskirk, who has an impressive 35 years of training and experience, earned international acclaim for his expertise in Osteopathic Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine. With a keen focus on diagnosing musculoskeletal issues, he is dedicated to facilitating optimal treatment for his patients. His unique background in Neuroscience and Family Medicine complements his specialty, enabling him to provide precise analyses of how various organ systems impact the intricate network of nerves, muscles, tendons, joints, and bones.

Back in the early days of his academic career, he completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy from Mercer University and pursued advanced studies at Duke University, where he earned a PhD in Neuroscience and Psychology. His academic journey culminated at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, where he obtained his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree. Before entering medical school, he served as an Associate Professor in Physiology and Neuroscience, showcasing his commitment to education.

An expert in his field, Dr. Buskirk is board-certified by The American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (AOBIM). AOBIM is an organization that provides board certification to qualified Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease in adults (internists).

Maintaining fellowship status, the doctor is a Fellow of the American Academy of Osteopathy and has served an impressive 21 years on the Board of Governors of the American Academy of Osteopathy. His role in the rediscovery and redevelopment of Dr. Still’s primary manipulative methods, particularly the Still Technique, has been pivotal to advancing osteopathic medicine.

The Still Technique, characterized by pain-free induction of motion in restricted tissues without force, stands as Dr. Van Buskirk’s primary manipulative method. In addition, he employs other effective techniques such as Muscle Energy, Counterstrain, Balanced Ligamentous Tension, and Cranial Osteopathy in his practice, ensuring a comprehensive and patient-centered approach.

As an author, he has published medical and scientific articles, sharing his wealth of knowledge with the global medical community. His impact extends to lectures and courses delivered in North America, Europe, Australia, and Japan, further solidifying his status as an international authority in osteopathic medicine.

Physical medicine and rehabilitation, also known as physiatry, is a branch of medicine that aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities. Physiatrists treat a wide variety of medical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.

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