What situation or injury led you to ORSI?
Several years ago I began experiencing persistent neck and shoulder pain that seemed to get worse after every activity. Shortly after, I underwent open heart surgery which left me feeling stiff and weak in my upper body. The post-surgical stiffness and scar tissue around my chest and shoulders made simple tasks like lifting my arm or turning my head feel like major challenges. On top of that, I had suffered a whiplash injury in a minor car accident a few years before, and that old injury flared up again under the strain of daily life. By the time I arrived at OrthoRehab Specialists, I could barely sleep through the night without waking in pain, and I had lost confidence that I could return to the active lifestyle I once enjoyed.
How would you categorize your story?
My time at OrthoRehab Specialists has been nothing short of life changing. Under the expert care of Terry Buisman and his team, I received a level of attention and detail that went far beyond what I had experienced at other clinics. They took the time to understand my full medical history, including my open heart surgery and past whiplash injury, and they crafted a customized plan that addressed every element of my discomfort. From day one, I felt supported, respected, and confident that I was on the right path back to health and function. Terry and the staff provided clear explanations, gentle encouragement, and hands-on treatments that gave me hope every step of the way.
Please share your experience.
My journey began with a comprehensive initial evaluation in Edina that included a review of my surgical notes, a posture and movement analysis, and a set of strength and mobility tests. This thorough assessment allowed the therapists to pinpoint scar tissue restrictions around my chest, chronic tightness in my neck muscles, and compensations in my shoulder motion. Over the next several weeks, I attended two to three sessions per week, each one combining manual therapy to release tight fascia, guided stretching and mobilization exercises, and a gradual strengthening program. I also received education on body mechanics, posture correction, and breathing techniques that helped me manage pain on days when I could not see a therapist in person.
What goals did OrthoRehab help you accomplish?
Thanks to Terry’s expertise, I achieved goals I thought were out of reach. Within a few weeks, I noticed my neck stiffness decreasing and my shoulder pain subsiding during simple activities like brushing my hair or reaching for a cup in the kitchen cabinet. I learned to activate my core and scapular stabilizers during every exercise, which not only improved my shoulder mobility but also reduced strain on my neck and upper back. Over the course of three months, I regained over 80 percent of my pre-surgery range of motion in my shoulder and was able to participate in light cardio again without relying on pain medication. My morning stretching routine, provided by Terry, became a cornerstone of my recovery and allowed me to wean off most of my pain meds within six weeks.
Program Highlights
- Manual Therapy Sessions: Gentle joint mobilizations, soft tissue release, and scar tissue work to restore mobility in the neck, chest, and shoulder.
- Stretching and Flexibility: A personalized morning routine targeting tight muscles in the chest, neck, and upper back to maintain gains between visits.
- Strength and Stability Exercises: Focused on the rotator cuff, scapular stabilizers, and core muscles to build lasting support for my shoulder and spine.
- Postural Training: Ergonomic advice for work and home, plus cues to improve sitting, standing, and lifting mechanics.
- Education and Self-Management: Instruction in breathing techniques, home exercise compliance, and pain-management strategies to empower long-term success.
Key Milestones
By week four, I was opening jars and typing without pain. By week eight, I could lift grocery bags overhead and return to gentle swimming at the community pool. At the three-month mark, I completed a guided return-to-fitness program that included light weight training and stationary cycling. Today I am able to enjoy tennis with friends and weekend hikes with my family; activities I thought I had lost forever.
Why OrthoRehab Specialists?
OrthoRehab Specialists stands out for their therapist-owned model, which means every clinical decision is based on patient outcomes rather than quotas. Their Edina and Minneapolis locations offer convenient direct access so I did not need a physician referral to begin treatment. I saw the same therapist each visit, ensuring continuity of care and a deep understanding of my progress. The integration of evidence-based manual therapy techniques and functional exercise made all the difference in my recovery.
Next Steps for Patients
If you are experiencing neck pain, shoulder stiffness, or any post-surgical limitations, I encourage you to explore the shoulder therapy services and spinal therapy options at OrthoRehab Specialists. Their team of licensed physical therapists is ready to develop a plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you return to the activities you love.
Contact Information
To schedule your evaluation at our Edina clinic, call 952-922-0330 or visit our Contact Us page. If Minneapolis is more convenient, you can reach that clinic at 612-339-2041.
Final Thoughts
My experience with OrthoRehab Specialists has been transformative. What began as chronic pain and functional loss became an opportunity to learn about my body, build resilience, and reclaim my life. The combination of manual therapy, targeted exercise, and patient education provided by Terry Buisman and his colleagues delivered results that exceeded my expectations. If you are ready to take control of your pain and get back to living fully, reach out today to begin your own recovery journey.