What was your favorite part about your experience at OrthoRehab?
From the moment I walked into the reception area at OrthoRehab Specialists, I felt welcomed and supported. The team took the time to learn about my individual needs rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach. Each session with my physical therapist began with a detailed check-in, where we reviewed progress from previous visits and adjusted my exercise plan based on how I felt that day. This high level of individualized attention made a profound difference.
The clinic environment itself is warm and inviting. Natural light floods the main exercise area, and calming colors on the walls help ease any anxiety I felt about starting therapy. I appreciated that the staff kept noise levels low and offered bottled water and clean towels for patients. Small touches like these contributed to a feeling of respect and genuine care.
Perhaps my favorite part was the constant collaboration. My therapist encouraged me to ask questions at every step, and any concerns I raised were addressed immediately. When I mentioned difficulty with a particular movement, we paused the exercise and reviewed the mechanics together. That hands-on, problem-solving approach gave me confidence that I was in expert hands.
Beyond the technical expertise, the personal rapport I built with each member of the team was invaluable. They remembered details about my hobbies, my work schedule, and even my upcoming vacation plans. This level of empathy—as evident in conversations about my day to day life—made each visit feel like a partnership rather than a clinical requirement.
With respect to your injury, how has the OrthoRehab team impacted your life?
When I first arrived at OrthoRehab, I was still struggling with a frozen shoulder that limited my daily activities. Turning my head to check for traffic while driving or reaching overhead to store items in my kitchen caused sharp pain and frustration. After just a few weeks of carefully selected mobilization exercises and manual therapy, I noticed a marked improvement.
The team’s deep understanding of shoulder biomechanics helped me rebuild the range of motion I had lost. They introduced a progression of stretches and strengthening exercises tailored to my specific condition. Each exercise session began with a brief review of my goals for that day, whether it was reaching to a higher shelf or lifting a light object without discomfort. This focus on functional outcomes meant I could track tangible improvements week by week.
In addition to one-on-one sessions, I attended small group workshops on posture and body mechanics, led by Terry Buisman and Emily Smith, PT, DPT. These workshops covered techniques for sitting at a desk without straining the neck and performing household chores more safely. Learning these strategies empowered me to prevent flare-ups on days when I needed to be active for extended periods.
The integrated care model at OrthoRehab also connected me with their manual therapy specialists, who used targeted soft tissue mobilization to address tight muscles around my shoulder blade. Combined with the home exercise program I received, I began to experience less pain at night and was able to sleep more soundly. Better rest, in turn, improved my energy levels and mood—and I found myself able to enjoy activities like gardening and light weight training once again.
The cumulative effect of these interventions was transformative. I went from avoiding certain movements to confidently rotating my shoulder and engaging in recreational sports like tennis. My ability to drive, care for my children, and maintain my professional responsibilities improved dramatically. The OrthoRehab team had such a positive impact on my life that I began referring friends and family members who experienced musculoskeletal issues to their clinic in Edina and clinic in Minneapolis.
If you were to recommend your physical therapist to a friend, what would you say?
If a friend came to me with shoulder pain, I would tell them that OrthoRehab Specialists is the place to go. I would explain how the therapists combine evidence-based practice with genuine empathy. From the initial evaluation, which includes a comprehensive review of medical history and movement patterns, to the development of a custom treatment plan, they demonstrate exceptional skill and care.
I would highlight their focus on measurable progress. In my case, my therapist set clear milestones for increasing the amount of overhead reach and reducing pain ratings. We used simple tools like a goniometer to track joint angles and a pain scale to quantify discomfort. Seeing those numbers improve over time motivated me to stay committed to my home exercises and attend every appointment.
I would also emphasize their follow-through after formal therapy ended. OrthoRehab offers check-in calls and booster sessions for patients who have completed their initial plan of care. Knowing that the team remained available to address any setbacks gave me peace of mind. In fact, when I experienced a minor shoulder tweak after lifting a heavy box in my garage, a quick follow-up appointment kept me on track without letting the issue escalate.
Beyond the clinical benefits, I would mention the supportive environment. From smiling receptionists who greet you by name to therapists who celebrate your small victories, the positive energy in the clinic is contagious. They offer convenient appointment scheduling online, and I could easily link to their Insurance & Payment Options page to verify my coverage before my visit.
In short, I would tell any friend that OrthoRehab Specialists is a practice where each patient is treated like a valued partner in their own recovery. Whether you are recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or simply striving to optimize your performance in sports, this team provides the expertise, support, and encouragement you need to reach your goals.
