Fibromyalgia Treatment in Edina and Minneapolis

Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive challenges. At OrthoRehab Specialists, our physical therapists in Edina and Minneapolis specialize in evidence-based fibromyalgia rehabilitation. We understand that each patient’s experience is unique, and we design personalized treatment plans that address pain, sleep disturbances, and reduced function. Our goal is to empower you with tools and strategies that promote long-term relief and improved quality of life.

Understanding Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia affects an estimated 4 million adults in the United States, predominantly women. Although the exact cause remains unknown, research suggests dysregulation in pain processing pathways of the central nervous system. Common triggers include physical trauma, surgery, infection, or significant emotional stress. Patients often report:

• Widespread musculoskeletal pain in muscles and joints
• Constant fatigue that does not improve with rest
• “Fibro fog” or difficulty concentrating and memory problems
• Sleep disturbances, including nonrestorative sleep
• Headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and mood disorders

Because symptoms overlap with other conditions, fibromyalgia diagnosis may be delayed. A comprehensive evaluation by a knowledgeable physical therapist can accelerate appropriate care and reduce frustration with prolonged diagnostic processes.

Why Physical Therapy Helps

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of fibromyalgia management. Our approach targets both physical and neurological contributors to pain and dysfunction. Key benefits include:

• Pain Reduction: Manual therapy and gentle mobilizations decrease muscle tightness and improve circulation.
• Improved Mobility: Stretching and range-of-motion exercises restore flexibility and joint health.
• Enhanced Strength: Low-impact strengthening programs for core, legs, and upper body support functional movement.
• Better Sleep: Relaxation techniques and exercise can improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue.
• Stress Management: Education in breathing, mindfulness, and pacing strategies helps you control flare-ups.

By addressing both physical impairments and lifestyle factors, our therapists help you achieve sustainable improvements and return to daily activities with greater ease.

Comprehensive Evaluation Process

Our therapists conduct a thorough assessment to tailor your rehabilitation plan:

• Patient Interview: Discussion of symptom onset, pain patterns, sleep habits, stressors, and activity levels.
• Postural and Gait Analysis: Observation of standing alignment, walking mechanics, and balance to identify compensations.
• Range of Motion Testing: Measurement of joint flexibility in the spine, hips, shoulders, and other affected areas.
• Muscle Strength Assessment: Functional tests for core stability and extremity strength to guide exercise prescription.
• Functional Movement Screening: Evaluation of tasks such as sit-to-stand, stair climbing, and overhead reaching.
• Pain Sensitivity Tests: Gentle palpation to identify tender points and hypersensitive areas associated with fibromyalgia.

This multi-dimensional evaluation forms the foundation for a personalized, adaptable treatment plan that evolves with your progress.

Individualized Treatment Strategies

Our therapists blend manual techniques, therapeutic exercise, and education to address your unique needs:

• Manual Therapy: Soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, and joint mobilizations to ease tight muscles and improve tissue glide.
• Therapeutic Exercise: Low-impact aerobic conditioning, aquatic therapy, and resistance exercises that gradually build endurance without triggering flare-ups.
• Stretching & Flexibility: Gentle stretches for hamstrings, hip flexors, chest, and neck to reduce stiffness and improve posture.
• Pacing Techniques: Instruction in activity modification and rest scheduling to prevent overexertion and minimize pain cycles.
• Relaxation & Mindfulness: Guided breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization to reduce stress and tension.
• Ergonomic Advice: Guidance on workstation setup, sleeping positions, and supportive footwear to optimize daily function and comfort.

Exercise Programming

Effective fibromyalgia exercise programs are scaled to your tolerance and adapt with your progress. Key components include:

• Aerobic Activity: Low-impact options such as walking, cycling, or aquatic exercise to improve cardiovascular health and endorphin release.
• Strength Training: Bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, and light free weights to build muscle support around joints and spine.
• Balance & Proprioception: Single-leg stance, wobble board drills, and dynamic stability movements to enhance body awareness and reduce fall risk.
• Core Stabilization: Seated or supine core activation drills to support spine alignment and reduce strain on peripheral joints.

Each exercise session is closely supervised to ensure proper form, prevent injury, and maintain an appropriate challenge level.

Lifestyle & Self-Management Education

Education is a fundamental part of fibromyalgia care. We provide resources on:

• Sleep Hygiene: Tips for consistent bedtime routines, bedroom environment optimization, and relaxation practices to improve sleep quality.
• Nutrition & Hydration: Guidance on anti-inflammatory diets, balanced meals, and adequate fluid intake.
• Stress Reduction: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and biofeedback to manage emotional triggers.
• Symptom Tracking: Use of pain diaries and activity logs to identify triggers and adjust pacing strategies.

Our educational resources include printable guides on our Fibromyalgia Care page, as well as referrals to local support groups.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Fibromyalgia management often benefits from a team approach. We coordinate care with:

• Primary Care Physicians: To monitor medication adjustments and overall health status.
• Rheumatologists: For diagnostic confirmation and autoimmune workups.
• Dietitians: For personalized anti-inflammatory meal planning.
• Pain Psychologists: For cognitive behavioral therapy and coping strategies.
• Massage Therapists: For adjunctive soft tissue work and relaxation.

This collaborative model ensures a comprehensive, cohesive treatment experience that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors.

Patient Success Stories

“I felt trapped by constant pain and brain fog. The team at OrthoRehab taught me pacing techniques and gentle exercises that dramatically reduced my flare-ups. I am more active and clear-headed now.” – Amanda, Edina

“After just six weeks of targeted physical therapy, my pain levels dropped by 50 percent. The manual therapy and sleep tips made all the difference.” – Jared, Minneapolis

Read more on our Patient Testimonials page.

Insurance & Direct Access

Most private insurance plans cover fibromyalgia physical therapy when medically necessary. Under Minnesota’s direct access law, you may begin therapy without a physician referral for up to 90 days. Medicare patients require a referral. Verify your coverage on our Insurance & Payment Options page or call our billing office at 612.355.2254.

How to Get Started

1. Call Us: Edina: 952.922.0330 or Minneapolis: 612.339.2041.
2. Book Online: Visit our Contact page to view availability and schedule your evaluation.
3. Complete New Patient Forms: Download from our New Patient Info page and bring completed copies to your first visit.

Why Choose OrthoRehab Specialists?

• Therapist-Owned & Operated: Patient outcomes drive our care decisions.
• One-on-One Care: Consistency with the same therapist each session.
• Evidence-Based Practice: We follow APTA guidelines and current research.
• Collaborative Model: Coordination with physicians, dietitians, and psychologists.
• Convenient Locations: Flexibility in Edina and Minneapolis clinic hours.

Take Charge of Your Fibromyalgia Care

Don’t let widespread pain control your life. Contact OrthoRehab Specialists to schedule your fibromyalgia evaluation and begin a comprehensive journey toward improved function, reduced pain, and enhanced well-being.