What Situation or Injury Led You to ORSI?
I arrived at OrthoRehab Specialists after a skiing accident resulted in a broken and dislocated right shoulder. The injury required immediate surgical repair and a period in a sling, but I knew that restoring full function would require skilled physical therapy beyond what a general outpatient clinic offered. My surgeon recommended I seek out a practice with a strong reputation in orthopedic rehabilitation, and that led me to OrthoRehab and Terry Buisman, PT.
How Would You Categorize Your Story?
This is a recovery success story marked by persistence, expert guidance, and measurable progress toward full shoulder mobility and strength. Over the eight months of treatment I received at ORSI, I experienced a clear continuum of care that began with thorough evaluation, continued through advanced manual therapy, targeted exercise programming, and ongoing education. At each stage I was able to see and feel the gains, both in range of motion and in daily comfort.
Please Share Your Experience
My first visit included a comprehensive evaluation of shoulder joint mobility, muscle strength, and posture. Terry assessed my surgical scar tissue, measured my active and passive shoulder flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation, and tested scapular stabilization. He explained exactly which structures were tight or weak and reviewed the surgical report so he could tailor each intervention. From day one I was given a clear plan of care that combined hands-on joint mobilizations, gentle soft tissue massage, and home exercise instructions.
During early sessions, I focused on pain management and protected range of motion. Terry used manual therapy to reduce adhesions around the surgical repair site and to improve circulation to the healing tissues. Modalities such as ice and moist heat were incorporated to manage inflammation. Once I was able to tolerate more active movement, I began resistance band exercises to re-educate my rotator cuff muscles and periscapular stabilizers.
Throughout my journey, the team at ORSI emphasized patient education and empowerment. I was taught how to perform each exercise with precise form, how to adjust intensity, and how to recognize signs of overuse versus healthy muscle demand. I was also provided with video links and printed handouts so I could review technique at home. Every question I asked about scar mobilization, shoulder blade positioning, or home ergonomics was answered fully and respectfully.
What Goals Did OrthoRehab Help You Accomplish?
By the three-month mark I had regained enough range of motion to reach overhead without pain. My goal was to return to light weightlifting and recreational golf. Terry progressed my program by introducing light dumbbell presses, cable lateral raises, and resisted scapular retraction drills. Each adjustment built on previous gains, ensuring that I never pushed too far too soon.
By month six I was clearing 150 degrees of active shoulder elevation and 50 degrees of external rotation. My rotator cuff strength test results showed symmetry within 10 percent of my uninjured side. This allowed me to resume golf swings, overhead racks in the gym, and lifting my small children without hesitation. My final goal was to feel confident enough to avoid wearing a shoulder support brace during hikes and weekend projects.
At eight months I was discharged with full active and passive range of motion, near-normal strength, and a self-managed maintenance plan. This plan included functional exercises for daily activities, posture correction cues for work at my desk, and periodic check-ins via phone or video link. I was encouraged to return for a follow-up evaluation at six months to monitor long-term wellness.
Key Components of My Rehabilitation
- Initial Evaluation, detailed assessment of surgical repair site and baseline strength testing
- Manual Therapy, joint mobilizations and soft tissue release to break up scar adhesions
- Therapeutic Exercise, gradual progression from passive range of motion to resistance training
- Neuromuscular Re-education, scapular stabilization drills and proprioceptive training
- Home Exercise Program, customized videos and handouts to reinforce in-clinic progress
- Patient Education, instruction on posture, body mechanics, and activity modifications
- Progress Monitoring, regular measurement of range of motion and strength symmetry
Why ORSI Stands Out
I experienced true patient centered care and support. The clinic environment is welcoming, appointments run on time, and therapists take the time to listen and adjust treatment plans as needed. The close collaboration among therapists, administrative staff, and consulting physicians created a seamless experience. Communication was clear and consistent, whether I had scheduling questions or needed to update my home program due to travel, ORSI made it easy to stay on track.
ORSI’s physical therapy services extend far beyond shoulder care. I learned about complementary programs such as Pilates for core stability and balance and gait training that can benefit anyone recovering from injury. I have already referred friends with knee surgery and back pain to the Minneapolis and Edina clinics because I know the high quality of care they will receive.
Contact ORSI to Begin Your Recovery Journey
If you have experienced a shoulder injury, whether from sports, a fall, or a surgical procedure, OrthoRehab Specialists can help you restore function and confidence. Visit our Contact Us page or call 952.922.0330 to schedule your initial evaluation. Our team of expert therapists, led by Terry Buisman, PT, is ready to design a comprehensive plan that meets your goals and fits your lifestyle.
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