tuning up with orthology.

Knock on wood, but my CdA training cycle has been smooth sailing (except for my first-ever saddle sore… ouchie). So, when the folks at Orthology asked if I’d be interested in a complimentary tune-up, I wasn’t quite sure what I’d have done. But, curious about its services, of course I said yes. 

So, what is  Orthology? 

Orthology is a clinic in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area that features collaborative care teams – physical therapists, chiropractors and soft tissue specialists – to help its patients recover quickly from chronic pain or injury. Providers work together to develop each patient a customized and comprehensive plan that addresses not just any aches and pains, but the root causes of them. Plans focus on mobility, flexibility, stability and agility. 

Orthology’s goal is to get you better, faster. 

My visit 

Friendly staff greeted me when I arrived at the Eden Prairie clinic for my appointment, and after some quick paperwork on an iPad, and I met both Crystal Neal, DC, and Melissa Wong, DPT, who gave me the full treatment. 

Crystal and Melissa took the time to get to know me (we even have several mutual friends!) and got the nitty gritty on what I was training for and what a typical day and week looked like.

Both providers worked on me, too, during my hourlong appointment. Following a rundown of my athletic and injury histories, they did a functional exam – including some balance and strength assessments – and treatment on my feet and hamstrings, which included: 

• Transverse friction massage – to create proliferation of cells and help remodel tissue fibers as well as tissue irritation to promote the healing process
• Tissue compliance restoration – to help lengthen shortened tissues and increase flexibility and mobility
• Neuromuscular re-education – a hands-on strengthening that creates a balance of muscular contraction at both a shortened and lengthened position as well as helps stabilize the joint and create better biomechanics 

Not gonna lie, portions of the treatment weren’t exactly pleasant and pain-free – the digging in the ball of my foot and my hamstring! – but both Crystal and Melissa made me feel relaxed and comfortable. And, the ankle and back adjustments Crystal did… sweet relief (especially considering my recent run volume)!

At the end of my appointment, both providers did a quick run down of treatment and, the next day, emailed me a detailed list of the at-home functional strength + mobility exercises to work on.

If you go (and, I highly recommend it!)

Orthology isn’t the sit-on-the-doctor’s-table-and-discuss-symptoms type of visit. You’re active, so be prepared to get a little sweaty. Bring (or wear) shorts or comfortable pants, and don’t forget your running shoes!

Orthology provided me a complimentary tune-up. Opinions are mine.