Medical professionals of all types refer their patients to Orthopedic Massage Professionals because they have come to trust our evidence-based approach to treat the most complex conditions. You can refer in confidence, knowing that our therapists have advanced certifications and excellent clinical reasoning skills. We complete a thorough history and holistic assessment with every patient to ensure the highest likelihood of a positive outcome. We encourage and appreciate communication from our referring clinicians regarding phased post-operative rehab protocols, implanted device locations, and other pertinent information that would help to ensure a positive outcome for the patient. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have about the methods and techniques we use, or to help determine if orthopedic massage is indicated for your patient. We look forward to working with you to provide your patients with top-notch care.
See what our referring clinicians have to say.
When treating a patient in physical therapy, there are cases when a referral to a licensed massage therapist is warranted in order comprehensively address deficits and achieve patient goals. I feel very confident referring patients to Tom Kramer for treatment. Tom is a unique practitioner in that he also is a licensed physical therapist assistant. His versatile background allows for extensive knowledge of the musculoskeletal system. I trust his skillset and have confidence in the treatment that he provides.
Jennifer McNamara, DPT
I had the pleasure of personally working with Tom while I was a PT student. He was working at as a PTA in one of my clinical affiliations. He is knowledgeable and personable, the combination that helps you grow while also making you comfortable with that growth. As a clinician, I have patients that are no longer in need of formal therapy but would still benefit from massage. I trust Tom’s clinical knowledge and thorough evaluations, and the patients I have directed to him have all expressed their satisfaction with his service. For these reasons, I continue to direct my patients toward his care.
Clay Heebner DPT, PT
Tom is very professional, and always puts clients’ needs first. He has a great medical mind and is able to tailor each treatment session to the individual based on their body impairments.
Brittany Pfautz DPT, PT
What is orthopedic massage?
Orthopedic massage is a holistic, evidence-based model of treatment that seeks to address root causes of chronic pain by identifying static and active adaptive postural patterns. Identifying adaptive patterns along with a thorough patient history uncover the patient’s pain generator. Distinguishing between joint pain, nerve pain, and muscle/soft tissue pain is essential for a positive outcome.
The assessment begins with orthopedic testing, which is used to rule out tears, and other traumas that would require that the patient be referred out for imaging. Partial tears do not necessarily preclude the patient from benefitting from orthopedic massage, and is determined on a case by case basis. Then, a proper assessment of strength, reflexes, and range of motion in each major joint inform treatment protocol.
Techniques used include myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, deep-tissue massage, Graston technique, active cupping techniques, and kinesiotaping.
Patients are seen 2-3 times per week initially to break adaptive patterns, while home exercise and self care introduce a new, healthy pattern. It is our ultimate goal to see patients as infrequently as possible by empowering patients with home exercise instruction and self-care techniques. While there are some complex patients that will have continued maintenance care, we prefer to have “graduates” rather than “regulars”.