Chronic Pain

Find Relief For Your Chronic Pain in Rochester, MN

At Optimal Movement in Rochester, MN, we understand the challenges that come with living with chronic pain. Our dedicated team uses a blend of massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture to help alleviate your discomfort and enhance your overall well-being. Whether your pain stems from an old injury, a chronic condition, or the stresses of everyday life, our personalized treatment plans are designed to target your specific needs and help you regain comfort and mobility. Experience the relief you’ve been seeking and take your first step towards a more active and pain-free life with Optimal Movement.

Common Risk Factors and Causes of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can arise from a variety of factors, often making it a complex condition to manage. It is frequently linked to injuries, such as those sustained in accidents or from repetitive strain, which may not heal properly. Underlying health conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines also contribute significantly to chronic pain. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as poor posture, inadequate ergonomics, lack of exercise, and obesity can exacerbate the intensity and frequency of pain episodes. Psychological factors, including prolonged stress and depression, have also been recognized to influence chronic pain, suggesting the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Symptoms of Chronic Pain

Persistent pain that lasts for weeks, months, or even longer

Pain that may be described as aching, burning, shooting, or electrical

Stiffness or a lack of mobility in affected areas

Muscle aches or soreness

Fatigue or a general feeling of being unwell

Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep

Mood changes, including feelings of depression or anxiety

Weakened immune system response, leading to frequent infections or illness

How we treat Chronic Pain in Rochester, MN

At Optimal Movement in Rochester, MN, we adopt a comprehensive approach to treating chronic pain that integrates massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. Our team begins with a thorough assessment to identify the root causes of your pain, followed by a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. By combining the precision of chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal alignment and nerve function, with the soothing techniques of massage therapy and the balancing effects of acupuncture, we aim to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Our goal is to not only alleviate your symptoms but also to restore your body’s natural movement and improve your quality of life. We believe in empowering our patients through education and supportive care, enabling you to maintain and enhance your well-being long after treatment.

Our Staff Who Can Help With Chronic Pain

At Optimal Movement, our team of experienced massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists are dedicated to helping you manage and relieve chronic pain. Each staff member brings specialized knowledge and compassionate care to ensure you receive the most effective treatment tailored to your individual needs.

Dr. Philip Kish L.Ac
Doctor of Acupuncture

Dr. Philip Kish L.Ac

Doctor of Acupuncture

Dr. Philip Kish L.Ac

Philip is a dedicated and passionate practitioner who combines principles of Eastern and Western Medicine practices with Movement Based Therapies to help individuals think, move, and feel the best they possibly can. His Studies Include Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Exercise Science, and a Doctorate In Eastern Medicine and Acupuncture. Philip specializes in the treatment of Sports and Orthopedic Injuries, Joint Function/Mobility Assessment, Athletic Performance Enhancement, Neurological and Receptor Dysfunction, Food and Supplement Therapy.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Email:philip@optimal-movement.com

Dr. Kyler Maxfield
Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Kyler Maxfield

Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Kyler Maxfield

Dr. Kyler has a deep passion for helping people. He got his bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Luther College in Decorah, Iowa and was a board-certified Athletic Trainer before obtaining his Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northwestern Health Sciences University. Dr. Kyler brings a unique combination from his Athletic Training background and pairs it with his holistic Chiropractic training to help people of all ages obtain their maximum potential. Dr. Kyler uses every appointment to fully understand the person in front of him and what their main complaints are in order to individualize each treatment making sure that all questions are answered, and all concerns are addressed. In his free time, Dr. Kyler enjoys spending time outside with his wife, Abbie, and two sons, Otto and Bodhi. He also enjoys playing basketball and golf.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Email:DrKyler@optimal-movement.com

Services

Brittany Cupery
Licensed Massage Therapist

Brittany Cupery

Licensed Massage Therapist

Brittany Cupery

Brittany first learned of the mind-body connection while working at a mental health clinic. From there, Brittany discovered massage therapy and its positive effects on one's physical and mental health. Brittany graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2023 with an Associate of Applied Science in Massage Therapy. Through her 1250+ hour education, she has spent time working with various populations, learning techniques in Swedish relaxation, deep tissue, trigger-point therapy, trauma-informed care, acupressure, cupping, and much more. Brittany prioritizes creating a safe space to assist her clients in releasing tension and finding balance. In her free time, Brittany enjoys crafting, hiking, working out at the gym, or simply spending time with her husband and their fur babies.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Phone:507-993-0830

Email:feelbetter@optimal-movement.com

Services

Marisol Torres
Licensed Massage Therapist

Marisol Torres

Licensed Massage Therapist

Marisol Torres

Marisol grew up in Southeast Minnesota, where she completed her high school education at Austin, MN High School. It was during her formative years at age 11 that Marisol's initial encounter with the world of massage therapy took place, as she observed her mother grappling with pain and discomfort. Witnessing the transformative power of physical touch in the realms of healing and recovery ignited a passionate spark within her for the art of massage therapy. In her pursuit of this passion, Marisol diligently pursued her educational goals, ultimately achieving a 600-hour certificate in massage therapy from Riverland Community Technical College in May 2022. Her skillful approach to massage therapy seamlessly weaves together a repertoire of techniques, including Swedish massage, Trigger-point therapy, Reflexology, and tailored upper body stretches, all thoughtfully applied to address the unique needs of each client. Additionally, Marisol's expertise extends to the incorporation of fluid relaxation techniques, enhancing the overall massage experience. Outside of her professional life, Marisol finds solace and inspiration in creative endeavors, indulging her love for drawing and painting. She also dedicates time to her personal well-being by engaging in physical fitness activities at the gym. Her interests extend to the world of fashion and shopping, reflecting a diverse range of interests that contribute to her holistic approach to life.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Email:Feelbetter@optimal-movement.com

Services

Renata Milosavljevic
Massage Student & Reiki Practitioner

Renata Milosavljevic

Massage Student & Reiki Practitioner

Renata Milosavljevic

Renata is a dedicated student in Massage Therapy with a passion for holistic healing. Currently honing her skills at Optimal Movement, she is poised to embark on her externship, eager to apply her knowledge in Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, deep tissue techniques, therapeutic massage, cupping, and stretching techniques. Renata is also a seasoned Reiki practitioner, with years of experience channeling the universal life force energy to promote healing, balance, and wellness. Her journey in becoming a Reiki Master is where she discovered her gifts in massage and learned the positive effects on the mind, body, and soul. Renata excels in educating clients and empowering them to take an active role in their wellness journey. With a compassionate approach and a commitment to ongoing learning, Renata is poised to make a significant impact in the field of massage therapy. Renata’s background consists of a long ancestral line of healers. She is originally from Bosnia where her grandfather was a renowned shaman. Inspired by him, she continues the tradition in the healing arts. Renata enjoys being able to bridge the gap between holistic and Western medicine while providing a safe and nurturing atmosphere in which to heal. Renata is always looking to integrate new treatments and therapies into her practice and believes that continued learning is important for any good Reiki Master and Massage Therapist. In her free time, Renata enjoys being out in nature hiking, swimming, kayaking, walking, and exploring the great outdoors. She cherishes moments with loved ones and infuses her creativity into crafting Reiki-infused candles, bath bombs, and jewelry. Renata finds peace in yoga and reading and enjoys cuddling with her beloved cat Luna.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Gunter Mussell
Licensed Massage Therapist

Gunter Mussell

Licensed Massage Therapist

Gunter Mussell

Gunter grew up in Southeast Minnesota and graduated from Zumbrota-Mazeppa High School. He served for 5 years in the Navy before moving back here to Rochester where he pursued a career in the medical field as an EMT for the past 5 years. He has witnessed the positive influence of physical touch in the healing and rehabilitation process which piqued his interest in massage therapy. Gunter graduated from Riverland Community Technical College with his certificate in massage therapy where he learned Swedish massage, Trigger-point therapy, Deep tissue, sports massage, and cupping therapy. In his free time Gunter enjoys spending time in nature and loves camping, hunting, fishing, or tinkering on any number of woodworking projects for his friends and family.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Ryan Hoyme
Licensed Massage Therapist

Ryan Hoyme

Licensed Massage Therapist

Ryan Hoyme

Neuromuscular Therapy, Prenatal Massage, Geriatric Massage, Swedish Massage, Massage Cupping, Active Isolated Stretching, Myofascial Release, Active Release Technique, Lomi Lomi Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Oncology Massage, Reflexology, Hospice Massage, Hospital Based Massage, Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), and many others. Ryan embarked on his journey as a massage therapist back in 1997 when he graduated from the Sister Rosalind School of Professional Massage. Since then, Ryan has consistently expanded his knowledge and qualifications, earning an associate of applied science in massage from Minnesota School of Business and a bachelor's degree in Health Studies from Siena Heights University. Ryan's contributions to the field of massage therapy extend beyond his practice. He has authored two books on massage, served as an instructor for over a decade, and taught massage not only in the United States but abroad through online platforms, too. His expertise has earned him the distinction of being a judge at the World Championship in Massage held in Denmark, a role he has held since 2017. Ryan has garnered numerous awards throughout his career and has been inducted into the American and International Massage Therapy Hall of Fame. In addition to his hands-on work and instructional activities, Ryan is the owner of the largest massage-related website, www.massagenerd.com. He also has the largest YouTube channel dedicated to massage, featuring a vast collection of instructional videos. Ryan's written works have graced the pages of many distinguished massage publications. His influence extends into the entertainment industry, as one of his massage videos featured in the Emoji Movie. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ryan cherishes spending quality time with his wife and two daughters. He also has a passion for traveling the world to learn from therapists and practitioners from diverse cultural backgrounds, further enriching his expertise and dedication to the field of massage therapy.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

YouTube:View Profile

Services

Marissa Fitzsimmons
Licensed Massage Therapist

Marissa Fitzsimmons

Licensed Massage Therapist

Marissa Fitzsimmons

Living along the water of the Mississippi River, Marissa has always called Minnesota her home & the ones who live in southern MN her community. An advocate for self-development & body positivity, she aspires to optimize her overall well-being while helping others do the same. Marissa completed a 700-hour program at Minnesota School of Cosmetology & believes the learning has just begun for her! Having graduated in September of 2022, Marissa is interested in myofascial release, advanced therapeutic techniques, & cupping therapy. She also loves the style of Swedish massage & the benefits it has to offer for her clients. Marissa values the power of solitude & surrounding herself with her loved ones (especially her dog Koda)— You can spot her cheering at sporting events, soaking up the sun or rereading the Harry Potter series. She is looking forward to working with everyone at Optimal Movement & is excited to learn more about the world of massage therapy from them. “relaxation is a practice, so whenever I give someone that space to truly relax it brings a lot of opportunity for healing… that means more than anything to me.”

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Rick Fulton
RYT/Somatic Yoga Therapist

Rick Fulton

RYT/Somatic Yoga Therapist

Rick Fulton

Rick is a compassionate and dedicated practitioner of Yoga and is also a Somatic Yoga Therapist. Oftentimes our natural movement patterns are obscured by pain and injuries stemming from bad habits, trauma or overuse. Rick helps his clients find their bodies’ intended patterns through body awareness, breathework, muscle activation exercises, and muscle activation therapy liberating the individual from pain. He is a certified 500hr soma yoga therapy instructor and studies yoga therapy at Yoga North Soma Yoga Institute in Duluth, MN, where he focuses on Thomas Hannah clinical somatics, Buteyko breathing, therapeutic yoga, ayurveda and classic hatha yoga. He is also a AFPA certified holistic wellness coach and holistic nutritionist, as well as a French Culinary Chef.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Deb Strand
Licensed Massage Therapist

Deb Strand

Licensed Massage Therapist

Deb Strand

Deb was first introduced to massage therapy while working at a jewelry company. While there, she developed chronic pain patterns from working long hours, performing detailed work with a bad posture. After getting a massage, she was amazed by the relief she felt from her chronic muscle tension. Ever since, Deb has been fascinated by holistic and natural approaches to facilitating wellness and balancing the mind-body-spirit connection. Deb combines Deep Tissue, Orthopedic, and Trigger Point Therapy as needed to treat each client’s specific needs while also incorporating relaxation techniques into her massages. Deb received her certification in massage therapy from the Minnesota Riverland Technical College in Rochester, MN and has been practicing massage therapy for the past seven years. In her free time, Deb likes to stay active. She has a passion for working out, spending time with her family, hiking with her dogs, collecting crystals and gems, and absorbing as much knowledge as she can.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Natalie Barry
Licensed Massage Therapist

Natalie Barry

Licensed Massage Therapist

Natalie Barry

Natalie is from Rochester, MN and embarked on her journey into the world of massage through the inspiration of her mother, who was a trained massage therapist herself. Her passion and dedication for massage therapy grew and eventually led her to the Massage and Spa Professional Academy, where she completed her hours in 2008. Her expertise lies in the realms of neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. Natalie emphasizes that stress, especially repetitive motions in the mind as well as the body are the cause for strain and injury, and by relaxing the mind, your body will follow. Having a wide variety of life experience was important to Natalie, so she made the exciting decision of moving to a warmer climate in her previous years. Here, she embraced a laid back lifestyle, basking in the sunshine while working on a snorkel boat and at a boutique hotel. Natalie enjoys expressing herself creatively. In her free time you'll find her exploring new recipes, skillfully baking both traditional and vegan meals, and taking on ambitious remodeling projects. She loves to think of herself as a Jane of all trades! Natalie's journey in the field of massage has been marked by both consistency and variety. She has practiced massage on and off over the years, and now, she is excited to be offering her services regularly.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Pan Yang
Licensed Massage Therapist

Pan Yang

Licensed Massage Therapist

Pan Yang

Pan comes from the original family of Thai Traditional Massage Healing Hands. Pan offers Deep Tissue and Medical massage. Her passion is helping people get out of pain through massage. Pan got into healing hands massage when she was 8 years old as a result of an injury that her mother suffered. Her mother taught her how to palpate and massage her injured hip and it worked like magic. Her mom was able to walk a short time after teaching her these traditional techniques. As pan was young, she ignored her calling and gift of healing through massage until she was injured in a car accident herself. Through chiropractic and massage therapy she was able to heal and felt that massage was her true calling. Pan has over 800 hours of training and has obtained her associates degree in Massage Therapy. She also went to the Thai Healing Therapy Massage School and is a level 2 practitioner in Thai Yoga Massage. Pan is very passionate about helping people to relieve their stress and pain. She has 15 years of experience as a licensed practitioner in the state of Minnesota. Pan is very skilled in trigger point therapy, pressure point therapy, deep tissue massage and in the treatment of chronic pain. Pan enjoys treating rotator cuff injuries, tingling and numbness in arms and hands, migraine headaches, sciatica, muscle strains, and low back pain.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Katie Trelstad-Andrist APRN, CNP
Nurse Practitioner

Katie Trelstad-Andrist APRN, CNP

Nurse Practitioner

Katie Trelstad-Andrist APRN, CNP

Katie has always had a passion for holistic health care. While in nursing school she took a course on complementary and alternative therapies, sparking her interest in all things holistic. Growing up in the Rochester area, Katie has worked in allopathic medicine as a registered nurse. After a medical relief trip to devastated parts of Louisiana, after hurricane Katrina, she decided to pursue her degree as a Nurse Practitioner, wanting to be able to practice independently. With close to 20 years in the medical field as an RN and CNP, complementary therapies continued to pull at her heart and soul. She obtained her RYT200 and teaches Yoga; she firmly believes in the power of the breath. Her other interest include Hormone and peptide therapy, weightlifting, and other more holistic health and wellness modalities. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and her two children; they are the light of her life. She is an avid weightlifter, loves sports and the outdoors; a true Minnesotan who embraces all seasons. Connection, a sense of wholeness, and helping people achieve their best health are her passions.

La’Mika Davis
Licensed Massage Therapist

La’Mika Davis

Licensed Massage Therapist

La’Mika Davis

La’Mika has a vast knowledge on anatomy stemming from her experience in the health & fitness industry. La’Mika approaches her massages with the focus of treating the root cause of pain and not just the symptoms. She masterfully blends her skills of Deep tissue, trigger point therapy, cupping, and myofascial release to ensure the best outcomes for your mind and body. La’Mika’s work can help those suffering from chronic pain, athletes looking to improve performance, or anyone seeking to improve overall relaxation and wellness. La’Mika has a passion for sports and loves to help with youth activities. She has a creative and entrepreneurial drive, working in massage therapy, sports, and clothing. She enjoys spending time with her son and loves to travel in her time off. She is passionate about helping others grow, find balance within their bodies, and mentally being their best selves.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Services

Marisa Bite
Licensed Massage Therapist

Marisa Bite

Licensed Massage Therapist

Marisa Bite

Marisa is a licensed massage therapist specializing in deep tissue and focused therapeutic massage. She creates individualized treatments and expertly assesses how tension in the muscles and surrounding tissue are impacting the health of the rest of the body. Marisa’s sessions include gentle to firm-pressure therapeutic massage, deep tissue and trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and a variety of stretching & mobility techniques. Marisa also incorporates tool-based techniques such as cupping and gua sha with her clients’ permission. Marisa enjoys working and teaching from the heart, creating a safe, judgement and expectation-free zone in which clients can heal, achieve their personal health/wellness goals, and deepen their relationship with themselves. Marisa obtained an Associate in Applied Science degree in Massage Therapy in 2014, which consisted of 1200+ training hours. She also holds a 230-hour Yoga Instructor Certification and Advanced Reiki Certification. She has obtained continuing education in a variety of modalities including Reflexology, Mayan Abdominal Therapy, Thai massage, and (her personal favorite) Dermal Traction Method. Although massage is Marisa’s “big girl” job, she is also a certified yoga instructor and former pole fitness instructor/competitor. Bodywork, yoga, and dance have been a huge part of her personal journey and growth, and she is ecstatic to have the opportunity to share her passions and help create a community of health-conscious individuals.

Location: Rochester, Minnesota

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about managing your Chronic Pain in Rochester, Minnesota, providing you with insights and practical tips for effective relief.

What causes chronic pain to develop in some people but not others?

Chronic pain can arise from a variety of causes, including physical injuries, medical conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia, and surgeries. However, individual factors such as genetics, stress levels, and overall health also play significant roles. Some people may have a higher pain threshold or different biochemical responses that can mitigate the perception of pain, while others might be more sensitive due to neurological differences.

How does massage therapy help relieve chronic pain?

Massage therapy helps by manipulating the body’s soft tissues to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and prompt the release of endorphins which are the body’s natural painkillers. It can be particularly effective for chronic pain by helping to break the cycle of pain and muscle tension that often exacerbates conditions such as back pain or headaches.

Can acupuncture really help with chronic pain, and how does it work?

Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for chronic pain by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue, which boosts the body’s natural painkillers and increases blood flow. It’s thought that acupuncture influences the central nervous system and leads to the release of chemicals into the muscles, spinal cord, and brain, altering pain experiences and promoting a sense of wellbeing.

What lifestyle changes can support the treatment of chronic pain?

Integrating regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress are crucial lifestyle changes that can help alleviate chronic pain. Activities like yoga and tai chi are especially beneficial due to their gentle movements and stress-reducing effects. Moreover, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake can also improve overall health and potentially reduce pain.

Can chiropractic adjustments relieve chronic back pain?

Yes, chiropractic adjustments can be very effective in relieving chronic back pain. These adjustments help to restore mobility to joints restricted by tissue injury caused by a traumatic event, such as falling, or repetitive stress, such as sitting without proper back support. Chiropractic care is known to reduce pain and inflammation while improving function and mobility. It is considered a safe and effective treatment for acute and chronic back pain.

Are there any risks associated with chiropractic adjustments for chronic pain?

Besides pain relief, chiropractic care offers several other benefits including increased mobility, decreased stiffness and muscular spasms, better joint health, increased performance and energy, enhanced nervous system function, improved pulmonary function, decreased arthritic and joint pain, and increased balance and coordination. Regular chiropractic care can also reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to overall wellness.

What are the benefits of chiropractic care besides chronic pain relief?

Chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by a trained and licensed professional. However, some individuals might experience mild side effects such as temporary soreness, stiffness, or fatigue. People with certain medical conditions, like osteoporosis or inflammatory arthritis, should consult with a healthcare provider before receiving chiropractic adjustments.

How can I tell if my chronic pain is being effectively managed?

Effective pain management generally leads to increased mobility, reduced pain intensity, improved mood, better sleep quality, and enhanced ability to perform daily activities. Regular consultations with healthcare providers, tracking pain levels and symptoms, and adjusting treatments as necessary are key steps to ensure that your chronic pain management strategies are working effectively.

Patient Testimonials

EXCELLENT
574 reviews on
Daniel Chavez
Daniel Chavez
April 15, 2024
Excelente service. And beautiful environment. Thanks.
Tracy Lermon
Tracy Lermon
April 13, 2024
Whenever I schedule an appointment I take whichever massage therapist that fits my schedule. That being said, I have never had the same therapist twice. I have never had a bad experience.
Jillianne Christian
Jillianne Christian
April 10, 2024
This was my first time seeing Dr. Kyler after having some major hip/lower back pain and he completely listened to my concerns 100% and focused on what I was telling him! Will be back for sure!
Heather Rivers
Heather Rivers
April 4, 2024
I recently tried IV Therapy after getting slammed with virus after virus this winter. I was really struggling with recovery, fatigue and dizziness. Never heard of this service before but figured I had nothing to lose. The staff was really kind throughout and recommended which one they thought would be the most beneficial. Within hours I had more energy and two days later I was back at the gym. It was just what was needed to feel well again. So grateful for the help!!
Jenny Cummins
Jenny Cummins
April 1, 2024
I have been experiencing Plantar Fasciitis and knee pain due to degenerative joint disease, and had 2 'failed' knee injections. Dr. Kish and I visited about different options that Optimal Movement offers, we talked about Stemwave Therapy. After a just 2 treatments of Stemwave with Dr. Kish, my knee pain was very minimal and the swelling had gone done! I was able to put pressure on my knee again and didn't notice any pain! The Stemwave Therapy was also effective for the PF in my foot and also helped with the arthritis from previous surgeries. I am able to get up after resting and no foot pain! It feels great to be pain free! If you are experiencing any type of joint pain this ranks 10/5 for me! I am glad I didn't go through more injections for a Band-Aid fix. Optimal Movement is a very calm and relaxing environment and staff is very friendly and personable! Thank you Dr. Kish!
Shaelyn Hellkamp
Shaelyn Hellkamp
March 26, 2024
They are very kind at optimal movement and made me very comfortable as I was a first time client.
Sue Hoel
Sue Hoel
March 24, 2024
Absolutely beautiful space and environment. Very calming and relaxing. My massage was given by Reneta. She was very very good. She was respectful and responsive to my needs. Very relaxing music and warm heated massage bed, dim lights…. Aaaaah. I would highly recommend seeking this therapist, any massage therapist, acupuncturist or chiropractor for treatment. Plan a self care day here. It is a wonderful place to tend to aches and pains and to destress. As the sign says upon entry into Optimal Movement. “Leave your worries and shoes at the door.” I am so very glad I chose to enter this healing space and I left feeling relaxed and grateful for the therapy.

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