North Platte Physical Therapy - Casper (East)

 
 

North Platte Physical Therapy, an integral part of the Casper community since 1997, opened a second location in 2010 in order to provide more convenient therapy options for Casper and the surrounding areas.

We offer a variety of treatment techniques to provide the therapy each patient needs to achieve success. Each patient is given the time needed in each therapy session to achieve evidence-based goals and improve his or her quality of life – no time limit is ever imposed on any patient.

Therapists at NPPT provide cost-effective, professional, fun, energetic care, and our patients benefit from team-oriented, supportive, and knowledgeable staff. We excel in therapy for sports injuries, work injuries, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation, pain management for back and neck pain, headaches, etc., as well as in wound care, orthotics, sports conditioning and aquatic therapy. NPPT also provides pre-employment screenings, back-to-work physicals and functional capacity exams. Many NPPT therapists are certified or specialize in trigger point dry needling, aquatic therapy, orthopedic manual therapy, hand therapy, and kinesio taping, and are board certified orthopedic clinical specialists.

At North Platte Physical Therapy Casper, we provide the highest quality physical therapy in a welcoming and positive environment and are committed to superior customer service.

Location Details

307-234-2662 Send Email

Address: 311 Thelma Drive, Casper, WY 82609
Hours: Mon - Fri: 7AM - 6PM
Fax: 307-234-8810

Interested in scheduling at our West location? View Casper West Details

Meet the Staff

Mike Boulter, DPT, OCS, SFMA

Clinic Supervisor

As a native of Casper, it has been a pleasure to return and be a part of our great community once again. Having been fascinated with the human body and its ability to adapt and recover, the field of physical therapy was, is, and will continue to be a perfect fit for me. Being able to develop relationships with patients is an amazing opportunity, as is interacting with other medical professionals and being part of a comprehensive team. As an outpatient orthopedic therapist, I have found joy in working with many different people including high-profile athletes, postoperative patients, work-injured patients, and the geriatric population.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of Montana
  • Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance, with an emphasis in Exercise Science, University of Montana
  • Associate of Science in Life Science Pre-Physical Therapy, Casper College

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
  • Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP)
  • Certified Level II Trigger Point Dry Needler
  • Graston Technique Certified
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Vestibular Certification
  • Certification in Applied Functional Science, Gray Institute 
  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • IAOM Elbow Course
  • IAOM Wrist Course
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • A Systematic Approach to Examination, Diagnosis, and Manual Therapy of the Wrist Part 1
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • A/B VR
  • ErgoScience FCE Trained
  • Work-Related Patients
  • Subspecialty in Amputation and Prosthetic Training
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Certifications in Progress:

  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT)

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedics
 
Alynna Woodbury, DPT, SFMA

I believe that physical therapy is a special kind of practice, allowing us to spend quality time with our patients and treat them on both a physical and emotional level.  Other healthcare professionals only get to spend a limited amount of time with their patients, but I enjoy the opportunity to take the time to get to know my patients and form a personal bond with them.  I take pride in seeing my patients succeed and make it my goal to help them feel better.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of Mary 

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Certified Graston Technique Clinician
  • Worksaver Certified Tester
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Specialized Training in Pregnancy and Postpartum, Pelvic Floor, and Visceral Manipulation
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction

Continuing Education Training:

  • Kinesio Taping KT1
  • Dry Needling
  • Muscle Energy Technique
  • Running Mechanics and Injury
  • Certificate of Training for Sole Supports Casting
  • Diaphragm and Pelvic Floor Rehab

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Pelvic Health and Sports
 
Sean Cometto, DPT, LAT, ATC

I was introduced to physical therapy as a patient after a sports injury when I was a sophomore at Kelly Walsh High School. I went to North Platte Physical Therapy, where I learned about the profession and developed a keen interest in how the human body moves. I decided being a physical therapist was what I wanted to do and moved to North Dakota for college to study Athletic Training and Physical Therapy. While I was in Physical Therapy school, I worked at Sanford Health as an Athletic Trainer in a variety of different sports with athletes of all ages. I am excited to be back in Casper and hope to continue practicing the mission of my University: being a servant leader to all those in the community of Casper.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training, University of Mary

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Licensed and Certified in Athletic Training 
  • American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Certified
  • Certified clinician of Concussion Rehabilitation through CCMI
  • Concussion Rehabilitation
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Certification in Progress:

  • Running Analysis and Rehabilitation

Continuing Education Training:

  • SFMA Level 1

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedics
  • National Athletic Training Association (NATA)

Hometown: Casper, Wyoming

Hobbies: Running, Golf, Soccer, Hiking, and Anything Outdoors.

 
Michael Wright, DPT

While growing up, I knew I wanted to find work that would allow me to make a difference in other people's lives. Physical therapy stood out above the rest when I was introduced to the field following an injury in my youth. I realized that Physical Therapists spend time with patients over weeks to get to know the person behind the injury and use noninvasive techniques to heal. From then on, that motivated me throughout my education to become a healer. Now that I am practicing in the field, my passion for repairing and restoring each of my patients to their best self only continues to grow with each passing year.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Utah Valley University 

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • American Red Cross Certification in CPR and First Aid 
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine

Certification in Progress:

  • Trigger Point Dry Needling 

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedics

Hometown: Orem, Utah

Hobbies: Board games, biking, camping, and hanging out with my family

 
Ana Kroll, PTA

My interest in physical therapy was piqued when I learned of the various ways Physical Therapy can make a difference in a person's life. I am passionate about helping others and strive to make sure patients feel comfortable and understood.

Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapist Assistant, Laramie County Community College

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Certified in Functional Capacity Evaluations 
  • Certification in Applied Functional Science, Gray Institute
  • Blood Flow Restriction Certification
  • American Red Cross CPR Certification
  • Certified Lifeguard
  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • IAOM Elbow Course
  • IAOM Wrist Course
  • IAOM Wrist and Hand Training
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Hometown: Glenrock, Wyoming

Hobbies: Outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and antiques.

 

 

Services Offered

Latest News & Info

When to Use Ice Versus Heat for Injuries

October 10, 2018

When to Use Ice Versus Heat for Injuries
When you are hurting from a muscle strain or an injury, you might be wondering if you should treat your pain with ice or heat. Treating chronic pain with either can be highly effective, but it’s crucial to know which situations call for which treatment—and which call for both. Take the advice of a physical therapist to ensure you are using them effectively.
Let’s take a look at when you should be using ice versus heat.

Use Heat for Muscle Pain or Stiffness

There are two different types of heat you can use for muscle pain or stiffness: dry heat and moist heat. If you have ever used a heating pad, then you know how easy it is to apply dry heat. Moist heat can come from a source such as a steaming towel or a hot bath.
There is also heat from an ultrasound, which can be highly effective. Sitting in a sauna is another option.
Heat therapy can soothe muscles and damaged tissue because it increases blood flow and temperature in the area, which promotes healing. Be sure you are using warm heat rather than hot.

Be sure you do not use heat therapy for the following:
  • There is a bruise or burn in the affected area.
  • There is a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, dermatitis, multiple sclerosis, or vascular disease that can be negatively affected by the heat.
  • If you are pregnant, use of a hot tub or sauna for heat therapy is not recommended.
Applying heat therapy to the affected area for 15 to 30 minutes is often enough to relieve pain and stiffness.

Use Ice for Injuries, Pain, Inflammation, and Swelling

Cold therapy does the opposite of heat therapy in that it draws blood flow away from the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation. It also numbs the area, temporarily relieving pain.
You can purchase ice packs at the drugstore, which you keep in the freezer to use when needed. They come in all different kinds of shapes and sizes.
There are also coolant sprays available. Ice baths are another option that athletes often use to reduce potential swelling after a particularly tough workout.
Don’t use cold therapy if you have sensory disorders or poor circulation.
Never apply a cold pack directly to the skin; wrap it first in a towel or cloth or it can damage the skin and tissues.
Cold therapy is most effective when it is used several times throughout the day for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, applied to the affected area.
If you need more information about treating pain or injuries with ice or heat, give us a call today. North Platte is your go-to local physical therapist in Douglas, WY to provide the services that will get you feeling better and stronger. Our expert staff is respected throughout the Wyoming and Nebraska areas for providing superior and customized physical therapy services. We can handle any of your physical therapy needs. Fill out our contact form to get started and to find a location near you.
 
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Casper Physical Therapy Tips to Combat Sedentary Lifestyles

October 3, 2018

Casper Physical Therapy Tips to Combat Sedentary Lifestyles
If you have a desk job and a commute into work every day, you are like many people who spend too much time sitting all day. Some experts are calling this the “new smoking” because it is having such a detrimental impact on our overall health—similar to the negative effects of smoking cigarettes. A lot of people are even suffering from chronic pain because of this unhealthy way of life. There are things you can do, however, and here are some tips from a Casper physical therapy expert.

Take Frequent Walking Breaks

It’s easy to sit at your desk hour after hour without getting up, but frequent walking breaks is good for your health. Instead of instant messaging someone in your office, get up and walk to speak face-to-face. If you forget to get up, get one of the popular fitness trackers on the market and set up reminders to get up for a few minutes every hour or so. (These trackers can also help make sure you get a minimum number of steps in each day.)

Take the Stairs

If you have the opportunity to choose the stairs or an elevator, always take the stairs. Stair-climbing burns a lot of calories—and it is good for your heart.

Stand Up When You Can

When you are a phone call stand up and walk around, if possible. Or ask your company to invest in a standing desk for you. Most of them are affordable and adjustable so you can move back and forth between sitting and standing.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is good for your body—and it will mean more frequent trips to the restroom, which will get you moving more. If you are wondering just how much water is enough, take a look at this article: How Much Water Should You Drink Each Day?

Park Far Away

Don’t look for the closest parking spot; find one that will force you to walk a bit farther—whether you are at the office or the mall. This is a good way to incorporate more walking into your day.

Hit the Gym or the Trail

If you aren’t already working out, make it a part of your normal routine. You don’t need to spend hours each day at the gym or run 10 miles at a time to benefit. Even just 20 minutes a day will go a long way toward improving your health.
If you can incorporate the above tips into your life, you will be well on your way to staying in motion, which is crucial for your overall wellbeing.

Contact North Platte Physical Therapy to learn more about the effects a sedentary lifestyle can have on your body. Our staff is admired throughout the Wyoming and Nebraska areas because of our commitment to our clients. We can fulfill comprehensive physical therapy services, and we are happy to customize a treatment plan that can help you go to your job every day without serious health ramifications. Give us a call!
 
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Advice on Warming Up Versus Stretching Before Your Workout

September 26, 2018

Advice on Warming Up Versus Stretching Before Your Workout
For most people, when they hear the terms “stretching” and “warming up” they consider them to be the same thing. But the fact is that they are two different things that serve two different purposes for your body. When it comes to your workout, both are important and should be a part of your routine. Let’s take a look at how a Cheyenne, WY physical therapist defines the two and explains when it is appropriate for both in your training program.

The Difference Between Stretching and Warming Up

Warming up is the act of increasing your core temperature and getting blood to flow to your muscles. Stretching is designed to help increase your flexibility as well as your range of motion. Warming up should be done before your workout whereas stretching should be done afterward—or when you body is already warm.
Read what the experts at Fitness Magazine have to say about getting your body warmed up prior to a workout in this article: The 5-Minute Warm-Up You Need Before Any Workout.

The Benefits of Stretching and Warming Up

Warming up—When you warm up before working out, you increase your heart rate, which means your muscles get more blood and oxygen. It also raises your body temperature so that your muscles and tendons will work better during strenuous exercise. If you have any tightness in your muscles before working out, a warmup will help decrease that. It will also improve your range of motion.
Most experts recommend that you warm up the muscles you plan to focus on during your workout. For instance, if you are at the gym to do back squats, air squats should be part of your pre-workout warmup routine.
Stretching—It’s best to stretch when your body is already warmed up, so it often makes the most sense to stretch after your workout rather than before. Stretching will help increase flexibility, which can decrease your chance of feeling pain—after a workout or on a daily basis. Stretching one part of the body often impacts another part. For example, if you stretch the hamstring area regularly, this can lessen the chance that you’ll have a sore back from sitting at a computer all day. 
Whether you are a serious athlete or a weekend warrior, injury prevention means that you can enjoy your activities rather than sit on the bench. Be sure to warm up and stretch every time you work out.
Find out more about the importance of stretching and warming up, as well as Sportsmetrics, which is a scientifically proven program designed to help prevent serious knee injuries, by contacting our office.
If you have suffered an injury and want to add physical therapy to your routine, North Platte is your go-to local physical therapist in Cheyenne, WY to provide the services that will get you feeling better and stronger. Our expert staff is respected throughout the Wyoming and Nebraska areas for providing superior and customized physical therapy services. We can handle any of your physical therapy needs. Fill out our contact form to get started and to find a location near you.

 
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