North Platte Physical Therapy - Casper (West)

 
 

The Casper West clinic has been serving the needs of the surrounding community since 2010.  This clinic along with our Casper East clinic continually strives to exceed the expectations of our patients.  Our clinics are patient-focused and allow our patients to collaborate with their therapist on the optimal care for each individual.  We provide this peak level of care in an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere.

We are dedicated to providing the best orthopedic care to central Wyoming. Our staff specializes in spine and extremities. We use multiple manual therapy and exercise treatment philosophies and techniques for treating back, muscle, joint, nerve and tendon disorders. North Platte Physical Therapy provides comprehensive physical and occupational therapy services to our orthopedic, pediatric, and geriatric patients. We have an excellent functional balance re-training program and fall prevention program. We also work with athletes and sports medicine patients.

Location Details

307-234-9067  Send Email
Address: 3831 Denis Drive #200, Casper, WY 82604
Hours: Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM
Fax: 307-234-9074

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

Meet the Staff

Matt Woodbury, DPT, OCS, SFMA

Clinic Supervisor

I have both a professional and personal passion for health. I will never stop learning about the complexities of the human body and the optimal ways to promote its function.  I want to remain active, enjoy life to the fullest, and help others also attain and maintain this freedom.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of Mary
  • Bachelor of Science in Human Performance and Fitness, North Dakota State University

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
  • Certified Graston Technique Clinician
  • Worksaver Certified Tester
  • 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
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • LSVT

Continuing Education Training:

  • Kinesio Taping KT1 & KT2
  • Dry Needling
  • Muscle Energy Technique
  • Running Mechanics and Injury
  • Sole Supports Orthotic Casting
  • Various Other Orthopedic Courses

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedics and Sports

Hometown: West Fargo, North Dakota

Hobbies: Running, cycling, hanging out with family, listening to music, and watching movies

 
James Watson, DPT

As a Physical Therapist, I live for that moment when people’s eyes light up with hope because they can do what they couldn’t before. I love learning everyone’s unique story and helping them overcome their barriers in life. I am enjoying getting to better know the good people of Casper every day.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Touro University Nevada
  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Utah Valley University

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • LSVT BIG
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Certificate (PESI)

Continuing Education:

  • Management of Lower Quadrant Pathology Course 1 (Folsom) 
  • Management of Lower Quadrant Pathology Course 2 (Folsom) 
  • Institute for Brain Potential Protecting Short Term Memory  

Hometown: Layton, Utah

Hobbies: Running, baking, woodworking, hiking and entertaining my daughters.

 
Jessica Engelhardt, PTA

Like many in my field, I first became interested in Physical Therapy after a sports-related injury in high school made me a patient myself. After earning my bachelor's degree, I moved on to a Physical Therapist Assistant program. I believe that Physical Therapy can truly change an individual's life for the better. I enjoy being around people every day and getting to know them. I am compassionate and want to help others achieve their goals. I grew up in Indiana and lived in Colorado for three years before moving to Casper. I am very excited to explore this new area and discover what the community has to offer!

Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Laramie County Community College 
  • Bachelor of Science in Movement and Sport Sciences, Purdue University

Certifications:

  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR and AED)
  • LSVT
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Hometown:

  • Arcadia, Indiana

Hobbies:

  • Hiking, skiing, volleyball, and hanging out with friends and family watching movies

Tara Stadjuhar, PTA

My journey into Physical Therapy came from a love of sports and a fascination for how the body moves, functions, and heals. Being passionate about health and wellness, I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to optimal well-being. Witnessing the transformative impact of physical therapy firsthand is what fuels my love for this profession. I find immense joy in helping patients regain mobility, return to their favorite activities, and achieve their wellness goals.

Education:

  • Associates in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Western Technical College, El Paso, TX
  • Bachelors of Community Health, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • LSVT BIG
  • Blood flow restriction training
  • American Heart Association Basic life support (CPR and AED)
  • Site coordinator of Clinical education (SCCE)
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Continuing Education:

  • Kinesio tape
  • Strain counter strain

Professional Society Memberships:

  • APTA of Wyoming and New Mexico

Hometown: Las Cruces, New Mexico

Hobbies: Skiing, fly fishing, camping, woodworking, DIY projects, spending time with my family, hiking with my dogs.

 

Services Offered

Latest News & Info

What You Should Know About Casper Physical Therapy and Neck Pain

June 27, 2018

What You Should Know About Casper Physical Therapy and Neck Pain
There is nothing like pain in your neck to be a, well—real pain in the neck. People have neck pain for many different reasons, from sitting at the computer for hours a day to neck injuries that occurred in an automobile accident. Neck pain is common, but the good news is that you don’t need to live with it. Casper physical therapy can help you get the relief you have been seeking. Your physical therapist can also recommend a treatment plan to make sure your neck pain stays away.


Some of the Causes of Neck Pain


People develop neck pain for a lot of different reasons. One of the most common is because muscles in the neck are strained because of overuse. Other reasons include poor posture or worn joints. As people age, osteoarthritis can also come into play. Sometimes nerves are compressed because of back problems, and this leads to neck pain. Injuries are another common reason for neck pain, particularly those from car accidents. The jolt of being hit can cause your head to move back and forth very quickly, wreaking havoc on your neck. Whatever the cause, living with neck pain can have a huge impact on your day-to-day life, making it uncomfortable to participate in everyday activities. Sometimes neck pain can also manifest as a headache or cause dizziness.

What You Can Do on Your Own

Whether you decide to self-treat before you see a physical therapist, or if you are already seeing a physical therapist for treatment, there are some things you can do on your own to help ease your neck pain. First, make sure you stay hydrated. Obviously, this is good for your body no matter what, but keeping yourself hydrated gives the vertebrae in your back what they need to keep your spine in the proper alignment. Next, make sure you avoid putting your neck into awkward positions. For example, don’t cradle the phone between your ear and shoulder. Don’t lie down on your arms when you are sitting at a desk or table.You can also try putting ice on the areas that are most painful. Here are some suggestions for exercises you can do on your own to help get relief from your neck pain.

How Physical Therapy Can Help With Neck Pain

A physical therapist is your best resource when it comes to managing your neck pain. Not only will a physical therapist teach you exercises that can help reduce stiffness in our neck, but they can also show you how to strengthen your neck. If you are considering physical therapy for your neck pain, here’s what you can expect at your initial visit with us. When you’ve got neck pain, North Platte is your go-to local physical therapist in Casper, WY to provide the services that will get you feeling better. 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—including your neck pain. Fill out our contact form to get started and to find a location near you.







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Tips to Improve Bike Riding and Using Physical Therapy

September 27, 2017

Tips to Improve Bike Riding and Using Physical Therapy
If you are an avid bike rider, be it on the streets or in the mountains, you know that anything you can do to improve yourself or skills helps your overall efficiency. Even if you are new to the activity, it is best to be in proper form. Sometimes it just takes a quick check of habits to ensure you are using quality form. From proper form and safety tips, to benefits of local Casper physical therapy and all other locations, use these tips to make sure you are improving your biking skills.

Proper Form

When riding a bike, you should not be in pain. Make sure your bike is in proper position that fits your size and body type. Make sure your seat position is comfortable to you, and when you are pedaling, you always have your legs at a slight bend. You never want to have to fully extend your legs when pedaling. For your handle bars, you will want to stay in an upright, slanted position. When your handlebars are too low, or your seat is too high, it can cause strain on your back. If at any point you find a certain area in pain, it is time to make adjustments. Read Bicycling’s fine tune your bike fit for common problems and solutions to fix them.

Safety Tips

Each year, there are hundreds of thousands of bicyclists injured. Many of these are hit by cars. You need to remember go-to safety tips to ensure you are safe wherever you ride your bike. First and foremost, wear a helmet and stay aware of your surroundings. Do not focus on the ground when riding. If riding a bike down a street, do not ride against the flow of traffic. Know that you also have to abide by all rules that motorists also have to use. This also includes using hand signals to inform motorists or other cyclists of turns, stops, and other things while riding. If turning right in front of a vehicle, signal to the driver that you will be turning. If they do not see you, swing out to the left and slow down or stop before you cross. When riding at night, make sure you have protective reflective gear and lights on your bike.

Help and Using Physical Therapy

Did you know that using premier physical therapy is one of the top ways athletes and cyclists perfect their form? You can work with a physical therapist in a variety of ways to help you become a better rider. From setting up on a bike to finding the perfect fit for you, learn the tips and tricks to maintain proper form, working with a physical therapist will help you to avoid injury.

For a physical therapist that will help you become a better bicyclist, North Platte Physical Therapy can help. Our team of sports medicine experts will help you every step of the way to ensure you do not sustain injuries. To set up a location at an office near you, contact us today.
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Red Flags of Neck Pain Explained by Your Physical Therapist in Casper, WY and All Other Locations

August 30, 2017

Red Flags of Neck Pain Explained by Your Physical Therapist in Casper, WY and All Other Locations
Your neck plays an important role in your body. It supports your head and contains arteries that bring blood supply from your heart to your brain. When bent at an improper angle you can put as much as 60 pounds of pressure on your spine. There are a variety of issues that can arise due to issues, poor posture, and more.

With its placement, the neck is frequently used. It is important to know the red flags and signs that you may have a problem, so you can work with a physical therapist in Casper, WY to resolve it. Learn more about top neck injuries, day-to-day issues, and the ins and outs of the new thing called “text neck”.

Neck Injuries

When a person sustains a neck injury, they might not realize it’s an injury right away. With many neck injuries, one may not have immediate pain shortly after. Sometimes it can take a couple days or even weeks for symptoms to arise. If you begin to notice swelling in the area, as well as any pain, a heat-like feeling, dizziness or mental changes, tingling or numbness, or headaches, it is important to see a doctor. In fact, even after you have experienced an event that involved your neck and you are not sure if you are injured, it is important to see your doctor.

From there, they can assess the situation and make you aware of any warning signs for down the road. It is also best to work with a local physical therapist. Through a series of exercises, you can regain strength and improve your posture.

Day to Day

There are many instances in one’s day to day that an injury can occur without even realizing it. Over time, you may experience pains in the neck, whether it be sharp or radiating, stiffness, headaches, weakness or even swelling. These symptoms and more can arise from a variety of things from a pinched nerve to poor posture. When gone untreated, you may eventually fall into bad habits that create even more damage down the road.

To prevent injuring your neck in your everyday routines, make sure you always have proper posture. Also, make sure when using a computer or mobile device, that it is at eye level to keep you from bending your neck down.

What is “Text Neck”?

With the smartphone and mobile device phenomena that has become so popular over the last few decades, “text neck” is on the rise. This type of condition occurs as many use their devices throughout the day, with their neck at an angle. When looking down, one’s head can go from weighing 12 pounds to 60! This will do tremendous damage to the neck and spine. When using tablets, make sure to look down with your eyes and not bending your neck. It is also important to move your neck throughout the day. To learn more about this new condition and what to watch out for, read the Washington Posts’ ‘text neck’ is becoming an ‘epidemic’ and could wreck your spine.

To help you with any neck pain, injuries or issues, North Platte Physical Therapy can help. As your premier go-to physical therapist, our quality services will help resolve your neck pain and get you on a path to recovery. Have neck pain? Learn more symptoms to watch and how Nebraska physical therapy can help. To get started, contact us today!
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