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

How Physical Therapy Can Put a Bounce in Your Step This Spring

March 6, 2019

How Physical Therapy Can Put a Bounce in Your Step This Spring
Did you know that greater-Cheyenne alone is home to nearly 100 amatuer adult baseball and softball clubs? If you’re one of these thirty-something or forty-something diamond sport athletes in the Casper, Gillette or Powell area, you’d be surprised to learn how a quick visit to North Platte Physical Therapy can help your game in gear long before summer starts, because let’s face it —it’s not your rookie season anymore! There are a variety of ways that North Platte Physical Therapy can get your body prepared for the upcoming spring and summer recreational season, whether you’re still playing the American pastime or just eager to get back in shape. For young baseball and softball players, implementing a sound arm training regimen at a young age can help you prevent injury and ensure a long playing career. 

Whether you’re a young outfielder or a veteran park league pitcher, the repetitive motion of throwing risks a variety of intricate muscle and tendon groups that are important in everyday life when the game ends. In fact, Little League Baseball has taken a variety of steps to ensure that the young arms in their ranks are utilized sparingly, so that players are at less risk of arm injury as they age. 

The friendly, professional physical therapists here at North Platte Physical Therapy can help throwers young and old improve mobility and motion to prevent and eliminate pain. Common shoulder injuries related to diamond sports include shoulder tendonitis, medial epicondylar apophysis, avulsion fractures and even ulnar collateral ligament tears. Whether you're just beginning your baseball or softball career, or in the twilight of it, patterning with a physical therapist can provide tremendous benefit. Our team can help you evaluate any pertinent weaknesses or muscle imbalances and teach and implement effective stretching routines to keep your arm in the game all summer long. Our series of arm and shoulder exercise programs can even help you improve the strength, power and endurance of the major muscle groups in your shoulder, wrists and elbow.

Lastly, know the difference between pain and fatigue. If you experience any swelling or sharp pains while throwing —stop immediately and contact your local health care provider or one of our physical therapy professionals. If your arm is sore a day after throwing, don’t throw again that day. Give the muscles and tendons in your arm time to heal and regain strength before taking the diamond again. 

Whether you’re playing in an amatuer league, or just simply plan on being more active this spring and summer, let the professional, knowledgeable and responsive team here at North Platte Physical Therapy get you prepared for your sport. Whether you’re an outdoorsman from Casper, an amatuer runner from Powell, or a hiker from Gillette, our team will always be here to help you prepare for your sport by providing you with a variety of preventative maintenance and performance enhancement treatment options.
 
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Casper Physical Therapy's Tips for Celebrating Heart Health Month

February 27, 2019

Casper Physical Therapy's Tips for Celebrating Heart Health Month
Heart disease deaths account for roughly 25 percent of the American population. February is National Heart Health Month, making it one of the best times to educate yourself on how to be healthier. From changing your eating habits to incorporating Casper physical therapy, use these go-to tips to become better understand heart health. 

Learn Important Facts About Your Heart

Heart disease ranks at the top causes of deaths for both women and men. Six different types of heart disease impact people each year. They include arrhythmia, an abnormal heartbeat, atherosclerosis, which is when the arteries become hard and cardiomyopathy, where the muscles within the heart weaken.  In addition, congenital heart defects can be present in a person at birth. In some cases, plaque can build up in the arteries, known as coronary artery disease. Last, viruses can lead to infections within the heart. 

Know the Warning Signs

Heart attacks can happen to anyone, even healthy people if they have a congenital heart defect. Keep these warning signs in your mind to help you discover if you or a loved one is undergoing a heart attack: 

Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Pain in the upper part of the body
Lightheaded feeling
Fatigue
Dizziness
Nausea, heartburn or indigestion
Cold sweats

For many people, they may not even know they're having an attack. Confusion is why it is crucial to go to a doctor or emergency care if you think you or a loved one is experiencing an attack. 

Adopt Healthier Eating Practices

Certain foods can help you improve the quality of your heart health. Some of these foods include: 

Avocados
Berries
Dark chocolate
Fish
Leafy greens
Whole grains
Tomatoes

Get Active

Did you know that getting active will not only help you to get in better shape but could save your life too? You do not need to attempt exercises and activities that you are not good at or intimidate you. When working out, you want it to be fun. This will help you seek a campaign that you can sustain. If you do not have time to go to the gym, incorporate easier tasks into your routine. For instance; park a little further from your door or opt to take the stairs. Every little bit helps. 

See How a Local Physical Therapist Can Help

To help you develop healthy exercise habits in proper form, visit your premier physical therapist. Not only will these exercises improve your health but reduce your resting heart rate too. A resting heart rate anywhere from 60 to 100 is healthy. Your premier physical therapist will walk you through the best exercises to help you lower that resting heart rate and develop strength.

As you implement a few new healthy habits to protect your heart, schedule an appointment with North Platte Physical Therapy. We’ll help you develop good habits and ensure you are taking some of the proper protocols required for improved health. Contact us today to see what we can do for you during this National Heart Health Month. 
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When Physical Therapy in Casper, WY Can Be Used for Scoliosis

February 20, 2019

When Physical Therapy in Casper, WY Can Be Used for Scoliosis
Nearly six million Americans live with scoliosis, which is a condition that affects the curve of one’s spine. While it is commonly noticed quickly in children and teenagers, adults can develop scoliosis too. Scoliosis can be painful if left untreated, making it imperative to meet with a doctor to get diagnosed. Along with your doctor’s scoliosis treatment plan, take advantage of premier physical therapy in Casper, WY for relief. 

What is Scoliosis?

The spine has a natural slight s-curvature shape. Those who are diagnosed with scoliosis have an unusual curvature of the spine. A person can have an intense inward curve, known as lordosis, or an outward curve, called kyphosis. Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves severely to the right or left. In addition to a noticeable bend in the spine, those with scoliosis have shoulders that are not even, and the hips are not either. In fact, some with scoliosis have a visible shift to one side of the other. Long term, scoliosis can lead to back pain and internal issues with the lungs, heart, and more. 

How is it Diagnosed?

Scoliosis is caused by genetics, neuromuscular issues, or spine injuries. Younger children can have their spine reviewed during a routine doctor’s appointment. Parents that notice some of the top tell-tale signs can schedule one, too. In many cases, the curve is visible on the outside of the body. A doctor may have a person bend at a 90-degree angle to have the best view of the spine. But doctors can take an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to confirm findings.  

Treatment Options

Those with scoliosis have treatment options for relief. In minor cases, a doctor may monitor the situation over time without treatment at all. Adults with scoliosis can wear special braces throughout the day that help bring the curve back to its natural shape. In severe cases, surgery can be performed. To help keep your treatment plan minimal, be sure you understand the importance of early detection. Your doctor will continue you throughout the process. 

Incorporating Physical Therapy

People with only a slight unusual curvature of the spine can take advantage of treatment from a local physical therapist. They will come up with a full plan of exercises to aid in your treatment. Some of these exercises include: 

Strength training: Increase your strength through specific practices
Posture techniques: Your physical therapist will provide you with posture tips to try. 

No matter what age, a go-to quality physical therapist will help provide a plan to recovery. 

When it comes to back pain and other issues, North Platte Physical Therapy’s talented team will help you throughout your recovery. We offer a wide variety of service to help you or your child as they combat this condition. Ready to get started? You can contact us today! We look forward to seeing you soon to help you or your child on track for a successful recovery. Scoliosis is nothing to be messed with. If you think you or your child has scoliosis, see a doctor and work with as soon as possible to correct the problem. 
 
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