North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy

 
 

Our goal at North Platte Physical Therapy - Gillette, WY is to have the most compassionate and well-trained staff in Campbell county. With 4 professionals on staff, we are able to specialize in a wide variety of treatment approaches and patient populations. And after providing services to Gillette, and surrounding areas for over 20 years. We've seen it all, treating everything from pediatrics to geriatrics. We make your Physical Therapy goals our goals.

In order to better serve our community, North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy offers a Bumps and Bruises program for our Sheriffs, Police, Fire Department, and youth athletes. Bumps and Bruises is designed to evaluate the patient's problem areas and get our athletes "back in the game." Our goal is to get the patient or first responder back to their job or sport. We also offer a variety of other services for Medicare patients, student-athletes, and others.

North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy, is dedicated to providing the best care, customer service, and insurance transparency to all of our patients. We want our patients to feel comfortable and understand their individual insurance benefits for Physical Therapy. As a courtesy, we do verify all patients' insurance and explain coverage. At North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy, we offer extended hours to meet all of our patients' needs. Walk-in appointments are always welcomed. Call 307-686-2569 today to schedule your appointment.

Location Details: 

North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy


North Platte Gillette Physical Therapy

Address: 620 4-J Court, Gillette, WY 82716

Hours: Monday -Friday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM (Closed for lunch 12PM - 1PM Daily)
Fax: 307-686-2615
Ben Mangus, DPT, OCS, WCC, CSCS, SFMA, CAFS, CKTP, AIB-VR

Clinic Supervisor


I knew from a young age that I wanted to help individuals rehab naturally and physical therapy was that perfect fit. I enjoy getting to know each patient I come in contact with and make it a priority to help them reach their goals.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, New York Institute of Technology
  • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Promotion, University of Wyoming

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association
  • Kinesio Taping Association International

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
  • IAOM Wrist Course
  • Vestibular Certification
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • A Systematic Approach to Examination, Diagnosis, and Manual Therapy of the Wrist Part 1
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
  • Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner 
  • Maitland: Essential Peripheral Seminar
  • Maitland: Essential Spinal Seminar
  • IAOM: Clinical Examination and Manual Therapy of the Acute Lumbar Spine and Sacroiliac Joint
  • IAOM: Diagnosis and Management of the Acute Lumbar and SI Joint
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • When the Feet Hit the Ground"¦Everything Changes
  • Long Island Orthotics and Prosthetics: Lower Extremity Prosthetic Gait Deviation
  • Selective Functional Movement Assessment Certified
  • Functional Dry Needling Level-1
  • Functional Dry Needling Level-2
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Certified in Applied Function Science
  • BikeFit The Foot/Pedal Interface
  • RockTape IASTM Practitioner
  • Maitland: Evidenced-Based Orthopedic Diagnostic Evaluation Seminar
  • Ergo Science FCE Certified
  • ErgoScience FCE Trained
  • Wound Care Certification from the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Hometown: Douglas, WY

Family: Parents: Chuck & Lisa Mangus, Sister: Jessica Mangus, Wife: Brooke, Puppy Dog: Bexley

Hobbies: Cycling, archery, fly fishing, and hunting.

 
Melissa Metcalf, DPT, OCS, SFMA, AIB-VR

I have always had a nurturing and caring spirit; gravitating towards jobs and activities where I could help others. I also love the human body, how it works, and is intricately put together.  When looking at possible career fields as a high school student, physical therapy seemed to be the perfect fit for me! Practicing in outpatient physical therapy has allowed me the joy of helping others reach their goals and dreams.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota
  • Bachelor of Science in Biology, Specific to Human Biology, Chadron State College

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • IAOM Wrist Course
  • Vestibular Certification
  • A Systematic Approach to Examination, Diagnosis, and Manual Therapy of the Wrist Part 1
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • SFMA Certified
  • CAPP-OB Trained through the APTA
  • Certified Work Saver (industrial testing)
  • Certified Trigger Point Dry Needling (TPN)
  • Graston Trained
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Specialized in Vertigo/Vestibular
  • Evaluation and Treatment of the Lumbar Spine and Sacroiliac: method and approach
  • Pre-placement screening
  • Effective Therapeutics of common Upper and Lower Extremity Conditions
  • Intro to Vestibular Rehab
  • Low Back Pain 101
  • Spinal and Peripheral Manual Therapy Techniques of the Lower Quarter
  • Cervical and Thoracic back rehab
  • Donatelli"s Pathophysiology and mechanics of the shoulder
  • Mechanics of the Lower Kinetic Chain
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Level 1
  • Cervical decision-making and manual Therapy Management and Treatment of TMJ and upper Cervical Spine
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Level 2
  • Muscle Energy Techniques for the Spine, Pelvic Girdle, and Ribs
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Level 3
  • Running Injuries
  • Introduction Level Functional Dry Needling
  • Advanced Level Functional Dry Needling
  • Graston Technique
  • Harnessing the Diaphragm/Pelvic Floor position for Rehab and Fitness
  • Spinning Beyond the Basics - Advanced Vestibular Rehab
  • The Foot and Ankle
  • Diagnosis and Management of Acute Lumbar and SI joint
  • SFMA Level 1
  • Cupping Therapy
  • Clinical Exam and Manual Therapy of the Elbow
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association 
  • Member of the Wyoming Chapter of APTA
  • Chief Delegate for Wyoming Chapter, APTA House of Delegates 2009-2012

Community Involvement:

  • Active participant at Living Rock Church, MS for Wyoming

Hometown: Cheyenne, Wyoming

Family: Rex and Barb (parents)

Hobbies: Triathlons, running half marathons, travel medical missions, reading

 
Deb Percifield, PTA, SFMA, AIB-VR

In 1999 my husband passed away unexpectedly and I was in need of a way to provide for myself and my children. I knew I was interested in a career in the medical field. At the end of my degree study at Gillette College, my advisor gave me an application for the PTA program at Central Wyoming Community College. The idea of being a PTA was exciting. I enjoy working with people and making a difference in a person's quality of life. 

Education:

  • Associate of Art- Northern Wyoming Community College
  • Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapy Assistant, Central Wyoming Community College

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • Vestibular Certification
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • Graston Trained
  • Specializes in Myofascial/Craniosacral Release
  • Cervical Disorders, Pediatrics, and Pool Therapy
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Pediatric Myofascial Release
  • Differential Diagnosis and Manual Therapy of the Hip
  • Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Foot and Ankle
  • Pilates Fundamentals and Techniques
  • Mobilization of the Nervous System
  • Biomechanics and Orthotics
  • Cervical and Thoracic Spine: A Maitland Approach
  • Spasticity Management: Focus on Rehabilitation
  • Manual Therapy for Physical Therapy Assistant
  • Low Back Pain 101
  • Spinal and Peripheral Therapy Techniques of the Lower Quarter
  • Cervical and Thoracic Back Rehab
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Donatelli's Pathophysiology and Mechanics of the Shoulder with Lab
  • Mechanics of the Lower Kinetic Chain
  • Fundamental and Advanced Kinesio Taping (KT1 and KT2)
  • Advanced Kinesio Taping (KT3)
  • Orthopedic Symposium
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • Exercise Experts for Aging Adults
  • Graston Technique
  • Clinical Examination and Manual Therapy of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervicothoracic Junction
  • Clinical Examination and Manual Therapy of the Lower Cervical Spine
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Acute Lumbar and SI Joint
  • SFMA
  • Cupping Therapy
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • Persistent Pain Management
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Community Involvement:

  • Active participant at St. Matthews Catholic Church
  • BETA Sigma Phi Sorority

Hometown: Gillette, Wyoming

Family: Bruce (husband), Wendi, Chris, and Amanda (children) and 6 grandchildren

Hobbies: Spending time with family, cooking, and baking

 
 


 
Brooke Mangus, PTA, SFMA, AIB-VR

 Physical therapy has been a huge influence on my life and well-being; in high school, I had two sports injuries. I joined this field of practice with the outlook to help others resume a quality of living desirable to each individual patient the same way my physical therapists did for me when I was a patient.

Education:

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

Certification/Specialized Training:

  • Clinical Examination and Manual Therapy of the Acute Lumbar Spine and Sacroiliac Joint
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • A Systematic Approach to Examination, Diagnosis, and Manual Therapy of the Wrist Part 1
  • IAOM Manual Therapy of the Acute Lumbar Spine and Sacroiliac Joint
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Kinesio Taping
  • Manual Therapy Joint Mobilizations for the PTA
  • When The Feet Hit The Ground... Everything Changes
  • Selective Functional Movement Assessment Certified
  • IAOM Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervicothoracic Junction
  • IAOM Manual Therapy of the Cervicothoracic Junction
  • Vestibular Certified
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Professional Memberships: Wyoming Board of Physical Therapy

Hometown: Casper, WY

Family: Husband, Ben, and Bexley Jean (fur baby)

Hobbies: Hunting, camping, cycling, skiing, and playing with my dog Bexley

 

 

Services Offered



Latest News & Info


Physical Therapy Services: Cerebrovascular Patient Goals


Physical Therapy Services: Cerebrovascular Patient Goals
Most people associate physical therapy with injuries. Patients are given a rehabilitation protocol to follow in order to return movement in various limbs, joints, or other range of motion expectations. While true, this extremely limits the capabilities proven to be effective for many physical therapists across the country. Beyond activity style injuries, physical therapy is often applied to those suffering from cancer, people with growth issues, and many more instances - including cerebrovascular patients. 

A cerebrovascular accident often occurs unexpectedly with varying degrees of impact and type. These events, commonly referred to as a stroke, are known to be debilitating and require almost immediate medical attention. When detected early, the patient's chance of survival with minimal impacts improves considerably. Due to the dangers of these cerebrovascular incidents, patients are often left with a need for physical therapy services in order to assist with their recovery.

Strength

Focusing on regaining strength throughout the body is important after suffering a stroke. Fortunately, each individual’s personal recovery plan of action will be set specific to their needs and goals. Instead of serving a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery, physical therapists create exercises and actions to best implement results.

Balance

Another area often impacted by a stroke involves balance. These characteristics can be especially important to address as it is a cornerstone of mobility. Creating a plan of action to improve or restore balance components is paramount on the road to recovery.

Coordination

Combining these feats of balance and strength focuses on coordination. Even simple movements often become complex depending on the severity of an individual’s cerebrovascular incident. Orchestrating an approach to encompass each of these needs is extremely helpful.

Education

Educating individuals and their immediate loved ones is also an important part of the physical therapy recovery process. Physical therapists often provide patients with activities which can be completed between visits in order to assist with the recovery process. Giving both the patient and their support group the tools to understand why the curated individualized approach is best for recovery and treatments remains a key goal to assist everyone involved.

Quality of Life

Ultimately, the goal for any physical therapy program is to improve an existing quality of life and this remains true for cerebrovascular patients. Depending on the severity of their episode, a personalized action plan will be implemented to provide patients with the best quality of life possible for their situation. 

If you or someone you know has sustained a cerebrovascular episode, suffers from chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
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Physical Therapy Services: Percussive Treatment Benefits


Physical Therapy Services: Percussive Treatment Benefits
The benefits of physical therapy are numerous, but an understanding of how each treatment program is specifically designed for the patient is one of its most special characteristics. The desired results are specifically targeted toward how an individual adapts to the therapy and ensures all are receiving their best treatment options. Focusing on specific movement patterns, many goals of physical therapy are associated with returning clients to their previous state prior to some type of injury, surgery, or other detrimental diagnosis. Fortunately, these targeted treatment plans are being designed to make the most out of each therapy session in order to help patients achieve their goals.

What is physical therapy? Unfortunately, many individuals don’t understand exactly the capabilities or reasoning behind seeking treatment but there are multiple benefits for patients with all kinds of ailments. The range of treatments also expands considerably depending on the type of injury or a patient’s condition with percussive therapy being one of the most popular options today. This treatment features many positives and should aid in pleasing a client base, especially for those where percussive therapy can assist recovery.

Muscle Strength

One of the most common applications of physical therapy revolves around injury treatment. This capability typically enhances muscular strength and percussive applications are one of the best methods of enhancing these conditions. Increasing blood flow into the muscle, percussive treatments help boost strength within certain areas of the body. 

Flexibility

The enhanced blood flow also aids with stretching muscle fibers and enhancing flexibility within a targeted area. Since each physical therapy treatment session is focused specifically on helping the individual, understanding how flexibility is enhanced through percussive therapy is important to aid patients as needed.

Recovery

Those who are undergoing some type of recovery may also benefit from percussive therapy, especially since it helps improve blood flow to the targeted area. By specifically focusing on the area in need of recovery, individuals can speed up their return to maneuverability at a targeted, healthy pace.

Pain Reduction

Another significant benefit of percussive therapy is an ability to reduce the pain associated with certain ailments. The repetitive motion and increased blood-oxygen levels helps reduce pain and any other inflammation within the treatment area. This focus on improving treatment not only boosts personal satisfaction, but it also assists in creating a well established foundation for any similar treatments in the future.

If you have suffered an injury or know someone who has chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Common Lower Back Injuries


Physical Therapy Services: Common Lower Back Injuries
There are numerous reasons why individuals elect to pursue physical therapy services, but one of the most common often involves some type of back injury. As a core component in the makeup of the human body, the back and spinal cord connect all limbs and are a major piece in coordinating movement. When any injury occurs in this area, there’s definitely going to be significant repercussions and a need for treatment to heal. Often these mending services require physical therapy to aid in dealing with any lingering issues and helping those impacted return to a pre-injured state.

Lower back pain is caused by a variety of different issues and understanding the cause can be especially helpful when seeking treatment. In the event pain is from one of the more common lower back injuries, then the likelihood physical therapy treatments will assist is going to be helpful. One of the best ideas associated with physical therapy is being able to receive a personalized plan of action to assist in the desired results for whatever the case may be, from returning mobility to pain reduction. Having this specified approach for each individual also allows for the recovery plan to be targeted and personalized to fit the needs of each patient.

Strains 

Injury strains in the lower back are one of the most common culprits for individuals requiring physical therapy. Typically these are the result of improper lifting techniques, trying to move too much weight, or twisting/turning when carrying some heavy object. The notice for these types of injuries is almost instant, but they also may arise over time after having moved in a certain way. 

Arthritis

Over time arthritis can occur in the joints and bones of humans and unfortunately, the lower back is no different. If the spine becomes inflamed then similar pain is going to arise from the impacted areas. While arthritis may be more common to the hands and feet, lower back arthritis is also a cause for chronic pain in many individuals.

Herniated Disk

There are many different causes for a herniated disk, but even sleeping in an improper position can lead to lower back pain. These issues cause pain and potentially swelling, causing those affected to seek treatment in order to alleviate some of the issues. Depending on the specific cause, a targeted physical therapy regimen could aid in providing some comfort.
Fracture

Lower back injuries causing a break in the bone are also common and can lead to a debilitating condition. If you’ve ever even strained the back, then you know any injury here comes with a constant reminder of the issue regardless of how you move. With a fracture, this is definitely the case and should be adhered to appropriately to help ease any issue and prevent further damage.

If you have suffered a lower back injury or know someone who has chronic pain in their joints, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Benefits for Osteoporosis


Physical Therapy Services: Benefits for Osteoporosis
Physical therapy services are beneficial for a variety of different ailments and used as recovery procedures to help individuals of all ages. These specific programs are typically formulated to fit the needs of each individual depending on their situation, age, and capabilities. Creating a personalized plan is important to ensure patients are getting the care they deserve to help their bodies and formulate as close to a full recovery as possible. As we age, these needs become even more specific and many are related to their timing - including osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a bone related disease which decreases density and increases the risk for a break or fracture in the event of any high impact. Most frequently, this occurs when older individuals take an unexpected fall and then realize they have broken a bone. While unfortunate, often these individuals aren’t even aware they may have this disease until it’s too late. Fortunately there are many benefits to undergoing a physical therapy plan for those who either already suffer from osteoporosis or fear they may be in danger, should they take an unexpected slip, trip, or fall.

Strength

A personalized physical therapy plan should be implemented to help strengthen the body . These exercises and plans help boost how a person’s body responds to the aging process and may assist in protecting them from suffering any injuries during some other impactful event. 

Balance

As individuals age their balance typically becomes more and more of an issue. Often, those who are elderly may be at risk more so than others of falling and physical therapy assists in maintaining balance. Depending on the individual, therapists will create a specialized plan of action to address any areas of concern. 

Mechanics

The physical mechanics of moving - walking, stairs, bending, lifting, etc. - are subject to vulnerability due to osteoporosis and a physical therapy regimen can help. Individuals who need assistance in creating or returning to their best bodily mechanics to an optimum performance level can benefit from taking part in a specialized physical therapy plan.

Pain Relief

Many individuals who suffer from osteoporosis also endure chronic pain, but starting a physical therapy plan will assist in eliminating this issue. Depending on the care being needed, a therapist may be able to service the individuals and help alleviate the constant pain that many deal with each and every day.

If you or someone you know may have osteoporosis, suffers from chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Five Helpful Rehabilitation Activities


Physical Therapy Services: Five Helpful Rehabilitation Activities
Physical therapy is useful in a variety of different scenarios to aid individuals of all ages in a range of situations. From those who have undergone certain surgeries to people attempting recovery after suffering an accident, there are numerous indications of implementing rehabilitation activities to achieve helpfulness. These characteristics also assist individuals across a range of abilities, from those who have suffered an injury to the elderly placed in long-term care facilities. Regardless of the reason, it seems almost everyone is able to achieve some benefit from participating in rehabilitation services. 

Helping reduce pain and manage movement, physical therapy covers a broad range of applications. Not only are there different reasons for administering these practices, but the benefits cover an entire range of different capabilities. Serving in the realm of rehabilitation, there are five areas where physical therapy is especially prevalent. These specifications not only apply to those attempting a recovery, but they can also benefit individuals who are aging and those who may need an area of focus to enhance their mobility.

Universal Conditioning

One area where rehabilitation services impact everyday life is when it comes to universal conditioning. Essentially, being able to implicate some style of daily walking and movement for individuals is especially beneficial. These characteristics not only help increase blood flow, but it also assists in improving joint flexibility and lung capacity for increased efforts as time passes.

Joint Range-of-Motion

Another common application for rehabilitation involves the ability to increase range of motion of any impacted joints. These practices help manage pain and allow for those affected to return movement patterns previously administered without any pain or restriction.

Targeted Strength

Certain exercises also allow for those in the midst of rehab to target areas needing increased strength. Muscle building activities centered around standing, walking, and other mobile activities assists in building upon a foundation for movement. These targeted strength ideas also allow for an additional focus on critical areas of need for those individuals being prescribed rehabilitation activities.

Balance and Coordination

Another critical realm of focus for all rehabilitation exercises revolves around balance and coordination. Being able to stabilize an individuals’ movements, helps them feel confident in their abilities and allows for an improved quality of life knowing they can be left to their own functional mobility.

Transitional Activity

In the event mobility becomes a significant issue, working on transitional activities is helpful. These options include a focus on being able to safely maneuver from one position to another, including: bed to a walker, chair to a walker, wheelchair to bed, seated to standing, etc. Focusing on these everyday movements helps individuals build the strength, confidence, and capability to safely execute each action.

If you or someone you know suffers from mobility issues, needs assistance with recovery, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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