North Platte Physical Therapy - Wheatland

 
 

North Platte Physical Therapy has been serving Wheatland and Platte County for 30 years. It began as a contract with Platte County Memorial Hospital providing out-patient and in-patient services. We now continue to provide out-patient services at our clinic treating a variety of patients and provide contract services for home health of Platte County and the Platte County School District #1. We are a rural clinic and treat a wide range of patients. Being a clinic in a smaller area, we have the pleasure of getting to know our patients personally as well as professionally.

Our Wheatland Clinic provides a comprehensive out-patient facility, including a fitness center available to the general public. In addition to staffing the out-patient clinic, our therapists provide services in home care, and public schools. We also work with our local physicians providing athletic physicals and early intervention for our injured athletes.

Location Details

307-322-1878  Send Email Address: 1456 Paragon Way, Wheatland, WY 82201
Hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30AM - 5:00PM
Fax: 307-322-1879

Meet the Staff

Michael Utt, PT, DPT, OCS
Clinic Supervisor

When I was a junior in high school I decided on physical therapy as my future career. I initially chose PT because I thought it would be fun to work with athletes. As I went through school I realized that I enjoyed working with all types of individuals with a variety of orthopedic-related ailments. I lived the majority of my life in eastern North Dakota and am now here in Wyoming to explore what else is out here in the country and grow as an individual.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota
  • Bachelor of Science in General Studies with a Health Sub-Plan, University of North Dakota 

Certification/Specialized Training:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Orthopedic Certified Specialist
  • Vestibular Certification
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • A/B VR
  • Kinetacore Dry Needling-Level 1
  • Rock Taping Certification
  • Gray Institue, CAFS 
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate
  • Kinetacore Functional Dry Needling Level 2
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Professional Membership: 

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedic Section

Hometown: Casselton, ND

Hobbies: Basketball, golf, weightlifting, hiking, and the occasional jog.

 
Tommi VanRissegham, PTA

As a certified nursing assistant, I frequently witnessed the physical decline in the patients I provided care to and that inspired me to become a PTA, so I could help improve their quality of life. I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. I especially love stories about how my patients can now do things they weren't able to do before therapy.

Education:

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

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Musculoskeletal Management of the Pelvic Girdle
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
Hometown: Lingle, WY

Hobbies: Reading, traveling, and spending time with my husband and five grown children

 
Andrew Polk, PTA

I enjoy the physical therapy field because it allows me to apply my understanding of and fascination with the human body to improve the health and quality of life of people in the community around me. I find this to be one of the most rewarding responsibilities I could imagine.

Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapy Assistant, Iowa Western Community College

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • FMS Y-Balance Test
  • Cupping Therapy
  • Blood Flow Restriction
  • IAOM Elbow
  • IAOM Hand/Wrist
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Professional Society Membership: 

  • American Physical Therapy Association

Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, weight training, gardening, and cooking

Family: Wife, Raymi, and soon-expected daughter

 

Services Offered

Latest News & Info

Get An Early Start on New Year's Weight Loss with Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY

December 13, 2017

Get An Early Start on New Year's Weight Loss with Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY
One of the top resolutions for a new year is weight loss. Did you know by February, many individuals fall off track? One of the best weight loss strategies is to start early throughout the holiday season. This will help you gain momentum and start the new year strong. From top goal setting techniques and making better food strategies, to using premier physical therapy in Wheatland, WY and all our other locations, learn how you can get an early start on your goals.

Goal Setting Tips

Whether this is your first year of having a weight loss goal, or you are trying again, you must set realistic goals. When you set high goals that float out there, they may seem impossible to reach. This will reduce your probability to actually lose the weight and you’ll find yourself in the same place next December.
  • Determine a Healthy Amount to Lose: Ultimately, you should work with your doctor and local physical therapist on the right amount you need to lose for your health. One way to help is to calculate your body mass index (BMI). A normal BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9.  
  • Set Milestones: Chunk out your large overall goal into small milestones. On average, it is healthy for adults to lose one to two pounds per week without feeling completely restricted. Do not choose a plan with unrealistic milestones that are very restrictive. You need to have a plan that you can sustain long term.
  • Meal and Fitness Planning: To aid you with your health goals, create meal plans as well as an exercise road map. You are more likely to succeed when you have these plans in place. Be sure to add in contingency plans for pop up events.


Making Better Food Choices

The quality of the food you eat makes a difference with your weight loss goals. Each person is different, and will lose better based on their body. It is important for you to find the method that works best for you.

Ultimately, foods that are high in sugar or bad carbohydrates will slow or hinder your progress. You want to make your diet rich with protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. These foods don’t have to be boring! Create recipe swaps of your favorite foods with healthier alternatives, such as mashed cauliflower or broccoli tots. You need to enjoy the food you’re eating to continue with your success.

Working with a Physical Therapist

While the food choices you make are the most important part of your weight loss plan, you need to exercise. The American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.

Similar to food, you must activities that you enjoy. A great way to find what works for you is to work with a local physical therapist. In addition, they will help you perfect your form to avoid injury. Your physical therapist can also help you create go-to nutritional plans and strategies, allowing you to come to one place for your entire plan.

When it comes to your weight loss journey and physical therapy in WY, North Platte Physical Therapy will help you reach your goals. Our experienced staff will help you create a realistic food and exercise plan that works for you, and assist with exercises. You won’t be disappointed one year from now when we’ve help you meet your goals! Contact us today to get an early start.
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Physical Therapist in Wyoming Explains the Difference Between Stretching and Warming Up

March 22, 2017

Physical Therapist in Wyoming Explains the Difference Between Stretching and Warming Up
If you’re an active person, you’ve probably heard that you need to stretch and warm up before a workout, but do you know why? Many people assume that stretching and warming up are the same, but according to a physical therapist in Wyoming, they’re actually quite different. Here’s what you need to know about both of these activities:

Stretching

Stretching on a regular basis can help improve your flexibility and increase your range of motion. Additionally, stretching can relieve tension that you may be holding in your muscles and make you feel less stressed out. It can also help you keep your muscles loose so you don’t feel any aches or pains after a tough workout. If you are experiencing pain related to bad posture, stretching can also help you realign your body so you can correct your posture problems and prevent future pain.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that you stretch at least two times per week, and even more if you are elderly or exercising on a daily basis. It is best to think of stretching as something that should be part of your everyday life instead of limiting it to only before and after workouts. Learn how to stretch here.

Warming Up

Although many athletes often say they injured themselves because they forgot to stretch prior to a workout, they could be mistaken. Many injuries are actually caused by not properly warming up. What is warming up? Before engaging in any type of physical activity, you should get your body ready by starting off slow to gently engage each group of muscles and prepare them for a more strenuous workout. When you warm up, your heart rate starts to increase, which means your muscles will receive more nutrients and oxygen. Warming up also increases your body temperature, which leads to your muscles becoming more pliable, and thus lowering the risk of injury.

Although stretching and warming up both increase the flexibility of your muscles, warming up goes one step further by getting your whole body prepared for the workout. So, the next time you plan on working out, start off with low intensity cardio by speed walking or going for a slow jog. It’s best to warm up for about 10-15 minutes so your heart rate and temperature have enough time to increase and get your body ready for the work ahead. Getting into the habit of warming up before you exercise can keep you healthy and injury-free!

At North Platte Physical Therapy, we’re dedicated to helping clients prevent injuries as they enjoy their favorite physical activities. But accidents happen, so if you do injure yourself while exercising or because of an accident, contact North Platte Physical Therapy to learn more about how we can help you recover. Our staff is praised throughout the Wyoming, and Nebraska areas for our commitment to our clients. We can fulfill comprehensive physical therapy services, and would be happy to customize a treatment plan for your personal needs.
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How Children With Autism Benefit From Physical Therapy in Cheyenne WY

March 15, 2017

How Children With Autism Benefit From Physical Therapy in Cheyenne WY
When you think of physical therapy, images of older or injured adults recovering from surgery probably come to mind. However, physical therapy is not just for those who are aging or injured. In fact, special needs children such as those with autism can greatly benefit from regular physical therapy in Cheyenne WY. Here’s how:

Imitation Skills

Children who have autism often do not develop imitation skills on their own. What are imitation skills? When children are young, they often imitate what they see people around them doing. These skills will eventually help children socialize and learn to speak, so they are crucial to a child’s development. If your child has not mastered his imitation skills, a physical therapist can help. For example, trained physical therapists can use fun songs such as “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” to help children learn how to mimic movements. Learn more about imitation skills.

Motor Skills

Children with autism typically have limited motor skills, which makes it difficult for them to navigate through their daily lives. A physical therapist can work one-on-one with affected children to help them improve their balance and develop the muscle strength they need to perform daily activities. After attending regular physical therapy sessions, children with autism may see improvements in their ability to sit upright, walk, run, and jump without assistance.

Physical therapists can also help children learn how to use these motor skills to play on their own or with others. For example, therapists can work with kids to help them understand how to climb on a playground or kick a ball in a game of soccer. They can also help them improve their motor planning skills. For instance, kids with autism may be able to climb into a swing, but they still might not be able to figure out how to pump their legs to get the swing to move. In this case, a physical therapist can focus on motor planning to fine tune these skills, which will help the child become more socialized as he learns how to play with others.

Posture

If you’ve ever seen a physical therapist after an injury, you know the importance of good posture. Practicing good posture can prevent painful injuries caused by slouching your shoulders or hunching your back. Unfortunately, children with autism often suffer from generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), which can cause weak muscles, and therefore bad posture. A physical therapist can help by correcting any misalignments that are often found in the postures of children with autism and teaching them the importance of sitting up straight to elongate their spines.

At North Platte Physical Therapy, we’re dedicated to helping clients of all ages and abilities. If you’re curious about physical therapy, contact North Platte Physical Therapy to learn more about how we can help you and your children live healthier lives. Our staff is praised throughout the Wyoming and Nebraska areas for our commitment to our clients. We can fulfill comprehensive physical therapy services, and would be happy to customize a treatment plan for your personal needs.
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North Platte Physical Therapy Latest News & Updates Coming Soon!

North Platte Physical Therapy Latest News & Updates Coming Soon!
Check back soon to catch up on the latest news from NPPT!