North Platte Physical Therapy - Casper (East)
North Platte Physical Therapy (NPPT) has been an integral part of the Casper community since 1997, opening a second location in 2010 in order to provide more convenient therapy options for Casper and the surrounding areas.
NPPT offers therapy that includes a variety of treatment techniques that each patient needs to achieve success in his or her therapy time. Each patient is given the time needed in each therapy session to achieve the evidence based goals to improve his or her quality of life; no time limit is ever imposed on an individual patient.
The therapists at NPPT provide cost-effective, professional, fun, energetic care while the patient benefits from the team oriented, supportive, and knowledgeable staff. NPPT excels in therapy for sports injuries, work injuries, pre- and post-surgical rehabilitation, back pain, neck pain, headache and other pain management, as well as 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 have certifications including: Trigger Point Dry Needling, Aquatic Therapy, Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist, Certified Hand Therapist, Certified Kinesio Therapy, as well as Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialists.
At North Platte Physical Therapy – Casper,
“We will provide the highest quality physical and occupational therapy in a welcoming and positive environment, with a commitment to superior customer service.”
Location Details
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
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:
- A.S. in Life Science Pre-Physical Therapy from Casper College - 2004
- B.S. Health and Human Performance with emphasis in exercise science from University of Montana - 2006
- Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from University of Montana - 2009
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
- Blood Restriction
- IAOM Elbow Course
- 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
- Certified Kinesio Taping Practitioner (CKTP)
- Certified Level II Trigger Point Dry Needler
- Graston© Technique Certified
- Certified Cupping Therapist
- A/B VR
- ErgoScience FCE Trained
Working towards certifications as a:
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT)
Professional Society Memberships:
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) - Orthopedic section
Michael Utt, PT, DPT, OCS
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. In my short time here in Casper, I have grown to truly enjoy the community and I am excited to see more of what this city and area has to offer.
Education:
- B.S. in General Studies with a Health sub-plan from University of North Dakota – 2016
- Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from University of North Dakota – 2018
Certification/Specialized Training:
- Orthopedic Certified Specialist
- Blood Restriction
- Vestibular Certification
- Practical Blood Flow Restriction
- A/B VR
- Kinetacore Dry Needling-Level 1
- Rock Taping Certification
Professional Memberships:American Physical Therapy Association – Orthopedic section
Hometown: Casselton, ND
Hobbies: Basketball, golf, weightlifting, hiking and the occasional jog.
Alynna Woodbury, DPT, SFMA
I believe that physical therapy is a profession in which we get to spend quality time with our patients and treat them on a physical and emotional level. Other healthcare professionals only get to spend a limited amount of time with their patients and I enjoy being able 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 I make it my own goal to help them feel better.
Education:
- University of Mary – Doctorate of Physical Therapy
- University of Mary – Bachelor of Science – Exercise Science
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- Practical Blood Flow Restriction
- Certified Graston Technique Clinician
- Worksaver Certified Tester
- Certified Cupping Therapist
Continuing Education Training:
- Kinesiotaping KT1 & KT2
- Dry Needling
- Muscle Energy Technique
- Running mechanics and Injury
- Certificate of Training for Sole Supports Casting
- Diaphragm and Pelvic Floor Rehab
Professional Society Memberships:
- Member of APTA Orthopedic and Sports Sections
Sean Cometto, DPT, LAT, ATC
When I was a sophomore at Kelly Walsh High School I was introduced to the profession of physical therapy as a patient from a sports injury. I went to North Platte Physical Therapy where I learned about the profession and developed my passion about the how the human body moves. I decided to pursue the career of physical therapy and moved to North Dakota for college where I studied Athletic Training and Physical Therapy. While I was in Physical Therapy school, I worked at Sanford Health as an Athletic Trainer where I worked with a variety of different sports 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:
- University of Mary- Doctor of Physical Therapy- 2020
- University of Mary- Bachelor of Science- Athletic Training- 2017
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- Athletic Training Certified /Licensed
- Concussion Rehabilitation
- American Red Cross CPR and First Aide certified
- Pursuing Certification in Running Analysis and Rehabilitation
Continuing Education Training:
- SFMA Level 1
Professional Society Memberships:
- Member of American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)- Orthopedics section
- Member of National Athletic Training Association (NATA)
Hometown: Casper, Wyoming
Hometown:Running, Golf, Soccer, Hiking, and Anything Outdoors.
Ana Kroll, PTA
I became interested in this field of work when I was exposed to the various ways Physical Therapy can make a difference in a person’s life. I strive to make sure patients feel comfortable and understood. I am very passionate about helping others.
Education:
- 2018 Associates of Applied Science Physical Therapist Assistant; Laramie County Community College
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- Blood Restriction
- IAOM Elbow Course
- IAOM Wrist Course
- Aquatic Therapy Rehabilitation Institute Certified, 2014, 2015
- Pursuing certification in Functional Capacity Evaluations
- Pursuing certification in Hand Therapy
- IAOM Wrist and Hand Training
- Blood Flow Restriction Certified
- American Red Cross CPR Certified
- Lifeguard Certified
Professional Society Memberships:
- APTA
Hometown: Glenrock, Wyoming
Hobbies: Outdoor adventures, arts and crafts and antiques.
Ashton Stone, PTA
I grew up in the heartland of Texas but decided in high school that Casper Wyoming was my true home and I have loved it ever since. I have always been excited and ready to help any and all types of people; I also enjoy having the opportunity to make personal connections and form a bond with patients in a way other healthcare professions don’t have the privilege of doing. I first became interested in the field of physical therapy when I was introduced to how it can make a different in people’s lives and get them back to feeling 100%. Working as a licensed physical therapist assistant has given me the opportunity and ability to get people back to doing what they love in their own lives, while also getting to know them on a personal level and make lasting relationships.
Education:
- 2016- Associates of Applied Science Athletic Training; Casper College
- 2019- Associates of Applied Science Physical Therapy Assistant; Laramie County Community College
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- American Red Cross CPR certified
- Pursuing certification in Hand Therapy
- Pursuing certification in Running Analysis
Professional Society Memberships:
- American Physical Therapy Association
Hometown: Prosper, Texas
Hobbies: Running, hanging out with dogs, painting, and anything that involves the outdoors.
Nicole Cadwell, OTR/L
Over the past 18 years, she has worked in all areas of rehabilitation from the acute hospital setting to outpatient. She specialized and obtained certifications in neurological rehabilitation and later vision rehabilitation for patients with double vision or visual deficits from stroke or brain injury. She discovered her passion of upper extremity/hand rehabilitation many years ago when she was a travelling therapist in Vail, CO. Since then she has spent years studying with experts to provide the best evidence based practice to the clients she serves in Wyoming. Nicole loves spending time with her family, skiing, kayaking, and attending the arts and community events Natrona County has to offer.
Education:
- B.S. University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin in 2000
Certifications/Specialized Training:
- IAOM Wrist Course
- A Systematic Approach to Examination, Diagnosis and Manual Therapy of the Wrist Part 1
- NeuroIFRAH
- WorkSTEPS
- ErgoScience FCE Trained
Recognition/Awards:
- Quality Improvement and Education 2007 – Wyoming Medical Center
Professional Society Memberships:
- AOTA
- WYOTA
- NBCOT
Services Offered
- Arthritis Pain
- Back Pain
- Back School Presentations
- Balance and Vestibular Rehab
- Biofeedback
- Biomechanical Gait Analysis
- Body Mechanics Training
- Chronic Pain
- Cupping Therapy
- Custom Foot Orthotics
- Custom Splinting
- Fine Motor Dexterity
- Functional Capacity Evaluations
- Graston Techniques
- Hand Therapy
- Headache
- Kinesio taping
- Modalities
- Myofacial Techniques
- Neck Pain
- Neurological Services
- Orthotic Fabrication
- Orthopedic Service
- Pediatric Therapy
- Pool Therapy
- Post Cancer Treatment
- Pre/Post Surgical Rehab
- Pre-employment Screening
- Return to Work Screening
- Return to sport exercise programs
- Running Injuries
- Self-care skills
- Sensory Integration
- SFMA - Selective Functional Movement Assessment
- Spine Care
- Sports Medicine
- Stroke Rehabiliation
- Tendonitis
- TMJ
- Torticollis
- Trigger Point Dry Needling
- Vestibular Rehabiliation
- Women's Health
- Work Hardening/Conditioning
- Work Injuries
- Worksaver Certified Work Physicals
- Wound Care
Latest News & Info
The Benefits of Yoga After Receiving Physical Therapy Services
August 26, 2020
Improved Ability to Recover
There’s no guarantee that you’ll never get injured again after undergoing physical therapy sessions with your trusted team. However, there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood that your injury will require extensive physical therapy to fully recover. Yoga is one of them. When you incorporate yoga exercises into your routine, you’ll train your muscles to function properly, stay loose, and reduce your risk of injury in the first place. If you do get injured again, the injury will likely be less severe. Your muscles will be able to recover faster and more effectively.
Helps You Relieve Stress
When you get stressed, your muscles get tight. The tighter they are, the more restricted your range of motion will be. That restricted range of motion makes it easier for you to injure yourself and increases the likelihood of needing physical therapy in the future. Yoga helps keep your muscles loose and makes it easier for you to maintain the range of motion you regained after physical therapy. Over time, you might even see an improvement in the extent of your flexibility.
You’ll Build Functional Strength
When you work out at a gym, it’s normal to want to push yourself and try exercises that you might not be ready for. Not only does that increase your risk of injury, but it also doesn’t help you stay healthier. Functional strength or building strength that helps your body function at 100 percent is always better than building bulk. However, getting those results on traditional gym equipment can be tough. Yoga builds functional strength with nothing more than your bodyweight. You’ll get strong without adding bulk to your frame.
May Improve Your Sleep
Little aches and pains can get in the way of a good night’s sleep more than anything else. The more often they do, the harder it will be for you to function at work, in social engagements, and other events throughout your life. Yoga helps stretch your muscles and restores your posture to reduce those aches and pains. When you’re in less pain, you’ll be able to sleep better which can then impact your overall health and wellbeing.
Speak With Your Physical Therapist
If you’re about to wrap up physical therapy, the best thing you can do is continue to stay active. Ask your therapist for advice on the types of activities that will help you recover fully and avoid future injury. If you’re interested in yoga or any other activity, let them know about your interest so they can advise you further.
Common Signs of a Herniated Disc From Your Trusted Wyoming Physical Therapy Team
August 19, 2020
There’s Intense Pain When You Sit Down
Ordinary muscle strain is often alleviated by sitting down or resting. It gives your muscles a chance to relax and removes the tension from the strained area. When you have a herniated disc, sitting will often make the pain worse. Pay attention to the way you feel when you’re taking a break or working at a desk. If the pain gets noticeably worse when you’re sitting down, call your doctor as soon as possible.
The Pain Spreads Down Your Legs
One of the most common signs of a herniated disc is a condition called sciatica. This condition causes the pain you normally feel in your low back to run down the sciatic nerve which travels from your buttocks to your feet. When a disc ruptures or slips, it puts pressure on that nerve, resulting in pain throughout your lower back, buttocks, and legs. The pain is often slow to spread and doesn’t stick around for days on end. If you notice the pain shifting from your low back to your lower extremities when you perform certain activities, you may have a ruptured disc.
Feelings of Numbness
Believe it or not, ruptured or herniated discs don’t always cause sensations of pain. Sometimes, they cause parts of your body to feel numb or tingly. Think about the way your body feels when you’re moving around. If the pain is fairly consistent, you likely have a strained muscle. However, if the pain fades and leaves a feeling of numbness down one part of your body, you may have a herniated disc. If you notice this sensation, call your doctor immediately to discuss your treatment options.
Get Help Quickly
Coping with low back pain throughout the day is never pleasant. Luckily, there are things you can do to correct the issue and get your body back on track. The best place to start is by working with an experienced physical therapy team and letting them slowly make corrections to your muscles and spine. Those corrections will help you stave off back pain in the future so you can focus on maintaining your health. If you’re experiencing low back pain, don’t wait. Contact your nearest office and schedule a consultation with our team.
Why Active Recovery Days Are the Best Way to Avoid Needing Physical Therapy Services
August 13, 2020
What Active Recovery Means
Active recovery means you’re giving your body a break from the strenuous workouts you do on your normal gym days, but instead of sitting all day, you’re getting up and moving. Think of an active recovery day as an ultra-light workout day. If you normally run, go for a long and leisurely walk. If you lifted weights the day before, run through some yoga or stretch and walk the tension out.
The Benefits of Active Recovery Days
Now that you understand what active recovery is, you’re likely wondering why it’s so important. After all, you deserve to be able to rest and take a day off after working out incredibly hard. While you’re certainly entitled to periods of rest, active recovery days have a few compelling benefits.
Keeps Your Muscles Loose
If you’ve ever worked out incredibly hard only to find that you’re stiff the next morning, you know that keeping your muscles loose is a challenge. Not only do stiff muscles increase the pain you feel throughout the day, but they also put you at risk for injury when you get back into your workout routine. Active recovery days emphasize movement, helping to keep your muscles loose and get rid of those feelings of stiffness that keep you from being able to work out as hard as you’d like later in the week.
Gives You Time to Focus on Form
Active recovery doesn’t have to mean taking a break from your exercise routine. It just means going at it with a lot less intensity. You can use this to your advantage and focus on form instead of how hard you’re pushing yourself. By paying attention to your form and building muscle memory when you’re not pushing yourself, you’ll be able to maintain that form later without as much effort.
It’s Fun and Relaxing
Believe it or not, active recovery days can be fun and relaxing. They’re the perfect opportunity to try new exercises and experience new things without having to worry about missing out on your workout. Just remember to keep things fun and don’t put pressure on yourself to perform to a certain level.
Keep Your Body Moving
Movement is the best medicine and is the easiest way to keep your muscles loose and healthy. If you ever end up dealing with an injury or are worried about a persistent ache that won’t go away, reach out and schedule an appointment with our team.