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
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
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
- 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
- Ergonomic and Worksite Evaluation
- Fine Motor Dexterity
- Golf Swing Analysis
- Graston Techniques
- Hand Therapy
- Headache
- Kinesio taping
- Modalities
- Myofacial Techniques
- Neck Pain
- Neurological Services
- Orthopdedic Clinical Specialist, OCS
- Orthopedic Service
- Pediatric Therapy
- Pool Therapy
- Post Cancer Treatment
- Pre/Post Surgical Rehab
- Return to sport exercise programs
- Running Injuries
- Self-care skills
- SFMA - Selective Functional Movement Assesment
- Spine Care
- Sports Medicine
- Stroke Rehabiliation
- Tendonitis
- TMJ
- Torticollis
- Trigger Point Dry Needling
- Vestibular Rehabiliation
- Women's Health
- Work Hardening/Conditioning
- Work Injuries
- Wound Care
Latest News & Info
Lymphedema and Using Casper Physical Therapy for Management
August 10, 2016
- What is Lymphedema? Lymphedema is a condition where fluid collects in an area, typically in the arms and legs but has also been known in other areas as well. This condition leads to swelling in those areas. Â It is common in cancer patients who have had surgery to remove lymph nodes and a change in the lymph drainage. Web MD explains normal lymph nodes filters fluid that flows through them and it traps bacteria, viruses, foreign substances, etc. that are then destroyed by lymphocytes (special white blood cells). When this process is changed, that fluid builds up instead leading to lymphedema.
- Symptoms: There are various symptoms of Lymphedema depending on the stage. It is best to immediately work to relieve this condition as quickly as possible as the condition will continue to progress. The National Lymphedema Network (NLN) says the four various stages of this condition (zero to three) range from mild to severe. Symptoms are non-visible in this stage and most of the swelling occurs under the tissue and is not visible. In stage one, patients notice puffiness in an area, and impressions (or what is called “pittingâ€) on the skin happen more easily. Many also are not able to see veins in this stage, and relief often happens at night and then returns the next day, or when elevated. Symptoms are more obvious in stage two as the swelling is advanced and NLN explains the “pitting†turns more into a “spongy†consistency and elevation does not really help provide relief. In the last stage, the affected areas become very swollen. Due to this swelling, the skin can become dry and scaly. NLN also says skin infections are very common and there may also be fluid leakage.
- Causes: While lymphedema is common in cancer patients, the Mayo Clinic explains other reasons for this condition. First is any type of surgery that removes or injures lymph nodes. Second is radiation, which is common in cancer patients. Last is an infection of the lymph notes leading to a reduced or restricted flow of fluid. Those older in age, are overweight or obese or have rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis may be at a higher risk for lymphedema.
- Physical Therapy: Individuals suffering from lymphedema can find relief with physical therapy. This top method helps by utilizing massage treatments, passive and active range motions and pressure wrapping.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Casper Physical Therapy Solutions
July 6, 2016
- What is a Spinal Cord Injury? When a person damages their spinal cord, which is roughly 18 inches long and starts from the base of your brain and goes down to the middle of your back, there are a multitude of effects it can have. According to the Shepherd Center, these injuries can result in a loss in function, mobility and feeling. The nerves exit and enter at each level and they explain communicate with different areas of the body. Being that the spinal cord carries nerve impulses from the brain to the rest of the body, when damaged, you can see how it can greatly change someone’s life.
- Complete and Incomplete Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are categorized into “complete†and “incomplete.† The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains that a “complete†spinal cord injury means your spinal cord is unable to send signals to anything below it usually resulting in paralysis. You may have total paralysis, known as tetraplegia, or partial paralysis called paraplegia, which usually affects the lower part of the body. For those diagnosed with an “incomplete†injury, there is still some movement and sensation below leaving those with the ability to be able to move and function. Those with “incomplete†injuries are able to use various therapies, medicines, braces and other devices to rehabilitate. While you may not have a full recovery, there are aids and devices to help you live as comfortably as possible.
- Symptoms: Upon experiencing a potential spinal cord injury, there are several emergency signs and symptoms to take note of. If you experience any of these symptoms or are worried you have a spinal cord injury, it is best to contact your doctor immediately. The first is extreme back pain and pressure in your neck, head or back. Next, if you notice weakness or numbness in certain parts of you body, which could be a sign. You may also have loss of bladder or bowel control and have issues balancing and walking. Last, you may notice that you struggle with your breathing or have an injury that leaves your neck or back in an odd position. Â
Causes for Neck Pain and How Casper Physical Therapy Can Help
May 25, 2016
Neck pains can be caused for a variety of reasons but it isn’t something you have to accept. Casper physical therapy can help you relieve some of your chronic pain and help you create a plan to move forward.
Causes: Neck pain can arise for a variety of reasons. Some of the top reasons are because of muscle stains due to overuse or poor posture, worn joints due to age or osteoarthritis, nerve compression due to herniated disks or bone spurs in your vertebrae, injuries such as car accidents or motions that cause the head to quickly move backward and diseases. Being such an important part of your body, it can be painful and irritable when you have neck-related issues that affect your day-to-day life. Â Symptoms of neck pain can include a crick in your neck, chronic headaches, dizziness, degenerative disc or joint diseased, herniated, bulged or ruptured disks, cervical fusion, cervical laminectomies or disectomies and numbness or tingling in the arm.
What to Do on Your Own: Prior going to a physical therapist, or during treatment, there are many actions you can take to help ease some of your neck pain. One of the best things you can do is to stay hydrated. This will benefit you in a multitude of ways, but for your neck alone, will keep them hydrated. After all, did you know that the discs between your vertebrae need water? Spine Health explains that your vertebrae need water to keep disc height and spinal alignment, which removes pressure from your spine. They also say you can take topical or oral magnesium to help calm your muscles, avoid putting your head in a cradling position such as talking on the phone or having poor posture, icing your injuries to reduce swelling, try a water pillow that is soft and add swimming to your exercise routine.
How Physical Therapy Helps: A physical therapist is one of the best ways to help you find the source of your neck pain and make it more manageable. Exercises they can teach you can help reduce stiffness and strengthen the area or provide an array of services that help as well. To find the type of exercises that you need, Web MD says you can expect your therapist to learn about the range in motion around your neck, include shoulder blade pain and if it impacts your arms and fingers. It is best to leave this to professionals to ensure you do not use any motions that can further damage your body and cause your neck pain to increase.
When it comes to neck and spine injuries, North Platte is your go-to local physical therapist in Casper, WY to provide premier services that will get you feeling better and relieving some or all of your pain through treatments and exercises to restore the quality of your neck. Learn about our spine care services and how we can provide you with the care you need to restore your spine! Fill out our contact form to get started and to find a location near you.