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

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)

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

Dry Needling from your Physical Therapist in Cheyenne, WY Can Help with Headaches

February 13, 2019

Dry Needling from your Physical Therapist in Cheyenne, WY Can Help with Headaches
Having a headache can completely change your day. Light can make it difficult to look at computer screens drive. It can be hard to concentrate on even the smallest things when your head is just pounding. When severe, you may even feel nauseated. If you deal with headaches regularly, it is best to do something about it. Find ways to manage them including premier dry needling from your go-to physical therapist in Cheyenne, WY. 

Types of Headaches

For the 50 million that deal with headaches each year, it can be frustrating that not all are the same. Some are intense; others are short but painful. Others are an annoyance while some are downright debilitating. There are two categories of headaches that make up the various types: episodic and chronic. Episodic headaches are your occasional headaches that can last for hours. Chronic headaches are frequent. 

Cluster: This type of headache packs a punch. They tend to stay on one side of the face behind the eye, with a sharp, pounding pain. They occur for a set amount of time, go away, then return. 
Hormone: Women can experience headaches due to their menstrual cycle. They can start during ovulation and last throughout one’s period. 
Hypertension: Caused by high blood pressure, a hypertension headache can be dangerous. Those suffering may also have numbness, visual changes, nosebleeds, or even chest pain. It is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. 
Migraine: A migraine is a category of it's one. Throbbing pain takes over, in some cases, causing nausea or changes in vision. 
Physical: After an intense workout or being more active than usual, increased blood flow in the head creates pulsing pain.  
Post-injury: If you have experienced an injury to the head within the last year, it can lead to headaches that occur on and off. 
Sinus: Occurring due to mucus build-up, or because of a sinus infection, sinus headaches can make you feel stuffed up and miserable. 
Tension: A slight pain or pressure around the head that also causes pain from the shoulders and up. 

Seeking Relief

Finding relief for your headaches is essential. It can help you continue your daily activities pain-free. Some ways to feel better include: 

Over-the-counter pain medications and anti-inflammatories, or stronger medication prescribed by a physician 
Hot or cold therapy
Reducing or eliminating light 
Changes in diet

You can also review these 18 remedies to get rid of headaches naturally when searching for solutions for your pain. 

Dry Needling

Another great way to help with headaches is to go to a local physical therapist for dry needle therapy. Through using small, monofilament needles, a top physical therapist will insert them into the muscles. This helps to ease knots and tension, allowing the muscle to get back to its normal state. It is different than acupuncture. 

When it comes to receiving quality dry needling for your headaches and migraines, North Platte Physical Therapy offers dry needling to help. You don’t have to suffer—let our talented team help you reduce or eliminate your headaches! Contact us today!
 
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Using Physical Therapy in Casper, WY to Help with Endometriosis

February 6, 2019

Using Physical Therapy in Casper, WY to Help with Endometriosis
Did you know nearly one in ten women suffers from endometriosis? This common condition impacts everyday life, fertility, and much more. However, women should know they are not alone. While there is currently not a cure for endometriosis, there are treatments to ease symptoms and help available. It is essential for all women to educate themselves on endometriosis, talk to their doctors, and seek help from top physical therapy in Casper, WY to aid in relief. 

What is Endometriosis? 

The endometrium is a lining of tissue around a woman's uterus. The tissue will build up, and if an egg is not fertilized, the lining is one of the things shed during menstruation. For women with endometriosis, this tissue has moved to areas outside of the uterus. While mostly found around the pelvic area, the tissue can also move to various organs such as the ovaries, bladder, fallopian tubes, rectum, and more. In super rare cases, the lining can make its way to other areas of the body, such as the lungs.  

Symptoms

One of the main symptoms a woman with endometriosis experiences is pain. It is not necessarily one specific type of pain but can be throughout the body. In addition, there are other symptoms as well. 

Types of pain: Women with endometriosis experience deep and painful cramps during menstruation. Also, intercourse can be painful as well as bowel movements. The pain can be due to sensitivities to areas with the extra tissue being touched causing inflammation. 
Digestive issues: abdominal pain and cramping, nausea, vomiting, constipation, bleeding, and more. 
Spotting: Those with endometriosis find themselves bleeding small amounts in between menstrual cycles. 
Infertility: Some women with endometriosis experience difficulties having children. Some estimate this is due to damage caused by the addition lining.   

Treatments and Physical Therapy

Even though there is not a cure for endometriosis yet, there are ways women can reduce the pain. To reduce inflammation in the area, anti-inflammatory medications are used to treat endometriosis. Also, there are hormone-based treatments such as birth control or progestin-specific medication. Cases that are more severe may benefit from a laparoscopic procedure to remove the tissue. It can come back but can provide relief. For women struggling with infertility, becoming well-versed in endometriosis and infertility – the facts, can help couples find ways to become successful. Last, throughout a person’s struggle with endometriosis, premier physical therapy can provide relief. A physical therapist will provide exercises to strengthen the quality of the pelvic floor, reduce pain, and more. As a go-to for all women’s health issues, therapists will give additional best practices for endometriosis care. 

As you find ways to cope with endometriosis, North Platte Physical therapy will aid in care treatment. Our trained and experienced staff will work with your case as each person has a different experience. You do not have to suffer alone; North Platte is here to help. Contact us today to find a North Platte near you. We have several locations in Wyoming and Nebraska and hope to hear from you soon!
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Cheyenne WY Physical Therapy Helps You Run Your First 5K in 2019

February 1, 2019

Cheyenne WY Physical Therapy Helps You Run Your First 5K in 2019
Getting healthier is one of the top goals people make in the new year. For many, running a 5K, a five-kilometer or 3.1-mile race, is a challenge they are ready to take on. You could be interested in running as a new hobby or to help with fitness goals. If you would like to run your first marathon, it will take time and practice. With effort and training with local Cheyenne, WY physical therapy, you can be successful in running your first race. 

Choosing a Race

Once deciding to run a 5K, have fun searching for races in your area. When searching for upcoming 5Ks in Wyoming or Nebraska Runs, you can find tracks by terrain, included perks, and more. For beginners, choose courses that are flat and few twists and turns. 

How Long to Train

For those new to running, it can take an upwards of eight weeks to get ready for your first 5K. If you have some experience, you could master the race in five to six. A go-to way to get started is working with a friend, an app like Couch to 5K (C25K) or working with a local physical therapist.  

Schedule

When training for your 5K, you need to create a schedule and stick with it. It starts with a balance of walking, running and rest. Incorporating all three in your 5K training will help prepare you and avoid injuries. The running and walking will be combined into sessions a few days a week, followed by rest days. 

The best way to get started is in one-minute intervals for a half hour. You will walk for 45 seconds then run for 15. For best results, have your run/walk days to be every other day. By alternating run/rest days, you will keep up your momentum and regulate the body. The closer you get to your race, the more you can change the running and walking to 30 seconds vs. 15. You will pace yourself out to get to a point where you can run and walk for the entire half hour. 

Fueling Your Body

Providing your body with the right nutrients is crucial for a successful 5K. Adopt healthier eating habits and learning the proper balance of macronutrients. Macronutrients are carbs, protein and, fats. Carbs are especially crucial to running, but that doesn’t mean to load up on bread and pasta. Eat clean, “slow burning” carbs to help provide you energy for your workouts. 

Using North Platte Physical Therapy

One of the best things you can do when training for a 5K is to work with physical therapist. Your therapist will help you determine the best ways to train that work for you, including pace, form, nutrition, and overcoming challenges. In addition, your physical therapist will provide you with quality advice on avoiding injuries. 

As you prepare for your first 5K in 2019, North Platte Physical Therapy is your go-to for athletic training. We’ll help you accomplish your first successful race of the year! Contact us today to find a location near you.  
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