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

307-686-2569  Send Email Now Hiring Submit Paperwork

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

Meet the Staff

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
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

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
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

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
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

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
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

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

How to avoid injury during bad weather - from your Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist

November 25, 2019

How to avoid injury during bad weather - from your Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist
Snow has officially arrived, and with more snow/sleet sure to come shortly, it’s important to do your best to stay safe in the bad weather. But how can you stay safe, and avoid unnecessary injury? Snow, sleet, and ice come with a new set of problems and new ways that you can get injured and end up needing to see a primary care physician and ultimately physical therapist in Wyoming or Nebraska. 

The most common types of winter injuries include falling (on ice or snow), strain from snow shoveling, and ultimately injury during exercise while it’s cold out. However, there are a few things you can do to help avoid these common types of injuries. Let’s talk about falling first - the following won’t completely prevent you from falling and getting injured..but it’s a good start. 
  • Wear proper footwear, with proper traction
  • Slow down - there is no need to rush
  • Keep strides short, longer strides increase risk of fall
  • Don’t rush outside when completing chores - once again there is no rush
  • Never go outside without your cell phone 

It’s important to pay attention to how your body is feeling after the fall. You might not feel the fall immediately, but if you’ve taken a particularly hard fall we recommend you go see a doctor right away just in case. Falls can be extremely dangerous - tread lightly. 

Do you snow shovel regularly? Snow shoveling can cause injury, such as falling (as previously talked about) or even muscle strain. Here is how you can prevent uncomfortable and ultimately painful muscle strains: 
  • Take it slow and easy - trying to do too much too quickly can result in injury
  • Make sure you are wearing proper gear so you don’t slip and fall while shoveling snow
  • Stretch. This sounds odd, but be sure to stretch before going out to shovel snow. 

In terms of preventing injury from outside physical activity - this will just require you to be careful. Accidents happen, but how you respond to them will ultimately determine how you heal. If you are experiencing body aches and pains, also be sure to reach out to your primary care physician or our team. At North Platte Physical Therapy, we are here to help meet your needs. We serve the communities of Wyoming and Nebraska with 22 clinics offering a full range of physical therapy services. Contact us today for more information.
 
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What does back pain really mean?

November 20, 2019

What does back pain really mean?
Back pain can be difficult to diagnose on your own, which is why you certainly shouldn’t do it. In terms of determining when to visit a doctor, we recommend that you visit a doctor when your pain is so severe it impedes your daily activities, or when it’s been more than 3-5 days - particularly if you didn’t have any back pain related to physical exertion. Perhaps you’ve already scheduled an appointment with your Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist or doctor and you’re trying to figure out...what could the cause of my back pain be? What does this really mean for my overall health? Check out some of the causes of back pain, and what this can mean.

Discs (the soft tissue between your spinal joints): Sometimes back pain case me some issues with your spinal discs. This can manifest in the form of: 
  • Herniated/slipped: Means the discs have moved in some way - such as come out. Herniated discs will cause additional pain, as they can affect your nerves as well. 
  • Bulging: Bulging discs bulge similar to a herniated disc, but often times not as much.
  • Degenerative: This means the discs have begun to degenerate - so they might be shrinking or tearing. This often times happens with older age.

Additional issues that might be causing you back pain include: 
  • Cervical radiculopathy: Pinched nerve - may be caused by a herniated disc or bone spur. 
  • Spinal stenosis: Your spinal canal has narrowed.
  • Spondylolisthesis: One of the bones in the lower spine has slipped forward and out of place.

There are many more issues that can cause prolonged back pain, but those are just a few of the most common. It’s extremely important that you do not self-diagnose a back pain cause, and that you see a primary care doctor or physical therapist. Be sure to contact us or your primary care physician for assistance. If you are experiencing body aches and pains, also be sure to reach out to your primary care physician or our team. At North Platte Physical Therapy, we are here to help meet your needs. We serve the communities of Wyoming and Nebraska with 22 clinics offering a full range of physical therapy services. Contact us today for more information.
 
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How Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapy can help back pain

November 13, 2019

How Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapy can help back pain
Back pain can be a nuisance...but you might be wondering, why would I need to go to a Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist? You might be wondering if a physical therapist is work the cost. We certainly understand the hesitation, but we can promise there are substantial benefits to participating in physical therapy for your back pain.

The first thing you should know is that there are a few different types of physical therapy and all have their uses. Make sure you take time to understand each, and speak with your primary care physician as to what might be best for you. The first type of physical therapy is “passive” physical therapy. Passive physical therapy is something that is done to your body, versus your body exerting effort. When you think of “RICE” (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) this is a form of passive physical therapy. Other types of passive physical therapy includes TENS units, and iontophoresis.

Let’s do a quick definition check: 
TENS units: Electrical stimulation
Iontophoresis: Delivering steroids to the body through skin

The next type of physical therapy is “active” physical therapy - or physical therapy that involves your body exerting effort. This includes stretching, active exercises, and other movements that your physical therapist has assigned to you. Active physical therapy most commonly would be used when your body needs to be rehabilitated due to an injury versus when your body needs rest. When it comes to active physical therapy make sure you stay in contact with your primary care physician and physical therapist to avoid hurting yourself even further. 

Now, why is physical therapy helpful? Physical therapy is your key to strengthening your muscles - slowly, effectively, and safely. A typical healthy adult (with no injuries) doesn’t need physical therapy to help strengthen their muscles - but injuries is what can cause the problem When you are battling injuries, you’ll need to be careful to avoid causing further serious issues or strains - which is where physical therapy can assist.

It’s always worth speaking to your primary care physician if you think that you might need physical therapy...but it’s also worth talking to your primary care physician or physical therapist if you think you’d like to stop physical therapy. Participation in physical therapy can help you safely rehabilitate from an injury without risk of further injury. Remember...further injuries can make it even harder to recover.

If you are experiencing long-lasting back pain, be sure to reach out to your primary care physician or our team.  At North Platte Physical Therapy, we are here to help meet your needs. We serve the communities of Wyoming and Nebraska with 22 clinics offering a full range of physical therapy services. Contact us today for more information.
 
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Why aching pain can be a sign of something more serious, from your Wyoming physical therapist

November 5, 2019

Why aching pain can be a sign of something more serious, from your Wyoming physical therapist
Aches and pains can be just that...a pain. It’s estimated that 60-80 percent of adults will experience back pain sometime in their lives, and 20-70 percent of adults will experience neck pain. You may have noticed you are beginning to experience pain for longer than 24-48 hours...and sometimes that’s okay. Perhaps you’ve had a hard work, or are even recovering from a major injury/medical procedure. But here is when you should start to consider it might be something more serious. 

As you start to wonder if it can be a sign of something more serious, you should ask yourself the following questions: 
  • How long has the pain been going on?
  • Is there anything that makes the pain worse? Perhaps a movement or when you sit/lay down a certain way.
  • Do you have pain when walking? 
  • Is the pain associated with numbness or weakness? 
  • Are you having any trouble with walking? 

These are all questions that your doctor is likely to ask you, and it could be indicative of something more serious. As you start to answer these questions yourself, make sure you are mindful of the answer so you can discuss with your primary care physician. Here are the true signs you should begin to look out for, and when you should certainly seek medical attention: 
Sudden onset of pain: If you have sudden onset of pain whether that be in the back or neck, you should definitely seek medical attention. Particularly if this pain wakes you up at night, or is something that happens consistently. 
Numbness: Are you having bouts of numbness? This could signal issues with your nerves - make sure to call your doctor sooner rather than later to avoid more permanent and more serious damage.
Fever: Fevers are indication of infections, and infections can get serious if left untreated. 
Constant pain: Besides the fact that constant pain can be an annoyance, it can also affect your daily life and get worse over time.
Traumatic injury: If you’ve experienced a traumatic injury such as a bad fall, car accident, etc., it’s important to get treatment right after the event. If you’ve delayed this and are experiencing pain after the fact...get in to a doctor immediately.

If you are experiencing long-lasting  pain, be sure to reach out to your primary care physician or our team.  At North Platte Physical Therapy, we are here to help meet your needs. We serve the communities of Wyoming and Nebraska with 22 clinics offering a full range of physical therapy services. Contact us today for more information.
 
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Back pains and how to handle them, from your Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist

October 29, 2019

Back pains and how to handle them, from your Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapist
Are you suffering from back pains? Perhaps you don’t know where it’s stemming from, or how best to start to manage the pain? Don’t worry - your experts at North Platte Physical Therapy are here to help! From causes, to things you can begin doing at home we have some of our best tips straight from your favorite Wyoming/Nebraska physical therapists. Take a look at what we have to say, and if you think you might be experiencing a more serious problem...reach out. We are here to help you.

Symptoms
Let’s start with the basics. Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms? All of these are indicative of a back pain, or something deeper, but it’s important to note that these do not represent all symptoms you might be experiencing. Think of this as the starting point.
  • Pain that shoots down your leg
  • Muscle aches
  • Shooting/stabbing pain in any part of your back
  • Pain that increases with any physical labor/strain on your back
  • Pain that improves when you lay down
Causes
Most lower back pain results from an injury. However, there are some underlying causes that could be responsible for lower back pain, including: 
  • Cancer
  • Sciatica
  • Arthritis
  • Kidney infections
  • Ruptured/herniated discs
  • Infection
If you are having back pain for longer than two weeks, and it doesn’t improve with stretching, rest or compressions/ice. Be sure to see a primary care physician. In the meantime, we do recommend rest and relaxation. However, in this case rest just means lighter activity. Light stretching and even walking can sometimes help ease back pain, but be sure not to overdo it. When you are experiencing back pain, it is not the time to start a full exercise routine. For the first 24 hours apply ice, then for the 48+ hours apply heat to the affected area. 

If you are experiencing long-lasting back pain, be sure to reach our to your primary care physician or our team.  At North Platte Physical Therapy, we are here to help meet your needs. We serve the communities of Wyoming and Nebraska with 22 clinics offering a full range of physical therapy services. Contact us today for more information.


 
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