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

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

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

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

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

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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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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Ways Physical Therapy in Casper, WY Is Beneficial For Your Post-Cancer Treatment

January 23, 2019

Ways Physical Therapy in Casper, WY Is Beneficial For Your Post-Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment takes a toll on the body. To regain strength, one of the best ways a person can recover is using physical therapy in Casper, WY. There are a variety of areas that are worked to help get a person back to their full potential. Whether you or a loved one is finishing cancer treatment, use this guide to learn how local physical therapy can assist with treatment. 

What is Cancer? 

Sadly, each year nearly two million people are diagnosed with cancer. It is common in society but sometimes we don’t realize or understand what it is. Cancer is when abnormal cells grow in the body. They take over the healthy, normal cells, wreaking havoc in the body. In several types of cancer, the growth of these cells creates large lumps, known as tumors. Leukemia is a form of cancer that does not have tumors but rather bad cells in the blood. 

Stages of Cancer


There are four stages of cancer a person can experience. Stages one and two have a lower amount of bad cell-growth. Stage three and four are a higher spread of the cells. Chemotherapy is used to stop the expansion of these bad cells, as well as radiation. In other cases, a surgery can be performed to eliminate tumors. Depending on which stage of cancer a person has will determine the route for treatment. 

Types of Post-Treatment Physical Therapy


Once a person undergoes treatment, recovery is key. One of the go-to ways to recover successfully is to incorporate physical therapy. One of the best things about physical therapy is how customized it is. This is perfect as every individual situation is different. Top ways physical therapy is used includes: 
  • Movement: Physical therapy encourages movement and helps a person build strength and increase energy levels. Also, as a person may have spent several months not moving much at all, a physical therapist will help increase movement back to its original potential. 
  • Pain Management: The extent of the drugs and procedures used when treating cancer can be tough. A person may be in pain and unable to fully move like normal during this process. A physical therapist will address this for the future. 
  • Regain Balance: Cancer patients commonly have balance issues after treatment. A top way a physical therapist will assist with getting balance back. This is crucial for a person’s safety when walking, sitting, etc. 
  • Lymphedema: When it comes to lymphedema and using Casper physical therapy for management, a quality physical therapist knows best. 

Whether you or a loved one is being treated for cancer, North Platte Physical Therapy is your place to recover. Our team of dedicated and knowledgeable staff understands post-cancer treatment. We create customized physical therapy plans for recovery. Contact us today to find a location near you. We offer pool therapy, hot and cold treatment, manual therapy exercises, extension exercises, myofascial release techniques and much more to get you or your loved one back on their feet. As a person seeks ways to regain strength and momentum, our office will help. 
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Casper Physical Therapy Explains How Bumps and Bruises Are Formed

January 23, 2019

Casper Physical Therapy Explains How Bumps and Bruises Are Formed
With a simple brush against a sharp corner, or accidentally hitting your head, a bruise and/or bump can appear. People get bumps and bruises all the time, from simple accidents to more significant issues. But what are they, exactly? Bruises are ordinary and usual. Take time to learn about what they are and how Casper physical therapy can help with more massive accidents and issues. 

What is a Bruise? 


A bruise appears on a person who damages blood vessels or capillaries in an area. This is common when a person bumps a spot or sustains an injury. Once an area is affected and the blood vessels burst, small amounts of blood disperse in the area—causing what we know as a “bruise.” While people that have thinner skin are more likely to larger bruises, just because the surface is easier to damage, anyone can bruise. On average, a bruise will stay around for a couple of weeks at a time. As time passes by, the color of the bruise will change. In a week or two after an injury, the bruise will turn a shade of green. This is the body’s natural healing reaction with the breakdown of hemoglobin. 

What Causes a Bump? 


In addition to a bruise, after sustaining an injury, a bump may appear. When blood pools in an area due to an injury, it can cause a lump. For the most part, bumps are harmless. Whether it is you or your child that has a lump due to an injury, monitor the situation. If you or your child acts out of the ordinary, it could be a sign more treatment is needed. Watch out for blurry vision, headaches, unsureness or confusion, and more. 

Healing Time


A bruise can fully heal within a couple of weeks. It looks its  most intense a few days after an injury. From there, hemoglobin will kick in. During the recovery, it will turn a yellow-green color. This is a positive sign of healing and growth. 

Using Physical Therapy


When it comes to your health and wellbeing, don’t let pain and discomfort persist. Get help from a physical therapist to resolve issues. Local physical therapy is one of the best ways to treat injuries. When working with a top therapist, they will assess your pain situation and put you on a plan for a pain-free life. 

As you look for a premier physical therapist you can trust, North Platte Physical Therapy has you covered. Our experienced staff will walk you through your specific injury to ensure you heal properly and on time. Whether you bump or bruise your skin, your doctor and physical therapist will assess the quality of your damage. From there, your go-to physical therapist will create a recovery plan. This is ideal to help take a quick approach to injuries that lead to scarring and more. Get started and contact us today to see how we can help you!  We will be happy to help you walk through bruising and how to minimize symptoms.
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Top Reasons You Can Use Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY in the New Year

January 16, 2019

Top Reasons You Can Use Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY in the New Year
As you think about your New Year’s resolutions, did you know that physical therapy in Cheyenne, WY can help you achieve goals? By utilizing the expertise of a premier physical therapist, you can check things off your list, become more active, lose weight, be a better employee, reduce pain, and much more. Through these different tips, you can make 2019 your best year yet. 

Achieve Your Weight and Fitness Goals


Are you looking to lose the weight next year? Or become a better athlete? Start with a physical therapist. A top physical therapist does more than treat injuries. They will teach you a series of exercises that are tailored to your individual needs. After all, weight loss is not “one size fits all.” In addition to practicing diet and weight management, a physical therapist will teach you how to exercise for your body—providing a better quality of life. 

Be More Productive at Work


No matter if you have a desk job or a physical intensive one, physical therapy can make you a better employee. 
  • Desk jobs: For those that spend a majority of time at a desk, posture and ergonomics are key. Sitting in the proper position will help you reduce back problems and fatigue. When seated in the incorrect position for eight or more hours each day, you can do damage to your body. A physical therapist will help teach you form and best practices for the office. 
  • Physical work: People that are on their feet all day, whether it is a career in retail manual labor, will benefit from local physical therapy. They will walk you through tips for improved mobility and after consultations, help you develop skills to perform tasks more safely and efficiently. 

Eliminate Chronic Pain


More than 100 million Americans cope with chronic pain each year. Do you fall into this category? If you deal with chronic pain, do not put off healing yourself any longer. People think their chronic pain is normal and nothing can be done. Not true! By visiting with a physical therapist, they will develop a plan that is completely tailored to your pain or injury. Physical therapy is also a safer and healthier alternative to treating with addictive painkillers. Top physical therapists will continue to work with you to find the source of the problem so that you can be on the road to recovery. Chronic pain is also one of the factors that hinder people from achieving goals. Don’t let your pain stop you in 2019 and learn how physical therapy in Douglas, WY can be a part of your plan for better health. 

For all of your New Year’s resolutions, North Platte Physical Therapy is your go-to physical therapist. Our team of skilled staff members would love to meet with you to help you achieve your goals. From orthopedics, spine care, and work injuries, to women’s health, modalities, and sports medicine, we have a wide range of services. Everyone can benefit from physical therapy, even just for a better and productive day-to-day. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
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