North Platte Physical Therapy - Lovell

 
 

Easy, Flexible Scheduling with Same Day Services

The Lovell Clinic provides physical and occupational rehabilitation services including outpatient and inpatient care and services to the local public school. These therapeutic services include treatment of all age groups from infants to geriatric patients. We help restore the range-of-motion, strength, coordination, and functional mobility that allow our patients to improve the quality of their lives. Our goal is to provide instruction and appropriate exercise programs that allow people to return to the activities they enjoy. We offer same day scheduling to all patients and work to fit their busy life schedules.

Location Details


Address: 1115 Lane 12, Lovell, WY 82431
Hours: Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM
Fax: 307-548-5263
Ladell Merritt, DPT, SFMA

Clinic Supervisor


Ladell believes that the human body is designed to move and be active.  He enjoys helping people improve themselves to enjoy life to the fullest.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Creighton University 
  • Undergraduate Studies, Utah State University 

Certifications/Specialized Training:  

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • Trigger point dry needling, custom foot orthotics, manual therapy for back, neck, and shoulders, and vestibular rehabilitation
  • ErgoScience FCE Trained
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate
  • LSVT-BIG
  • CAFS

Professional Society Memberships:

  • APTA, Orthopedic and Sports Sections

Hometown: Star Valley, Wyoming

Family: Ladell and his wife have four children

Hobbies: Triathlons and competing in Ironman races

 
Trisha McArthur, DPT

Trisha enjoys being able to help people return to active, productive, and meaningful function so they are able to have a good quality of life after sustaining injury, surgery, or disease.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Northern Arizona University 
  • Master of Exercise Science and Nutrition, Colorado State University 
  • Bachelor of Exercise Science, University of Wyoming 

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • Certified Dry needling, manual therapy, ASTYM and sports medicine
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate
  • LSVT-BIG
  • CAFS
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine

Professional Society Memberships:

  • APTA

Hometown: Trisha was born in Lovell, Wyoming and ended up graduating high school in Douglas, Wyoming. She currently lives in Cowley, WY

Hobbies: Trisha enjoys the outdoors and likes hiking and camping. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends.

 
Brett Soloai, OTR/L, CHT

Brett is from New Zealand and became a US Citizen in 2010.  Brett strives to help his patients reach their maximum functional potential and restore the highest quality of life attainable.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy, The Central Institution of Technology

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Certified Hand Therapist

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT)

Community Involvement:

  • LDS Church

Hometown: Hamilton, New Zealand

Family: Wife Cathryn and 6 children. Jordan is married and living in Gillette, Wyoming, and working as a Physical Therapist.  Lauren is married and living in Houston, Texas.  Regan, Ashton, Kierstyn, and Gavin are living in Powell.

Hobbies: Racquetball, basketball, auto mechanics, outdoor activities, travel, and family

 
Olivia Borden, OTD, OTR/L

I enjoy my job as an OT because I am able to assist my patients in returning to their previous occupations. I'm highly motivated to help others reach their maximum independence and quality of life.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, Interdisciplinary Minor, in Aging, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 
  • Doctor of Occupational Therapy, University of Mary-Billings

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • LSVT-BIG
  • Advanced topics in examination, evaluation, and treatment of the shoulder
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Professional Society Memberships:

  • AOTA
  • WYOTA

Hometown: Zhukovka, Russia 

Family: Husband Ross and two pups

Hobbies: Camping, hiking, kayaking, gardening, crocheting, & baking

 
Sarah Trotter, PTA

I enjoy my job as a PTA helping people return to their previous function following injury or surgery.  I enjoy working in Rural Wyoming as we get to see a wide variety of patients in various settings including inpatient and outpatient.  I love the opportunity to educate patients through exercise and strengthening and see them progress and reach their goals.

Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, San Juan College Farmington, NM
  • Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Montana State University Bozeman, Montana

Certification/Specialized Training:

  • Rocktape Fascial Movement Taping

Community Involvement:

  • Conditioning coach for high school girls' soccer team, volunteer sports medicine team for middle school athletic activities

Hometown: Thompson Falls, Montana

Family: Husband Shane, stepson Jesse, and stepdaughter Gracie.

Hobbies: Roping, quilting, gardening, exercising, volleyball, and horseback riding

 
Emily Leonhardt, PTA

I used to go with my grandma to her many PT appointments, and she was a terrible, noncompliant patient (lovely lady otherwise). The therapists were always so kind & helped her tremendously despite her snarky attitude. It gave me my love for older, grumpier patients & helping them reach their goals.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology & Health Promotion, University of Wyoming 
  • Associate of Occupational Studies: Physical Therapist Assistant, Pima Medical Institute, Denver, CO

Certification/Specialized Training:

  • Functional Strengthening
  • Fall Prevention
  • LSVT-BIG
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine

Hometown: Bailey, CO

Family: Husband, Austin, son Calvin, & puppies Paxton, Maggie, & Sammy.

Hobbies: playing with her son, hiking/romping around in the mountains with friends & family, reading

 

Services Offered



Latest News & Info


Physical Therapy Services: Cerebrovascular Patient Goals


Physical Therapy Services: Cerebrovascular Patient Goals
Most people associate physical therapy with injuries. Patients are given a rehabilitation protocol to follow in order to return movement in various limbs, joints, or other range of motion expectations. While true, this extremely limits the capabilities proven to be effective for many physical therapists across the country. Beyond activity style injuries, physical therapy is often applied to those suffering from cancer, people with growth issues, and many more instances - including cerebrovascular patients. 

A cerebrovascular accident often occurs unexpectedly with varying degrees of impact and type. These events, commonly referred to as a stroke, are known to be debilitating and require almost immediate medical attention. When detected early, the patient's chance of survival with minimal impacts improves considerably. Due to the dangers of these cerebrovascular incidents, patients are often left with a need for physical therapy services in order to assist with their recovery.

Strength

Focusing on regaining strength throughout the body is important after suffering a stroke. Fortunately, each individual’s personal recovery plan of action will be set specific to their needs and goals. Instead of serving a one-size-fits-all approach to recovery, physical therapists create exercises and actions to best implement results.

Balance

Another area often impacted by a stroke involves balance. These characteristics can be especially important to address as it is a cornerstone of mobility. Creating a plan of action to improve or restore balance components is paramount on the road to recovery.

Coordination

Combining these feats of balance and strength focuses on coordination. Even simple movements often become complex depending on the severity of an individual’s cerebrovascular incident. Orchestrating an approach to encompass each of these needs is extremely helpful.

Education

Educating individuals and their immediate loved ones is also an important part of the physical therapy recovery process. Physical therapists often provide patients with activities which can be completed between visits in order to assist with the recovery process. Giving both the patient and their support group the tools to understand why the curated individualized approach is best for recovery and treatments remains a key goal to assist everyone involved.

Quality of Life

Ultimately, the goal for any physical therapy program is to improve an existing quality of life and this remains true for cerebrovascular patients. Depending on the severity of their episode, a personalized action plan will be implemented to provide patients with the best quality of life possible for their situation. 

If you or someone you know has sustained a cerebrovascular episode, suffers from chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
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Physical Therapy Services: Percussive Treatment Benefits


Physical Therapy Services: Percussive Treatment Benefits
The benefits of physical therapy are numerous, but an understanding of how each treatment program is specifically designed for the patient is one of its most special characteristics. The desired results are specifically targeted toward how an individual adapts to the therapy and ensures all are receiving their best treatment options. Focusing on specific movement patterns, many goals of physical therapy are associated with returning clients to their previous state prior to some type of injury, surgery, or other detrimental diagnosis. Fortunately, these targeted treatment plans are being designed to make the most out of each therapy session in order to help patients achieve their goals.

What is physical therapy? Unfortunately, many individuals don’t understand exactly the capabilities or reasoning behind seeking treatment but there are multiple benefits for patients with all kinds of ailments. The range of treatments also expands considerably depending on the type of injury or a patient’s condition with percussive therapy being one of the most popular options today. This treatment features many positives and should aid in pleasing a client base, especially for those where percussive therapy can assist recovery.

Muscle Strength

One of the most common applications of physical therapy revolves around injury treatment. This capability typically enhances muscular strength and percussive applications are one of the best methods of enhancing these conditions. Increasing blood flow into the muscle, percussive treatments help boost strength within certain areas of the body. 

Flexibility

The enhanced blood flow also aids with stretching muscle fibers and enhancing flexibility within a targeted area. Since each physical therapy treatment session is focused specifically on helping the individual, understanding how flexibility is enhanced through percussive therapy is important to aid patients as needed.

Recovery

Those who are undergoing some type of recovery may also benefit from percussive therapy, especially since it helps improve blood flow to the targeted area. By specifically focusing on the area in need of recovery, individuals can speed up their return to maneuverability at a targeted, healthy pace.

Pain Reduction

Another significant benefit of percussive therapy is an ability to reduce the pain associated with certain ailments. The repetitive motion and increased blood-oxygen levels helps reduce pain and any other inflammation within the treatment area. This focus on improving treatment not only boosts personal satisfaction, but it also assists in creating a well established foundation for any similar treatments in the future.

If you have suffered an injury or know someone who has chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Common Lower Back Injuries


Physical Therapy Services: Common Lower Back Injuries
There are numerous reasons why individuals elect to pursue physical therapy services, but one of the most common often involves some type of back injury. As a core component in the makeup of the human body, the back and spinal cord connect all limbs and are a major piece in coordinating movement. When any injury occurs in this area, there’s definitely going to be significant repercussions and a need for treatment to heal. Often these mending services require physical therapy to aid in dealing with any lingering issues and helping those impacted return to a pre-injured state.

Lower back pain is caused by a variety of different issues and understanding the cause can be especially helpful when seeking treatment. In the event pain is from one of the more common lower back injuries, then the likelihood physical therapy treatments will assist is going to be helpful. One of the best ideas associated with physical therapy is being able to receive a personalized plan of action to assist in the desired results for whatever the case may be, from returning mobility to pain reduction. Having this specified approach for each individual also allows for the recovery plan to be targeted and personalized to fit the needs of each patient.

Strains 

Injury strains in the lower back are one of the most common culprits for individuals requiring physical therapy. Typically these are the result of improper lifting techniques, trying to move too much weight, or twisting/turning when carrying some heavy object. The notice for these types of injuries is almost instant, but they also may arise over time after having moved in a certain way. 

Arthritis

Over time arthritis can occur in the joints and bones of humans and unfortunately, the lower back is no different. If the spine becomes inflamed then similar pain is going to arise from the impacted areas. While arthritis may be more common to the hands and feet, lower back arthritis is also a cause for chronic pain in many individuals.

Herniated Disk

There are many different causes for a herniated disk, but even sleeping in an improper position can lead to lower back pain. These issues cause pain and potentially swelling, causing those affected to seek treatment in order to alleviate some of the issues. Depending on the specific cause, a targeted physical therapy regimen could aid in providing some comfort.
Fracture

Lower back injuries causing a break in the bone are also common and can lead to a debilitating condition. If you’ve ever even strained the back, then you know any injury here comes with a constant reminder of the issue regardless of how you move. With a fracture, this is definitely the case and should be adhered to appropriately to help ease any issue and prevent further damage.

If you have suffered a lower back injury or know someone who has chronic pain in their joints, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Benefits for Osteoporosis


Physical Therapy Services: Benefits for Osteoporosis
Physical therapy services are beneficial for a variety of different ailments and used as recovery procedures to help individuals of all ages. These specific programs are typically formulated to fit the needs of each individual depending on their situation, age, and capabilities. Creating a personalized plan is important to ensure patients are getting the care they deserve to help their bodies and formulate as close to a full recovery as possible. As we age, these needs become even more specific and many are related to their timing - including osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a bone related disease which decreases density and increases the risk for a break or fracture in the event of any high impact. Most frequently, this occurs when older individuals take an unexpected fall and then realize they have broken a bone. While unfortunate, often these individuals aren’t even aware they may have this disease until it’s too late. Fortunately there are many benefits to undergoing a physical therapy plan for those who either already suffer from osteoporosis or fear they may be in danger, should they take an unexpected slip, trip, or fall.

Strength

A personalized physical therapy plan should be implemented to help strengthen the body . These exercises and plans help boost how a person’s body responds to the aging process and may assist in protecting them from suffering any injuries during some other impactful event. 

Balance

As individuals age their balance typically becomes more and more of an issue. Often, those who are elderly may be at risk more so than others of falling and physical therapy assists in maintaining balance. Depending on the individual, therapists will create a specialized plan of action to address any areas of concern. 

Mechanics

The physical mechanics of moving - walking, stairs, bending, lifting, etc. - are subject to vulnerability due to osteoporosis and a physical therapy regimen can help. Individuals who need assistance in creating or returning to their best bodily mechanics to an optimum performance level can benefit from taking part in a specialized physical therapy plan.

Pain Relief

Many individuals who suffer from osteoporosis also endure chronic pain, but starting a physical therapy plan will assist in eliminating this issue. Depending on the care being needed, a therapist may be able to service the individuals and help alleviate the constant pain that many deal with each and every day.

If you or someone you know may have osteoporosis, suffers from chronic pain, could use assistance with mobility issues, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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Physical Therapy Services: Five Helpful Rehabilitation Activities


Physical Therapy Services: Five Helpful Rehabilitation Activities
Physical therapy is useful in a variety of different scenarios to aid individuals of all ages in a range of situations. From those who have undergone certain surgeries to people attempting recovery after suffering an accident, there are numerous indications of implementing rehabilitation activities to achieve helpfulness. These characteristics also assist individuals across a range of abilities, from those who have suffered an injury to the elderly placed in long-term care facilities. Regardless of the reason, it seems almost everyone is able to achieve some benefit from participating in rehabilitation services. 

Helping reduce pain and manage movement, physical therapy covers a broad range of applications. Not only are there different reasons for administering these practices, but the benefits cover an entire range of different capabilities. Serving in the realm of rehabilitation, there are five areas where physical therapy is especially prevalent. These specifications not only apply to those attempting a recovery, but they can also benefit individuals who are aging and those who may need an area of focus to enhance their mobility.

Universal Conditioning

One area where rehabilitation services impact everyday life is when it comes to universal conditioning. Essentially, being able to implicate some style of daily walking and movement for individuals is especially beneficial. These characteristics not only help increase blood flow, but it also assists in improving joint flexibility and lung capacity for increased efforts as time passes.

Joint Range-of-Motion

Another common application for rehabilitation involves the ability to increase range of motion of any impacted joints. These practices help manage pain and allow for those affected to return movement patterns previously administered without any pain or restriction.

Targeted Strength

Certain exercises also allow for those in the midst of rehab to target areas needing increased strength. Muscle building activities centered around standing, walking, and other mobile activities assists in building upon a foundation for movement. These targeted strength ideas also allow for an additional focus on critical areas of need for those individuals being prescribed rehabilitation activities.

Balance and Coordination

Another critical realm of focus for all rehabilitation exercises revolves around balance and coordination. Being able to stabilize an individuals’ movements, helps them feel confident in their abilities and allows for an improved quality of life knowing they can be left to their own functional mobility.

Transitional Activity

In the event mobility becomes a significant issue, working on transitional activities is helpful. These options include a focus on being able to safely maneuver from one position to another, including: bed to a walker, chair to a walker, wheelchair to bed, seated to standing, etc. Focusing on these everyday movements helps individuals build the strength, confidence, and capability to safely execute each action.

If you or someone you know suffers from mobility issues, needs assistance with recovery, or is seeking services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the physical therapy experts at North Platte Physical Therapy, Monument Physical Therapy, Big Country Rehabilitation, and Bear Lodge Rehabilitation today. Offering 18 different locations across Wyoming and Nebraska, our professional staff are ready and willing to help administer and create a personalized plan of action specific to your needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Available for all of your physical therapy and related offerings, we look forward to meeting you and providing the type of service you can rely on to help improve your overall wellness very soon!
 
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