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North Platte Physical Therapy - Powell

 
 

Physical and Occupational Therapy are offered through Powell Valley Healthcare. These therapeutic services provided by our friendly staff include treatment to all age groups from infants to geriatric patients. We help restore the range-of-motion, strength, coordination and functional mobility that allows our patients to improve the quality of their lives through our experience and state of the art equipment. Our goal is to provide instruction and appropriate exercise programs that will 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: 469 Mountain View Street, Powell, WY 82435
Hours: Mon - Fri: 8AM - 5PM
Fax: 307-754-3792
John Asher, PT, OCS

Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, Partner, Clinic Supervisor


John is a partner at North Platte Physical Therapy and has been with the company since 1995.  John is from Honolulu, Hawaii, and has always enjoyed various sports, which is what led him into Physical Therapy.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of New Mexico

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
  • Certified Vestibular Specialist
  • Certified in Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Certified in Applied Functional Science (CAFS), Gray Institute
  • Certified in Graston IASTM Technique
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • SFMA Level 1 - Selective Functional Movement Assessment
  • Expertise in Kinesiotaping
  • Specialized training through the IAOM, including Lumbar Spine, Cervical Spine, Thoracic Spine, Knee, and Shoulder  
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Special Interests:

  • Vertigo and Vestibular Disorders
  • Ankle and Knee Rehabilitation
  • Spine Rehabilitation
  • Corrective Exercise Prescription

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association
  • Wyoming Physical Therapy Association

Community Involvement:

  • Instructor for Powell Valley Healthcare's CNA Program
  • Volunteer Therapist for Powell High School and Middle School Athletic sports medicine team

Hometown: Honolulu, Hawaii

Family: Wife: Julie; Son: Carson; Daughter: Lauren

Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and weight training

 
Troy Fulton, MS, PT

I love Physical Therapy because it gives me the opportunity to interact with a variety of people.  I think it is so rewarding to make a difference in someone's life by reducing their pain or helping them gain the strength or function to get back to enjoying life.

Education:

  • Master of Physical Therapy, University of South Dakota

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Blood Restriction
  • Certified Kinesiotaping
  • IASTM Rock Blading Certification
  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • Mulligan Concept ( Upper and Lower Quarters)
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling, Functional Capacity Evaluations, Employment Screens
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Ergo Science Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • ErgoScience FCE Trained
  • CAFS
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association
  • Wyoming Physical Therapy Association

Community Involvement:

Supporter of local high school and college sports

Hometown: Powell, Wyoming

Family: Sons: Nate, Noah, and Nic

Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, camping, and woodcarving

 
Gail Mills, PT

Physical Therapy is the perfect blend of my interest in science, medicine, and providing service to others. I enjoy working with a variety of ages of patients in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I love the personal element of PT as I have the opportunity to help patients restore function and facilitate a return to their desired lifestyle.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, University of North Dakota 

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Adult Bladder Control and Urinary Incontinence Certification, Male and Female 
  • Specialized Training in Dysfunction of the Pelvic Floor, including Pelvic Organ Prolapse, Pelvic Pain, and Postpartum Care
  • LSVT BIG Certification
  • IASTM Rock Blading Certification
  • Kinesiotaping Certification
  • SFMA Level 1 - Selective Functional Movement Assessment

Professional Society Memberships:

  • Wyoming Board of Physical Therapy

Community Involvement:

  • Volunteer Patient Advocate at Serenity Pregnancy Resource Center
  • Various volunteer church activities

Hometown: Hulett, Wyoming

Family: Husband Gary, daughter Nikki, and sons Gavin and Galen as well as 9 grandchildren

Hobbies: Camping, horseback riding, reading, crocheting, and visiting my children and grandchildren.

 
Kandice Lytton, DPT

As a physical therapist, I enjoy making a connection with my patients to learn more about what they want to achieve in therapy. Every patient is unique, and their rehabilitation should be, as well.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences, Rochester, Minnesota
  • Bachelor of Art, Biology, Carroll College, Helena, Montana

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Herman and Wallace Pelvic Floor Level 1
  • Herman and Wallace Athletes and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
  • Function and Dysfunction of the Pelvic Girdle and Pelvic Floor
  • Pelvic Pain – Female and Male
  • Pediatric Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Rehabilitation
  • Pregnancy and Postpartum Care
  • Functional Manual Therapy for the Pelvic Girdle

Professional Society Memberships:

  • Wyoming Board of Physical Therapy

Community Involvement:

  • Cub Scout Den Leader

Hometown: Sulphur Springs, Montana

Family: Children: Sam, Garret, Peter

Hobbies: Horseback riding/roping, baking, gardening, fishing/boating, hunting, reading, and sewing. n.

 
Brett Soloai, OTR/L, CHT

Brett is originally 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:

  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder
  • IAOM Elbow Course
  • Certified Hand Therapist
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • Mulligan Concept (Upper Quarter)
  • Donatelli Shoulder Evaluation and Treatment
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Kevin Wilkes: Online and Live Certificate

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Society of Hand Therapists 

Community Involvement:

  • LDS Church

Hometown: Hamilton, New Zealand

Family: Wife Cathryn and 6 children and many grandchildren

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

 
Kinsey Baxter, MOTR/L

Occupational therapy allows people to live their best, most independent life. I love that I get to walk that journey with my patients. Being an occupational therapist has been my lifelong dream, and I am so excited to share my joy in this work with Powell and my new patients of all ages.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health, University of Wyoming
  • Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, University of Wyoming

Certifications:

  • LSVT BIG

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Occupational Therapy Association

Hometown: Powell, Wyoming

Family: Married to Carter, my high school sweetheart, and happy to be living in Wyoming with our dogs, Flynn and Clyde.

Hobbies: I enjoy being outside doing anything, including running, hiking, skiing, and kayaking. I love spending time in the mountains with my husband, our dogs, and my friends.

 
Mary Dietz, PTA

I enjoy working in the Physical Therapy department because of the variety of people and injuries I encounter on a daily basis.  This is a very fulfilling job when I can help someone get back to the activities they enjoy.

Education:

  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, University of Montana 
  • Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapy Assistant, San Juan College, Farmington, NM

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Rocktape Fascial Movement Taping
  • Practical Blood Flow Restriction
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • LSVT BIG Certification

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association

Hometown: Powell, Wyoming

Family: Husband, Clay

Hobbies: Horseback riding, CrossFit, and quilting.

 
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
  • Functional Strength
  • Certified CPR instructor
  • CAFS

Community Involvement:

  • 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.

 

Services Offered


  •  Balance Rehab
  • Body Mechanics Training
  • Chronic Pain
  • Custom Foot Orthotics
  • Custom Splinting
  • Ergonomic & Worksite Evaluation
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations

  • Hand Therapy
  • Kinesio taping
  • Myofacial Techniques
  • Parkinson's Treatment LSVT Big
  • Pediatric Occupational Therapy
  • Pre/Post Surgical Rehab
  • Pre-Employment Screening
  • Stroke Rehabilitation
  • TMJ
  • Torticollis
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation
  • Women's Health
  • Work Hardening/Conditioning
  • Worksaver Certified Work Physicals
  • Wound Care

Latest News & Info


Physical Therapy Services: Modalities Beyond Massage


Physical Therapy Services: Modalities Beyond Massage
Depending on pain symptoms or injury type, there are often multiple treatment patterns which can be implemented to address the issue. Physical therapy allows for an abundance of measures to attack each problem area specifically with individualized applications, making it one of the most efficient and effective ways to rehabilitate the human body. Being able to address an injury through multiple treatment patterns also often allows patients to enjoy a quicker recovery and sustainability as they return to everyday activities. 

More than one in five Americans experiences chronic pain, making treatment for these issues a priority. While most individuals are familiar with massage, its usage and multiple benefits, there are also a variety of other options pain sufferers can implement to garner some relief. Seeking the help of a physical therapist is essential as they can develop a plan specifically to address the needs of each individual patient, helping those in need to regain control of their lives.

Hypervolt Percussion Therapy

The use of a Hypervolt device typically relates to muscle injuries and allows physical therapists to target a particular area and vibrate the muscles. This not only increases blood flow to the injured area, but it also allows for the muscles to expand naturally, helping alleviate pain or any other discomfort. 

Infrared Light Therapy

These devices utilize light to effectively treat areas with bad circulation, commonly occurring muscle spasms, or unusual inflammation. For those suffering discomfort who may be prone to pain through percussion therapy, the utilization of infrared light is certainly a useful alternative.

Kinesiotaping

It seems athletes have always used tape to help with support, prevent injuries, or assist when there is a sprain or strain potentially present. These taping methods have allowed for many athletes to continue playing and kinesiotaping is an evolution of this practice. This specialized adhesive not only offers support and protection for athletes, but it can also reduce swelling after repetitive use of a particular muscle or joint.

Electrical Nerve Stimulation

A tens unit is also useful for physical therapists as they utilize low voltage currents to aid in treating a variety of different ailments. Typically used for pain relief, the implementation of a tens unit allows the area of discomfort to be targeted for specific relief. Most commonly applied to back or knee pain, the tens unit is another useful tool for those who may be suffering from chronic or even short-term pain.

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: Most Common Treatment Areas for Pain


Physical Therapy Services: Most Common Treatment Areas for Pain
Physical therapy services can be beneficial for a variety of different individuals and reasons. While many people associate physical therapy with athletes and those who have undergone surgery due to illness or injury, there are actually many benefits for individuals from all walks of life at any age. The versatility and variety of services, combined with unique applications specifically designed for each patient allow for physical therapy to treat a huge range of conditions.

In a recent poll of 1,000 Americans, over half revealed having undergone some form of physical therapy treatment. These areas range from injury recovery to work related issues, but there are certain portions of the body which are more prevalent than most to receive care. For those seeking treatment due to mobility pain or other issues, these joints and other areas of the body are most likely the cause.

Knee Pain

One of the most common areas of pain which requires physical therapy is often associated with the knee. A key joint for mobility purposes, when pain or discomfort is prevalent it can be extremely detrimental to the suffering individual. Whether from injury, over-use, or any other factor, getting proper treatment which aids in a full recovery is essential.

Neck Pain

While knee pain is often the result of a mobility issue, people can encounter neck pain while not moving at all - sometimes even while sleeping. Have you ever woken with a sharp pain across your neck, shoulders, and/or upper back? This could be the result of a nerve issue which also may be treated with a proper physical therapy regimen.

Hip Pain

As individuals age, the prevalence of hip pain seems to rise. As a result, this area of the body has also become one of the most commonly associated treatment targets for physical therapy. Another mobility concern, hips not only provide transportational components, but they are also a foundational base of support for the human body.

Back Pain

Injured workers account for numerous individuals who routinely seek physical therapy treatment services and the most common is related to back issues. Lifting, bending, kneeling, and other movements commonly needed in a variety of different jobs can lead to back pain or discomfort. A proper physical therapy plan will not only target and alleviate the existing condition, but also provide support for a proper return to work plan in order to avoid any future injuries.

Shoulder Pain

Finally, the shoulder is another ball and socket joint (similar to the hip) which often requires treatment. This can also be due to an accident or injury, but many patients require shoulder treatment simply based on overuse. As the body ages, changes begin to occur causing more areas of concern and these complex joints are highlighted for potential issues as time passes.

If you or someone you know suffers from pain in these areas, needs extra assistance with mobility, or is seeking services for a preventative 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: Most Common Lower Back Pain Issues


Physical Therapy Services: Most Common Lower Back Pain Issues
Suffering from lower back pain can be excruciating for individuals, regardless of their age. While those who are younger or more athletic may recuperate at a faster pace, when pain is present, it can be extremely debilitating for all. Finding solutions to these issues and learning from its cause are both helpful measures for anyone currently suffering. In addition, seeking physical therapy assistance may not only improve your recovery timeline but it can also aid in avoiding any repeat occurrences.

Chronic and severe back pain is the leading cause of job-related disability in America. With so many days missed and employees leaving the workforce due to these issues, finding solutions while understanding causes with proper treatment patterns is essential. Physical therapy programs are individualized by design and while each situation is unique, there are common applications and workplace related assistance to help these individuals. Particularly through return-to-work style programs, those affected will have the resources available to combat back pain issues from any of these most common causes.

Strains/Sprains From Everyday Movements

A simple sneeze is often the thing which may just be the reason someone suffers a lower back injury. Any other quick or unexpected movements also have the ability to cause a strain or sprain in the lower back area. Lifting objects incorrectly, turning too quickly, sitting at a desk all day, there are multiple everyday occurrences which may be the culprit behind an individual routinely feeling discomfort or pain in their lower back.
Injury

Associated with each of those regular movements are also injuries which occur to individuals that cause issues. Falling down the steps or slipping on ice, being involved in a car wreck, or any other blunt force trauma all have the potential to result in back pain. Getting proper treatment for these issues, as soon as possible, is critical to avoid a chronic recurrence or any lingering suffering from these actions.

Sciatica/Nerve Problems

The sciatic nerve tends to appear and begin causing problems as individuals age. Along with this most commonly recognized nerve, plenty of others may become pinched in the lower back causing pain or discomfort. Chronic tingling sensations can also be bothersome for individuals and may be helped through a properly designed physical therapy regimen.
Posture

Unfortunately, an individual’s personal posture is often related to their lower back pain or issue. Physical therapists are able to assist individuals with their strength, balance, and coordination in order to help improve any of these noticeable issues. 

If you or someone you know needs treatment for lower back pain, suffers from chronic mobility issues, or may be seeking physical therapy services for another reason, then consider reaching out to the 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: 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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