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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


Winter is coming - make sure your body is ready!


Winter is coming - make sure your body is ready!
If you’re one of those stiff, sore individuals who find yourself getting stiffer and stiffer towards winter, as well as the standard adjustments for weather and chill, physical therapy can relieve the pains of stiff muscles and joints, to keep you out of bed and out of pain.

Pain can be minimized with the help of some treatments like exercising often, drinking plenty of water, wearing thermal clothes and attending physical therapy. Such a move keeps your body warm and does not tighten up your muscles.

Non-specific problems like swollen joints and cramps can worsen in winter because cold cuts off blood supply to muscle and nerve systems in the joints. This is an easy exercise for physical therapists to recommend individualised stretching and muscle heating or massages for such pains, as movement – stretching the limbs and pressing tissues – can relieve the tension.

Stretching should be part of any behaviour change programme aimed at alleviating and avoiding some of the soreness that we suffer in winter. So, for instance, stretch hamstring or shoulder, which will make you flexible and not be stiff when it’s cold outside. You can learn from your physical therapist which stretches to do, and how often.

The more personalized it is, based on your goals and situation, the more successful your program will be. Your physical therapist will create your programme specifically for you, based on your unique body, including the areas where you’re at most risk of aches and pains in the colder, dryer months of winter. Let North Platte Physical Therapy help you take care of your body this winter!

There’s also physical therapy for aching muscles during the winter months, and tailored exercises designed to increase flexibility, strength and blood flow, and prevent injury by improving joint stability.

An individualised workout plan of strength, balance and cardiovascular conditioning takes the place of an injury to prevent muscle damage in its tracks. Every other day, at the end of a dark winter, there’s an appointment for physical-therapy, a sign of spring.

After it snows, just imagine having to live with this pain until spring or maybe until next winter. Suppose you had a plan that would make you less sore and have more of a life (being able to hike, swim, play with the kids, etc) during the cold months. That plan you’d embrace, right?
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Benefits of North Platte Physical Therapy for Post-Car Accident Rehabilitation


Benefits of North Platte Physical Therapy for Post-Car Accident Rehabilitation
The repercussions of being in a motor vehicle crash can change one’s life forever; the wounds linger long after the bandages disappear. If immediate physical therapy is not acquired following the auto accident then health and life can diminish before one’s eyes. North Platte Physical therapy offers post-auto accident rehabilitation for those seeking help.

From minor strains and sprains to more severe fractures, car accident victims can raise a myriad of issues. It is in our best interests to employ physical therapy as early as possible, since early treatment can be extremely effective in accelerating the recovery process, as well as avoiding or diminishing long term complications that might otherwise endure. At North Platte Physical Therapy we specialise in diagnosis and treatment of injuries sustained in car accidents, treating the injuries that were suffered with the most effective way possible.

Each accident is different, and so are each of the individual injuries stemming from them. At North Platte, the therapists can tailor a personalised treatment plan that matches the needs of the patient, and because each patient receives such individualised attention, it can optimise rehabilitation to increase their healing and improve their overall functional mobility.

Loss of mobility and strength after a car crash is a very common story we hear here at North Platte Physical Therapy. Many patients have a need for various types of manual therapy, exercise, and stretching routines. We see patients on multiple occasions over weeks, months, and sometimes years as we make adjustments to their treatments and watch their progress.

North Platte Physical Therapy in WY provides patients with a modern facility that is equipped with the latest technological advances in exercise equipment and therapeutic devices. The clinic has state-of-the art equipment to facilitate a patient’s recovery process. These medical devices allow for a faster and more productive treatment compared to other forms of rehabilitation.

Many patients have posted testimonials claiming that they experienced positive results and were satisfied with their treatment at North Platte Physical Therapy. The testimonials include details on how the therapists work with each patient individually, how patients supported each other in the clinic, and how the therapists were attentive to their clients in a caring manner. These testimonials have helped to promote the clinic’s ability to assist patients in recovering from car accidents.

After a car accident, North Platte Physical Therapy in Nebraska doesn’t just help patients get back in the driver’s seat. Therapists continue to work with injured patients, providing them with the tools to maintain their health – flexibility, strength, and body awareness – and stop injuries before they start.

North Platte Physical Therapy provides individual rehabilitation following a car accident, which incorporates advanced equipment, personalized treatment and long-term health. It’s one of the best places to go following a car accident if you want to be cared for in a holistic manner. Get care at North Platte Physical Therapy if you or a loved one has been in a car accident.
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The Importance of Physical Therapy in Sports Injuries, and How Wyoming is Leading the way with North Platte Physical Therapy


The Importance of Physical Therapy in Sports Injuries, and How Wyoming is Leading the way with North Platte Physical Therapy
As the popularity of sports continues to grow, so does the risk of sports-related injuries. Athletes, both amateur and professional, often face the challenge of recovering from these injuries and returning to their respective sports. In the beautiful state of Wyoming, North Platte Physical Therapy, along with numerous other physical therapy clinics, plays a crucial role in helping athletes recover and regain their strength and mobility.

Sports injuries can range from minor sprains and strains to more severe injuries like fractures and torn ligaments. Regardless of the severity, physical therapy is often a key component of the rehabilitation process. It not only helps in the recovery from injuries but also plays a significant role in preventing future injuries.

Wyoming is home to various physical therapy clinics and facilities that specialize in sports injury rehabilitation, with North Platte Physical Therapy being a prominent figure in this space. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and staffed by highly skilled physical therapists who are dedicated to helping athletes recover and return to their sports as quickly and safely as possible.

Moreover, Wyoming's picturesque landscapes provide an ideal setting for outdoor recreational activities, which also means a higher risk of sports-related injuries. With the presence of North Platte Physical Therapy and other physical therapy facilities across the state, athletes and sports enthusiasts have access to the care and treatment they need to recover from their injuries.

North Platte Physical Therapy and other clinics in Wyoming are known for their emphasis on personalized and holistic care. Physical therapists in Wyoming take into account the specific needs and goals of each athlete, tailoring their treatment plans to address not only the physical aspect of the injury but also the mental and emotional aspects of rehabilitation.

Furthermore, Wyoming is proactive in promoting injury prevention through physical therapy, with clinics like North Platte Physical Therapy offering injury prevention programs that focus on strengthening exercises, flexibility training, and education on proper body mechanics to reduce the risk of future injuries.

In conclusion, North Platte Physical Therapy and other physical therapy providers play a vital role in the recovery and rehabilitation of sports injuries in Wyoming. With its commitment to fostering both recovery and injury prevention, Wyoming continues to be at the forefront of sports injury rehabilitation, ensuring that athletes can pursue their passion for sports with confidence and resilience.
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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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