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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

307-754-1235  Send Email Submit Paperwork
Address: 469 Mountain View Street, Powell, WY 82435
Hours: Mon - Fri: 8AM - 5PM
Fax: 307-754-3792

Meet the Staff

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 in Casper, WY Will Help You Overcome Lower Back Pain

January 9, 2019

Physical Therapy in Casper, WY Will Help You Overcome Lower Back Pain
If you are coping with lower back pain, it is essential to know you are not alone and there are resources to help. When you take advantage of premier physical therapy in Denver, you can make drastic improvements to your health and quality of life. Do not suffer from back pain any longer! Learn more about lower back pain and what you can do to for relief.

Lower Back Pain in America


According to the American Chiropractic Association’s back pain facts and statistics, more than 30 million Americans suffer from lower back pain. This causes people to have to take days off work, fight through pain throughout the day, limit activities, sacrifice time, and more. In addition, medical bills can add up if you are masking symptoms but not creating a quality plan for improvement. It is also reported that around 80 percent of Americans will experience lower back pain at some point in their lifetime. 

Causes and Symptoms


A variety of issues and conditions can cause lower back pain. When facing every day with these issues, it can become a challenge. Some of the top causes include: 
  • Improper lifting or movements that strain muscles
  • Health conditions such as arthritis, scoliosis, sciatica or osteoporosis 
  • A bulging disk or pinched nerve 
  • Stress fractures of the spine
  • Cancer and other illnesses

Those suffering from lower back pain experience: 
  • Shooting or radiating pain in the lower back that may even spread down one or both legs
  • Increase in pain during regular tasks
  • Muscle aches and pains in the lower back region
  • Bladder issues

Contacting a Doctor and Using Local Physical Therapy


If you are suffering any of the symptoms above, it is best to see a doctor and go-to physical therapist as soon as possible. Your doctor will help get treatment started to help you reduce the sharp or intense pains. You should especially see a doctor after a fall, have a drastic change in weight post-injury, numbness or tingling and more. From there, a local physical therapist will create a treatment plan. It is so beneficial to go to therapy to regain strength. Through your tailored plan, you will be able to ease, reduce, and eliminate issues. When it comes to different types of lower back pain in Cheyenne, WY physical therapy can relieve, options are vast. Even the smallest of injuries can cause inflammation and side effects that if gone without treatment, can result in long-term damage. Avoid this and make an appointment with a local physical therapist. 

Wondering who to see for your lower back pain? North Platte Physical Therapy is rural Wyoming and western Nebraska’s top physical therapist. Our team will assess your situation and help create a customized plan for relief. Do not suffer in silence any longer! We also offer services such as dry needling, spine care, sports medicine and more. Make a change and schedule your appointment for 2019. Contact us today to get started. Our team looks forward to serving you in the New Year.   
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Becoming Healthier in 2019 With Casper Physical Therapy

January 2, 2019

Becoming Healthier in 2019 With Casper Physical Therapy
The start of a new year is the perfect time to initiate goals to become healthier. Even if you are not looking to lose weight, adjusting your eating habits, exercising and using premier Casper physical therapy will make a difference. In your search to become a better you in 2019, use some of these tips to feel better in the new year. 

Common Aches and Pains with Adults


An average of 25 to 30 percent of adults copes with chronic pain, which occurs for a variety of reasons. Some pain stems from health conditions while others are due to injuries. Common aches and pains reported in adults include: 
  • Abdominal pain
  • Back pain from strains, bulging discs, etc. 
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Joint pain due to arthritis, inflammation or bursitis
  • Knee pain
  • Nerve damage
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Tennis elbow

Using Physical Therapy to Replace Medication


More than 80 percent of Americans use over-the-counter pain medications to treat aches and pains. For others, they are given prescriptions for opioids that can be highly addictive. In fact, more than three million people use them each year. Is there another way to treat pain? There is! Local physical therapy can help you resolve some of your aches and pains, rather than masking them. Top physical therapists will identify the source of your pain and create a customized plan. These can include: 
  • Aerobic exercises 
  • Dry needling
  • Flexibility exercises
  • Strength training
  • Stretching

Your initial visit will assess your issues. Your physical therapist will find the best exercises and treatments for you to find long-term solutions to pain. For many, quality physical therapy can help adults prevent costly surgeries that take time to recover. 

Learning Proper Form for Daily Tasks


Poor posture takes a toll on your body. When you are in ideal alignment, there is less stress on your muscles. When all is in line, you will have a better range of motion and less pain. But your form of activities is also essential. This can be anything from lifting boxes or sitting at a desk to moving items and exercise. A physical therapist will discuss with you what your day to day is like. From there, they will teach you how to handle your everyday tasks properly. 

Improving Mobility


Physical therapy is great for those looking to increase mobility. You can work with a physical therapist to create go-to exercises that you can do on your own time. This makes becoming more mobile a task easy to achieve on your terms. In the 10 surprising ways physical therapy can make your life better, you will find how beneficial it is to solve issues. 

As you work towards becoming a healthier you in 2019, North Platte Physical Therapy is here for you. Whether you are looking to resolve aches and pains, become more mobile or feel better, our team of talented physical therapists will work closely with you. You will find you will feel better, sleep through the night, and have more energy! What are you waiting for? Contact us today to schedule your initial appointment!
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Avoid These Top Winter Workplace Injuries Explained by Cheyenne, WY Physical Therapy

November 26, 2018

Avoid These Top Winter Workplace Injuries Explained by Cheyenne, WY Physical Therapy
Winter storms and inclement weather can creep up quickly in Wyoming and South Dakota. This can make workplace safety tricky, but with some advance notice, employees can stay safe. In addition, customers are able to stay safe, too. Make sure that this winter, you are sure your company makes workplace safety as a top priority. Not only will avoiding these mistakes explained by go-t Cheyenne, WY physical therapy keep your employees safe, but your customers too. 

Back Pain


After a major snowfall, businesses in Cheyenne, Wyoming must shovel sidewalks, parking lot, etc. within 24 hours of the event. For South Dakota, there are 72 hours. This ensures the safety of employees and customers making their way in and out of the building. However, those that shovel may not necessarily know best practices, which can lead to serious back issues. When shoveling, employees should be dressed appropriately for the elements. This includes durable, slip-resistant shoes. Next, just like with exercise, warm-up exercises will help prep the mind and body. Once actually lifting snow, lift with the legs and not the back. 

Slips, Trips, and Falls


You probably are aware that slips, trips, and fall are three of the most common injuries during the winter. These can lead to some pretty long-term injuries. To help, prepare for an ice event by salting sidewalks. Add anti-slip mats in doorways for guests and employees to wipe their shoes off as they enter and exit. For shoes, they play a crucial role in workplace safety. Anti-slip shoes provide extra protection from snow, ice, and water that seems impossible to keep dry. 

Work Vehicle Accidents


Many professions have drivers on the road. Those sitting in the driver’s seat should keep a couple car-lengths difference between them and the card in front of them. This allows ample time if an abrupt stop is needed. Anti-slip shoes are also ideal for drivers as wet shoes can become slippery on the gas or brake pedal. When becoming involved in an accident, a person may experience whiplash or other neck injuries, as well as back injuries. It is important to know what to do after a work injury explained by Physical therapy in Wheatland, WY. Follow the instructions from your doctor, then work with a local, premier physical therapist to help you get back to your normal self!

When it comes to workplace safety, take everything seriously! If you look at the United States’ United States Department of Labor’s commonly used statistics, you will find an in-depth look into workplace injuries. This is where North Platte Physical Therapy will help. As your go-to physical therapy office in the area, we will give you quality care to help you or your employees get back in no time. To get started, contact North Platte Physical Therapy to find the nearest location to you. With nearly 20 locations, find the North Plat has a team near you to help you and your employees avoid winter dangers while working in the snow.
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Recover from Ankle Sprains Faster with Casper Physical Therapy

December 19, 2018

Recover from Ankle Sprains Faster with Casper Physical Therapy
The dreaded ankle sprain! Ankle sprains can happen in an instant, leaving you in a decent amount of pain. It can also be a nuisance if you are not able to put weight on the foot. This is where Casper physical therapy is here to help! A local physical therapist can help you expedite your recovery and get you back on your feet. 

Immediately After Injury


The first few minutes after spraining an ankle are crucial to a speedy recovery. When an ankle is sprained, it is because the ligaments have been stretched in an abnormal way. When those ligaments stretch or even tear, it can be quite painful. They are common when falling or if the ankle is twisted in a different direction. Upon suspecting you have sprained your ankle, proactive the “R.I.C.E.” method. RICE, which stands for “Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevate” are four steps to help you recover more quickly. Avoid putting any weight on the food and surround it with ice packs, frozen vegetables or anything similar that you have in 15 to 20 minute increments. This will reduce swelling. Compression is great to help reduce the area from overly adding inflammation. And last is elevate. When you sit with your foot elevated, you will keep blood from flowing in the area hence reducing any added swelling. 

Physical Therapy


Did you know that a premier physical therapist can help speed up your recovery time? Plus, when you do not recover property, it can lead you to many problems down the road. It is best to contact a top physical therapist within three days of the injury. They will help you create a plan custom to your injury for a quick and speedy recovery. These are exercises you can do in the comfort of your home and will greatly increase quality and strength in the area. From working on your range of motion to stretches, they will have you covered. 

Avoiding a Re-Injury


When it comes to sprains, the National Institutes of Health’s “Ankle sprain: pathophysiology, predisposing factors, and management strategies,” three-quarters of ankle sprains lead to re-injury or generalized chronic pain. Ensuring you handle your recovery and post recovery properly is key. This could help reduce that 75 percent, including your injury. A few other tips to avoid injuries include: 
  • Invest in a good pair of supportive shoes
  • Properly warm up before exercising
  • Stay active
  • Use a wrap if advised by a doctor or physical therapist
  • Be cautious when walking, running, and going up or down stairs
When you are recovering from your own ankle injury, North Platte Physical therapy will be there every step of the way. Providing you a complete roadmap to a speedy recovery, our go-to techniques will help you speed things up. As the go-to expert of physical therapy treatments for ankle sprains, we will help you get back on your feet. With several locations, you can find one that is close and convenient for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and be on the road for a quick recovery! 
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Cheyenne, WY Physical Therapy Care Tips for Osteoarthritis

December 12, 2018

Cheyenne, WY Physical Therapy Care Tips for Osteoarthritis
Did you know that more than 30 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis? While primarily found in senior citizens, the condition can also affect people as young as their 20s. Identifying top osteoarthritis symptoms is key, which is something local Cheyenne, WY physical therapy can help with. Learn more about this disease, how it is diagnosed, and incorporating premier physical therapy to manage pain. 

What is Osteoarthritis? 


Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of joint disease, mainly from wear and tear over the years. Often known as a degenerative disease, it leads to pain in joints in the hands, feet, hips, back and other joint areas. Once the cartilage that makes it easy to move begins to wear, it becomes painful. As time goes on, pieces of the bone or cartilage can break off, causing an inflammatory reaction. Because it is mainly due to use over the years, it is most common in those that are 65-years-old or older. It is most common in the hands but can form in a variety of the areas mentioned above. Common risk factors include: 
  • Genetics
  • Overuse
  • Age
  • Women
  • Overweight
  • Injuries

Signs and Symptoms


Those with osteoarthritis experience an aching of the joints that worsens when moved. On the flipside, when stationary, it can make the joints painful when moving again. Also, inflammation within the joints and cartilage may lead to visible swelling. Because of this pain, osteoarthritis can lead to stiffness, creating what seems like an endless cycle. As cartilage loss occurs, there may be an audible grinding during the movement of joints. Sufferers may also notice bone spurs, which are pieces of bone that have broken off. 

Diagnosing and Treatment


Upon noticing pain within joints, see a medical professional. They can take in your information on symptoms and identify the location of pain to do a routine exam and take X-rays. The X-ray and potential other tests such as an MRI or blood test will help the professional identify if there is damage. From there, the doctor will provide tips for treatment accordingly. This may include prescribing medication, go-to tips for losing weight, compresses, removing excess fluid, and in extreme cases, surgery. Physical therapy is also a great way to manage symptoms. 

Incorporating Quality Physical Therapy


It is best to continue moving when coping with osteoarthritis symptoms. While it may not seem like it, continuing to move can help build strength and inflammation. Your local physical therapist will identify a plan specific to your situation for relief and improvement. If your doctor has recommended surgery, learn about the benefits of exercise pre and post surgery with a physical therapist. 

As you look for ways to manage your osteoarthritis, North Platte Physical Therapy is your go-to practice. Our staff of experienced therapists are knowledgeable in osteoarthritic treatment that will provide you relief. You will learn ways to feel better and improve throughout your journey. To get started, contact us today! We will answer your questions and provide a tailored plan for management and improvement. 
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