North Platte Physical Therapy - Casper (West)

 
 

The Casper West clinic has been serving the needs of the surrounding community since 2010.  This clinic along with our Casper East clinic continually strives to exceed the expectations of our patients.  Our clinics are patient-focused and allow our patients to collaborate with their therapist on the optimal care for each individual.  We provide this peak level of care in an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere.

We are dedicated to providing the best orthopedic care to central Wyoming. Our staff specializes in spine and extremities. We use multiple manual therapy and exercise treatment philosophies and techniques for treating back, muscle, joint, nerve and tendon disorders. North Platte Physical Therapy provides comprehensive physical and occupational therapy services to our orthopedic, pediatric, and geriatric patients. We have an excellent functional balance re-training program and fall prevention program. We also work with athletes and sports medicine patients.

Location Details

307-234-9067  Send Email
Address: 3831 Denis Drive #200, Casper, WY 82604
Hours: Mon - Fri 8AM - 5PM
Fax: 307-234-9074

Interested in scheduling at our East location? View Casper East Details

Meet the Staff

Matt Woodbury, DPT, OCS, SFMA

Clinic Supervisor

I have both a professional and personal passion for health. I will never stop learning about the complexities of the human body and the optimal ways to promote its function.  I want to remain active, enjoy life to the fullest, and help others also attain and maintain this freedom.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of Mary
  • Bachelor of Science in Human Performance and Fitness, North Dakota State University

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)
  • Certified Graston Technique Clinician
  • Worksaver Certified Tester
  • Certified Cupping Therapist
  • Vestibular Certification
  • Certification in Applied Functional Science, Gray Institute
  • Advanced Topics in the Examination, Evaluation, and Treatment of the Shoulder and Knee
  • IAOM Elbow Course
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Elbow
  • LSVT

Continuing Education Training:

  • Kinesio Taping KT1 & KT2
  • Dry Needling
  • Muscle Energy Technique
  • Running Mechanics and Injury
  • Sole Supports Orthotic Casting
  • Various Other Orthopedic Courses

Professional Society Memberships:

  • American Physical Therapy Association - Orthopedics and Sports

Hometown: West Fargo, North Dakota

Hobbies: Running, cycling, hanging out with family, listening to music, and watching movies

 
James Watson, DPT

As a Physical Therapist, I live for that moment when people’s eyes light up with hope because they can do what they couldn’t before. I love learning everyone’s unique story and helping them overcome their barriers in life. I am enjoying getting to better know the good people of Casper every day.

Education:

  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, Touro University Nevada
  • Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, Utah Valley University

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • LSVT BIG
  • Vestibular Rehabilitation Certificate (PESI)

Continuing Education:

  • Management of Lower Quadrant Pathology Course 1 (Folsom) 
  • Management of Lower Quadrant Pathology Course 2 (Folsom) 
  • Institute for Brain Potential Protecting Short Term Memory  

Hometown: Layton, Utah

Hobbies: Running, baking, woodworking, hiking and entertaining my daughters.

 
Jessica Engelhardt, PTA

Like many in my field, I first became interested in Physical Therapy after a sports-related injury in high school made me a patient myself. After earning my bachelor's degree, I moved on to a Physical Therapist Assistant program. I believe that Physical Therapy can truly change an individual's life for the better. I enjoy being around people every day and getting to know them. I am compassionate and want to help others achieve their goals. I grew up in Indiana and lived in Colorado for three years before moving to Casper. I am very excited to explore this new area and discover what the community has to offer!

Education:

  • Associate of Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Laramie County Community College 
  • Bachelor of Science in Movement and Sport Sciences, Purdue University

Certifications:

  • IAOM: Differential Diagnosis and Musculoskeletal Management of the Cervical Spine
  • American Heart Association Basic Life Support (CPR and AED)
  • LSVT
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Hometown:

  • Arcadia, Indiana

Hobbies:

  • Hiking, skiing, volleyball, and hanging out with friends and family watching movies

Tara Stadjuhar, PTA

My journey into Physical Therapy came from a love of sports and a fascination for how the body moves, functions, and heals. Being passionate about health and wellness, I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to optimal well-being. Witnessing the transformative impact of physical therapy firsthand is what fuels my love for this profession. I find immense joy in helping patients regain mobility, return to their favorite activities, and achieve their wellness goals.

Education:

  • Associates in Applied Science, Physical Therapist Assistant, Western Technical College, El Paso, TX
  • Bachelors of Community Health, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM

Certifications/Specialized Training:

  • LSVT BIG
  • Blood flow restriction training
  • American Heart Association Basic life support (CPR and AED)
  • Site coordinator of Clinical education (SCCE)
  • Diagnosis and Management of the Thoracic Spine

Continuing Education:

  • Kinesio tape
  • Strain counter strain

Professional Society Memberships:

  • APTA of Wyoming and New Mexico

Hometown: Las Cruces, New Mexico

Hobbies: Skiing, fly fishing, camping, woodworking, DIY projects, spending time with my family, hiking with my dogs.

 

Services Offered

Latest News & Info

Knee Anthroscopy Explained by Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY

November 7, 2018

Knee Anthroscopy Explained by Physical Therapy in Cheyenne, WY
For many knee injuries and problems, a knee anthroscopy is a great, non-invasive way to fix a problem. This minor procedure is gaining in popularity thanks to the latest advancements in surgical technology. Since it is easier on the body, recovery is expedited, helping you get back to work and activities quickly. Explore more about knee anthroscopy and using premier physical therapy in Cheyenne, WY to recover. 

What is a Knee Anthroscopy? 


A knee anthroscopy is a type of non-invasive surgical procedures to help relieve pain on and around the joint of the knee. The reason why it is called an “anthroscopy” is because a small camera, called an “anthroscope,” is placed into the knee after making a small incision. This is incision is just large enough to place a small camera through. From there, the surgeon can use special tools to go in and make various fixes to issues within the knee. It is also an excellent way to diagnose larger issues. The procedure itself is fairly quick and there are rarely common issues and complications. Knee anthroscopies are one of the top ways surgeons help those with knee issues thanks to their low risks and quick recovery time. 

Common Reasons for Procedure


From there, a surgeon can review the inside of the knee and look for all types of issues, including: 
  • ACL reconstruction
  • Bone fragments
  • Cartilage issues or transfers
  • Diagnosing larger issues such as arthritis
  • Fractures
  • Joint pain
  • Patella repair
  • Swelling
  • Torn ligaments or meniscus

When going in for anthroscopic knee surgery, your surgeon will help make you comfortable. Given the nature of the surgery, it may often be a simple outpatient procedure that does not require an overnight stay in the hospital. By not having to open the entire knee to operate, you will enjoy being able to get back to your day-to-day routine in no time. Because it does not have as much stress on the knee as traditional surgeries, it is one of the best ways to treat an issue. 

Using Quality Physical Therapy to Recover


Even though knee anthroscopy surgery is not as intense as a traditional open-knee procedure, it is best to work with a local physical therapist on your recovery and rehabilitation program. A physical therapist will create a customized plan specialized plan to help you regain proper movement. It is best to utilize a physical therapist as opposed to exercising on your own to help you with a successful recovery. Without the help of an expert, you could re-injure yourself or create more damage undoing all the work that was done. 

Have you undergone a knee anthroscopy and are seeking a local physical therapist to help with recovery? Or planning for a procedure? North Platte Physical Therapy is your go-to physical therapist, experienced with common surgeries. We’ll create a customized plan for you to help to recover fast and avoid future injuries. Our experienced staff will create the perfect rehabilitation plan to help you get back to normal activities and movement. Contact us today to schedule an appointment near you. 
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Casper Physical Therapy Explains High School Football Injuries

October 31, 2018

Casper Physical Therapy Explains High School Football Injuries
Each year, there are more than a half million injuries each year on American high school football fields. Given the severity and impact of these injuries, it is best to act as soon as possible—even if signs and symptoms seem non-existent. It is a mistake many students make that can affect them throughout their life. Learn about the top types of high school football injuries, handling concussions, and using Casper physical therapy to recover. 
 

Most Common Types of Injuries


Given that football is a contact sport, injuries may occur. Some of the most common injuries experienced by student athletes include:

Achilles tendonitis: Swelling can occur when the Achilles tendon (back of the ankle) is strained. 
Fractures: Contact or quick movements can lead to fractures in the hands, legs, and more. 
Knee: Occurring from rapid twisting movements or contact, ligaments in the knee can be stretched or torn. 
Rotator cuff: The rotator cuff is a primary support within the shoulder. When strained, it can lead to radiating arm pain. 
Strains: Strains occur when muscles in an area have been overly stretched. They can be painful when overly extended or if they tear. 
Sprains: Sprains arise when ligaments, which connect muscles to bones, are negatively impacted. They can be overstretched or tear. 

Handling Concussions


Concussions are brain injuries, commonly due to an impact to the head, as well as quick, rapid movements. These rapid movements cause the brain to move around, causing issues. This movement can cause bruising or problems with crucial blood vessels. Upon receiving a blow, a student-athlete should be checked out as soon as possible. Signs of a concussion include: 
  • Blurred vision
  • Brain fog
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Nausea
  • Slurred speech
  • Tinnitus
  • Vomiting

The go-to way a student-athlete needs to recover from a concussion is to rest. Many wonder, “is it safe to sleep if you have a concussion?” If symptoms are minimal, it may be fine. It is best to go by the advice of a doctor to be certain. In extreme cases, falling asleep with a concussion can lead to a loss of consciousness. 

Recovery and Physical Therapy


For injured student football players, it is imperative to see a local physical throughout the recovery process. A premier physical therapist will ensure your student takes proper measures for a swift and successful recovery. From there, physical therapists can help the student improve their sport. This can be done by teaching various stances and techniques to avoid injuries. Students that have not sustained an injury will still benefit from training with a physical therapist to avoid getting hurt in the future. For many students, an injury can be career ending, which is unfortunate before their actual athletic career really begins. 

If your child has sustained an injury playing football, North Platte Physical Therapy’s sports medicine team will aid in their recovery. Specializing in student-athletes, we can help with recovery as well as athletic training. This will help your student avoid injuries in the future and become a stronger, quality athlete. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 
 
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What Your Physical Therapist Has to Say About Keeping Knee Injuries From Occurring

October 17, 2018

What Your Physical Therapist Has to Say About Keeping Knee Injuries From Occurring
If you’re an athlete—either someone who competes or just a weekend warrior—chances are pretty good that you have experienced some kind of knee issue. In fact, knee injuries are one of the most common reasons people seek out treatment such as physical therapy. Not only do knee injuries hurt, but they can prevent you from participating in the sports you love—and they can make life difficult in general. Before your healthy knees become unhealthy knees, read on to find out what a Cheyenne, WY physical therapist has to say about how you can protect your knees from injury.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Even just the stress of walking can harm your knees if you are carrying around extra pounds. Then if you had sports into the mix, you are really adding to the burden your knees must handle. Keep your weight at an appropriate level for your height to keep your knees from being unduly stressed.

Find Low-Impact Activities

If you are carrying around a few extra pounds that you want to lose, or if your knees have a tendency to be tender, sticking to low-impact activities can really help the impact on your knees while still keeping you active. If you are looking for cardio options, there are plenty of machines at the gym, such as the elliptical, that can give your heart a good workout and keep your knees protected.

Warm Up Before and Stretch After Each Work Out

Both of these are easy to skip when you are eager to get started competing or working out, but both are important to your routine. Warming up will loosen up muscles and tendons, making you less prone to injury. Stretching after your workout will help with mobility, and also help to protect you from injury.

Wear Good Quality Shoes

If you are on your feet a lot—whether for sports or for everyday life—wear the right shoes for the job. If you stand a lot for your job, the proper footwear can protect your knees as well as your back. They can also keep you more comfortable all day. If you are into a sport such as running, go to a professional running store so they can recommend the proper shoe. This article has good information on appropriate shoes for both walking and running: 10 Best Walking and Running Shoes for Bad Knees and OA Knee Pain.

Strength Train

Strength training—as long as you are using proper form—can strengthen the muscles and tendons in your legs, making less prone to injury. Have a coach or personal trainer give you training on proper form as this is essential to prevent injuries. 

Seek Physical Therapy When Needed

Sometimes injuries and strains happen, and when they do, don’t hesitate to seek out the help of a physical therapist to help you get past the pain. You can find out more about seeing a physical therapist and learning what to expect by reading here.

At North Platte Physical Therapy, we want our patients to have healthy knees and live a pain-free life. If you have suffered an injury, we invite you to contact North Platte Physical Therapy to learn more about how we can help you recover. Our staff is well known throughout Wyoming because of our strong commitment to our patients. We can fulfill comprehensive physical therapy services, and we look forward to creating a custom a treatment plan based on your needs. Contact us today!
 
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