"I can’t imagine another career that will give me the foundation to make such a direct and meaningful difference in people’s lives. I am provided with the opportunity to connect with patients and oversee their journey throughout the recovery process. Each patient requires a specific approach tailored to their unique circumstance and desired goals. I aim to extend my knowledge and give patients the tools necessary to return to the activities they enjoy. I am a firm believer that exercise is medicine and devoted to improving my patient’s quality of life. "
Mark grew up in San Francisco, California where he played several sports throughout his childhood, including basketball, baseball, soccer, and football. Mark learned to value the human body and health throughout his athletic career and thus went on to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Following graduation, he worked as a physical therapy aide at an outpatient orthopedic clinic in Santa Barbara and volunteered at a local inpatient rehabilitation center to gain clinical experience prior to pursuing a higher education.
Following his undergraduate education, Mark attended the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, CA, where his received his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. During his time at USC, he was provided diverse clinical rotation experiences such as inpatient acute care at California Hospital Medical Center and multiple outpatient sports orthopedic clinics, including us, Tustin Physical Therapy Specialists! Mark’s clinical interest is in orthopedics which can include treating patients’ post-surgery or those who have experienced sport and work-related injuries.
Mark feels privileged to be part of his patients’ recovery process and watch them progress toward their goals. He combines his knowledge of anatomy/physiology with taking the time to know each patient individually to create successful therapy plans and improve the overall patient experience. He aims to bridge the gap between physical therapy and personal life through relating his treatment approach to his patient’s specific goals.
Mark prides himself in providing treatments supported by research and incorporating evidence-based practice to help patients recover as soon as possible, in the safest and most effective manner. He continually reads emerging literature as it pertains to various treatment approaches and conditions. He is dedicated to advancing his clinical skills and plans to become a board certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) in the near future.
When Mark is not at the clinic, he can be found working out at his local gym, attending professional sporting events, traveling, watching horror movies, and listening to country music. He has a bearded dragon named Ziggy, and two guinea pigs, Porky and Pickles.
