BenchMark Physical Therapy, an operator of outpatient physical therapy clinics throughout the U.S., is expanding in Wilmington.

In a recent sign of growth, BenchMark opened a clinic Sept. 12 at 409 U.S. 177 N., No. 2 in the Pender County town of Burgaw, according to a news release.

The Burgaw clinic's director, Dylan Mascarenas, earned a bachelor's degree in athletic training from East Central University and a doctor of physical therapy degree from Chapman University, the release stated.

Mascarenas is a certified athletic trainer and also certified as an orthopedic clinical specialist, according to the release.

"He is a fellow in training with the Upstream Rehab Institute orthopedic manual therapy program and an advanced dry needling specialist," the release stated. "His special interests are TMJ treatment and athletic rehabilitation."

According to the release, the Burgaw clinic is open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. 

BenchMark offers in-clinic and telehealth options for outpatient orthopedic physical therapy. "Services include manual therapy, injury prevention, return to performance, total joint replacement, concussion management and vestibular rehabilitation," the release stated.

The Southport-Oak Island Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon-cutting for the BenchMark clinic at Southport Crossing, 5013 Southport Crossing Way, Suite 204.

Clinic director Ali Glaser earned a bachelor's degree from N.C. State University and a doctor of physical therapy degree from Methodist University, according to a May news release by BenchMark.

"Certified in dry needling, Glaser is trained in myofascial release techniques for joint and spinal pain and in lumbopelvic and cervicothoracic diagnoses and treatments for neck, back and hip pain," the release stated.

Part of Upstream Rehabilitation, BenchMark has clinics in Bolivia, Carolina Beach, Wilmington (three locations), Leland, Shallotte, Ocean Isle Beach, Hampstead, North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach and more than 50 clinics throughout North Carolina, the May release stated.

According to the release, BenchMark, part of the Upstream Rehabilitation family of clinical care, offers access to care within 24 hours and works with all insurance types.