About Us
SPINEgroup®
SPINEgroup® offers a team of licensed and skilled clinicians including Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Massage Therapists, a Medical Physician and a Dietician. We also work with a network of clinical professionals including Podiatrists, Counsellors, Registered Nurses and Medical Specialists. Our facility is equipped with the latest equipment as well as diagnosis and assessment tools based on best practices. Our standards of care are consistently delivered, so patients receive the best care possible
Our Commitment
SPINEgroup® is committed to excellence in clinical care and quality improvement to ensure we continue to provide quality services to clients and our community.
SPINEgroup® has a very competitive process when selecting our registered clinical team. Upon selection, our clinicians receive ongoing training and mentoring in our evidence- based protocols. Staff are audited and their performance evaluated to ensure use of best practices and compliance. From time to time, you will be case managed by our clinical director.
These measures ensure only the most qualified, experienced and skilled doctors and therapists are selected to provide your care.
Our approach is always individualized and highly patient focused. Our clinical management team has in-depth knowledge of rehabilitative and pain medicine with clinical skills to assess, diagnose and treat MSK injury or disability, with the goal of helping patients reduce pain, regain strength, function, movement and overall better quality of life.
Our Team
- 905-850-7746
Dr. Connie D’Astolfo, DC, PhD (c)
Chiropractor and Clinical Director
Dr. Connie D’Astolfo is a Chiropractor and the Clinical Director of SPINEgroup, She is also a researcher and health care consultant. Dr. D’Astolfo is one of a small handful of chiropractors in Canada in the process of completing her PhD and engaged in full time clinical practice. This dual expertise ensures you are receiving the most up to date and innovative treatment programs and options.
Dr. D’Astolfo has a special interest in rehabilitation and Spine Care and is currently completing her PhD research study on the Prevalence and Impact of Spine Pain Disorders in Ontario Seniors. Her post graduate training and expertise outside of clinical practice include program development and evaluation, healthcare policy and management.
Dr. D’Astolfo has recently been awarded an Advanced Practice certification for Low Back by Rapid Access Clinic (RAC). This innovative program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health. She is also newly certified by GLA:D to provide specialized rehabilitation for knee and hip osteoarthritis and by Spinemobility for Spinal Stenosis Boot Camp Rehab.
Credentials and Qualifications
- Doctor of Chiropractic Degree, National University of Health Sciences
- Health Administration; University of Toronto Faculty of Medicine
- PhD Candidate, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University
- Advanced Practice Provider, RAC Low Back MOHLTC
- GLA:D certified for Hip and Knee OA Rehabilitation
- Spinal Stenosis Boot Camp, Mount Sinai Hospital- Spinemobility
- Certified Independent Evaluator
- Member of the Ontario Chiropractic Association
- Member of the Canadian Chiropractic Association
Thought Leadership
Dr. D’Astolfo has expertise in performance management and program evaluation. She consults with government and health organizations on policy and health management initiatives. Early in her career, Dr. D’Astolfo pioneered and led an inter-disciplinary pain management team for several long term-care homes and was the first chiropractor in Long-Term Care in Ontario. Dr. D’Astolfo continues to pursue her passion for eldercare through research and development of innovative programs dedicated to the rehabilitation of seniors in the community and in Long-Term care. Dr. D’Astolfo has held many lead consulting positions with the Ontario Ministry of Health.
Ayesha Iqbal, MSc PT
Registered Physiotherapist
Ayesha graduated from University of Toronto with a Masters of Science in Physical Therapy. Prior to this, she has completed her Honours Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Psychology at York University. During her time at York, she did extensive research in metabolism and eating psychology which has widened her perspectives on rehabilitation; concluding that a holistic approach to care is essential for optimum well-being. Ayesha is passionate about client centered care; she believes in using various approaches including hands-on work, exercise prescription, modalities, stretching and education to help patients get the most benefit out of the treatment sessions.
Drishti Patel, BSc PT
Physiotherapy Assistant
Drishti is a passionate Physiotherapy Assistant. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Physiotherapy and post Graduate Diploma from Humber College in Fitness and Health Promotion. Drishti has 5+ years experience in healthcare and she has a great grasp in coordinating patient care and providing positive outcomes.
Delton Liu, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Delton Liu is a registered massage therapist (RMT) with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, specializing in pain management and relaxation. Educated in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Delton is trained in a wide range of therapeutic modalities including Tuina, Trigger Point Therapy, Deep Tissue Massage, Fascial Release Therapy and Cupping. He is experienced in treating and relieving symptoms related to a number of conditions, including but not limited to migraines, tension headaches, sports injuries, chronic pain, back pain. Delton is a passionate healthcare provider who is committed to supporting you on your health and recovery journey.
Hanaru Tan, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Hanaru Tan is a dedicated Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) with a background in Rehabilitative Sciences and has extensive training from Humber College, where she graduated with honors.
Hanaru has gained a diverse range of clinical experience through rotations at esteemed institutions such as the Humber CHL Clinic, Canadian Ice Academy, St. John’s Rehab at Sunnybrook, and Circle of Care. These experiences allowed her to develop a deeper understanding of patient interaction and to refine her techniques for targeting different therapeutic goals.
With a firm belief in the power of human touch as a medium for healing and rehabilitation, Hanaru focuses on providing holistic well-being for clients, addressing not only physical issues but also contributing to mental and emotional health. Her practice, particularly in pediatrics, has shown that patients respond positively to touch as a sensory modulation strategy. This observation continues to drive her passion for exploring various massage techniques to enhance the care provided to all patients.
As an RMT, Hanaru aspires to be a leader in the field, sharing her knowledge and skills to improve the standards of massage therapy practice in her community and beyond. She is committed to lifelong learning and innovation, ensuring that each client receives personalized and effective care.
Musaib Surya, OT
occupational Therapist
Musaib graduated with a bachelors degree in occupational therapy in 2020. He also completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Occupational Health, safety and Wellness from Conestoga College in 2022. He is currently a Registered Occupational Therapist with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and has a keen interest in working with hand and upper extremity conditions. Outside of work, Musaib likes to keep himself physically active by hiking, cycling and volleyball.
Dr. Nazila Yal, ND
naturopath
Dr. Nazila Yal graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Additionally, she is a board-certified anesthesiologist and fellowship of pediatric anesthesiology from Iran.
She is a member of both the Ontario Naturopathic Association and the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors. With her wealth of knowledge and years of experience in pediatric anesthesiology, research, teaching, and naturopathic medicine, she confidently practices based on evidence. Dr. Yal’s warm presence and attention to detail creates a safe and welcoming space where patients are heard.
Her approach involves investigating and treating the root cause of diseases, focusing on long-term wellness, and improving the quality of life. She explores various contributors to general health, such as pain management, nutritional deficiency, hormonal imbalances, gut health, adrenal health, toxin exposure, inflammation and infection.
Reza Nazem Boushehri, RD
Registered Dietitian
Reza is a registered dietitian with over a decade of experience in diverse health care settings, specializing in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. He is a member of the College of Dietitians of Ontario, Dietitians of Canada and Consulting Dietitians. On his journey to update himself, he was graduated from Ryerson university, an International Dietetic Pre-Registration program.
After completing a Bachelor of Science degree in Food and Nutrition, Reza worked at 600 bed hospital and assisted a lot of patients in the management of nutrition-related diseases. Then, as a corporate nutritionist, one of his role was providing nutritional intervention and counselling to employees. As a result, he empowered 400 employees with hyperlipidemia to achieve an average reduction in blood Low-density Lipoprotein [LDL] levels by 10 % within a year. Meanwhile, Reza worked with athletes, ranging from the recreational level to professional (National Gymnastics team of Iran) and empowered many of them to achieve their fitness and performance goals.
Reza provides nutrition counselling to adults and older adults with weight challenges, high cholesterol, high blood sugar level, high blood pressure, heart disease, gastrointestinal issues and etc. He believes in the prevention of coronary heart disease and most of cancers through life style modifications. Outside of his work, he is an advocate for Canadian Diabetes Association. He is also an avid swimmer and sports enthusiast.
Mary Caruana
Medical Office Administrator & Admin Manager
Mary is a Medical Office Administrator and Admin Manager at SPINEgroup. She is passionate about helping patients. With her combined medical and business experience, she is committed to always doing her best to assist both our patients and team with a sincere level of care, empathy, and compassion.
Rechal Masih
Medical Office Administrator
Rechal joined our team as a Medical Office Administrator. Rechal has experience as a health care aide and office administrator. She is passionate about helping patients and eager to work at SPINEgroup. She is willing to assist patients however she can, for a positive office experience.
Sofie
Certified Facility Service Dog
Meet Sofie, our Facility Service Dog! Sofie is a purebred Labrador Retriever Dog. Sofie is a happy, playful and gentle dog who will surely melt your heart with her sweet face and disposition. Sofie assists with rehabilitation and provides comfort to anxious and depressed patients. Sofie has achieved her Canine Good Neighbour (CGN) certification and completed Advanced levels in Obedience Training, Therapy Dog Training, Rally Obedience and Scent Training. Sofie also participates in competitive trials in Rally Obedience.
Sofie has most recently achieved her Certification as a Service Dog with full public access though Canine Support Services (CCS.) CSS adheres to National Standards and certifies that the dog meets the highest standards in the industry to ensure the safety of all dogs and their handlers while working in public spaces. Sofie is also recognized by the City of Vaughan Animal Servces as a certified “Service Dog”.
Sofie participates in our outreach wellness programs including visits to workplaces, schools, hospices and long term care homes. Learn more about Sofie here.
