Director of Physiotherapy / VP Clinic Services , BScPT, BSc(Bio), MCPA
David Brien is the Director of Physiotherapy and Senior Therapist at Back on Track as well as the Senior VP of Novo Healthnet's Eastern Division. David has been a physiotherapist with Back on Track since 1999. He has been responsible for patient care, marketing strategies, the Golf Kinetics program, and writing a regular Golf Healthy article for Flagstick magazine. As Director of Physiotherapy for Back on Track David supervises and educates all team therapists, physiotherapy aids, and kinesiologists. He also oversees the day to day operation of the 13 clinics and assumes responsibility for maintaining the highest level of patient care.
David grew up in Saint John, NB and graduated with a B.Sc (Honors Biology) from UNB in Fredericton. He went on to receive his B.Sc.PT (Honours) from Dalhousie University in Halifax, NS. David has a special interest in orthopaedic manual therapy and has achieved his post-graduate diploma in manual therapy from the orthopaedic division of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. David also has an interest in Golf and has completed the Golf Kinetics program, which enables him to perform biomechanical swing analysis. The purpose of the program is to design individualized exercise programs for golfer's to optimize performance and prevent golf related injuries. David is interested in running analysis and prevention/treatment of running related injuries. He has served as staff physiotherapist for the Canadian National Heptathalon/Decathalon teams.
Physiotherapist
Harshil Shah is a physiotherapist with an established background in the medical field from India, where he pursued a Bachelors degree in Physiotherapy. He is registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. His aim is to achieve goals based on the patient's health and applies a treatment approach that is patient centered and goal oriented.
Harshil completed his diploma in fitness and health promotion in Canada and possess a deep understanding of the human body's intricate mechanics. Harshil's holistic approach not only focuses on symptom relief but also on addressing the root cause of your concerns. He works closely with patients to create a collaborative treatment plan, incorporating evidence-based techniques and exercises to optimize your recovery and prevent further injury. Harshil recently completed his certification in Dry Needling. Whether you are recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or aiming to enhance your physical performance; Harshil is here to guide you in every step of your rehab journey.
Physiotherapist
Vraj is a dedicated and compassionate registered physiotherapist committed to helping individuals achieve their health, fitness, and wellness goals through a holistic and personalized approach.
A 2021 graduate of Gujarat University in India, Vraj has gained diverse clinical experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings, providing comprehensive care to patients with a wide range of conditions. His passion for continuous learning led him to pursue a diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion at Algonquin College, further expanding his ability to integrate fitness-based exercise, training principles, and wellness strategies into individualized treatment plans.
As a registered physiotherapist in good standing with the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario, Vraj is skilled in a variety of therapeutic techniques, including the Graston Technique, Acupuncture, Cupping, Kinesiology Taping and Functional Dry Needling, the latter of which he completed through Evidence in Motion. He has a strong interest in sports rehabilitation and has had the privilege of working as a physiotherapist at several local and international tennis and soccer events.
Outside of his clinical work, Vraj is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys staying active and has recently taken up tennis as a new challenge. When he's not on the court or supporting his patients, he enjoys playing video games and writing. He believes physiotherapy is a truly three-dimensional profession—one that considers the whole person. Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or looking to improve your overall fitness, Vraj is dedicated to supporting you with a personalized, evidence-based approach.
Resident Physiotherapist
Matt is a Resident Physiotherapist with a strong background in kinesiology, athletic therapy, and strength training. He completed his bachelor's degree in Kinesiology at Dalhousie University before earning his master's degree in Physiotherapy from Glasgow Caledonian University. His clinical experience spans both Canada and Scotland, giving him a diverse perspective on patient care. Prior to becoming a physiotherapist, Matt gained valuable experience as a student athletic therapist at St. Mary's University, where he worked with high-level athletes from the men's football and hockey teams. He also spent a year working as a personal trainer with Back on Track/EFL, further strengthening his skills in exercise prescription and performance training.
Matt believes in developing genuine connections with his clients and working collaboratively to create meaningful, realistic goals. His practice is rooted in evidence-based care, interprofessional collaboration, and a client-centered approach, always with the guiding question of "what is best for my client?" By combining education, hands-on manual therapy, and individualized exercise programs, Matt ensures that each client receives treatment tailored to their unique needs and goals. Outside of the clinic, Matt is passionate about staying active and engages in physical activity almost every day. He enjoys beach and indoor volleyball, skiing, biking, bouldering, and going to the gym. When not moving, he can often be found cooking, playing video games, or relaxing with a good movie or TV show.
Registered Massage Therapist
Emily McCook is a skilled and passionate registered massage therapist. With over 7 years of experience, Emily takes a holistic approach to massage therapy, believing that the body, mind and spirit are all interconnected. Emily's diverse life experiences have shaped her deep empathy and compassion for others. She is proud of her Métis heritage and is an active advocate for inclusivity, accessibility and neurodiversity. Emily brings her unique perspective and open-hearted nature to her work, helping clients achieve balance and relief through her skilled touch.
Emily incorporates a variety of techniques for treating the whole body including Swedish Massage techniques, Deep Tissue Massage, Muscle Stripping, Cupping, PNF Heat & Cold Therapy. Over time Emily has developed experience and specialized skills in treating Stress/Anxiety, TMJ, Migraines, Head, Neck & Shoulder issues, Plantar Fasciitis, Shin Splints and the treatment of Edema. When she's not working, Emily enjoys spending time outdoors with her service dog in training, Otis. She loves paddle sports, camping and traveling to experience different cultures. Above all, Emily is dedicated to helping people achieve their healthiest selves.
Occupational Therapist
As an Occupational Therapist who grew up in the Ottawa area, I have attended both the University of Guelph for an undergraduate degree in Biology, as well as McGill University to complete my Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. After graduation, I returned to the Ottawa area and work with adults and children in the community for the past 26 years.
My services include:
Helping to maximize the functioning of people in their own environments continues to be a passion, and I also continue to enjoy travelling and spending time with my family at the cottage over the summer months.
Personal Trainer/Kinesiologist
Youssef is a proud graduate of the University of Ottawa, holding an Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics. With a strong foundation in body mechanics, exercise techniques, rehabilitation, anatomy, and nutrition, he specializes in designing personalized exercise programs tailored to each individual's needs and goals.
Originally from Egypt, Youssef has been living in Canada for over 12 years. He has a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and enjoys connecting with people from all backgrounds. His passion for fitness started early, growing up playing soccer with friends and family and competing in school leagues whenever the opportunity arose.
Youssef believes in balance—not just in fitness but in life. He incorporates a well-rounded routine of weight training, proprioception, cardio endurance, and flexibility work, ensuring a sustainable approach to strength, mobility, and long-term injury prevention.
With a lifelong passion for helping others, Youssef is dedicated to guiding his clients toward their full potential. Whether it's improving strength, achieving weight loss goals, or enhancing overall health, he is committed to making each fitness journey enjoyable, effective, and fulfilling.
Certified Personal Trainer
Matt completed his Bachelor of Physical Education degree at Brock University in St.Catharines Ontario and has been an active member of the fitness industry in the Ottawa area even since. With the completion of annual continuing education credits through both The American Council of Exercise and Can Fit Pro, Matt has added many layers to his fitness knowledge base. Over the years, Matt has completed workshops including boxing, balance training as well as speed and agility training. He has had the opportunity to work with young aspiring athletes heading towards pro careers, weekend warriors looking to attain specific milestones as well as those in the senior community dealing with specific physical limitations.
In his off time, Matt is an avid golfer, hockey player, outdoor enthusiast and a passionate fan of both the Senators and Ottawa Redblacks. Through his participation in various sporting activities and knowledge of the ever-changing fitness industry, Matt has been able to create fun and effective fitness programs for those of all abilities.
CPR and AED certified.
Clinic Care Manager
Sue Bulla-Teed is the Clinic Care Manager at Back on Track, serving as the vital link between patients, practitioners, and the administrative team. With extensive experience in healthcare management and patient services, Sue ensures that every aspect of the clinic runs smoothly and that patients receive exceptional care from their first phone call through to their final treatment session. Her warm and welcoming demeanor puts patients at ease, while her organizational skills keep the clinic operating efficiently.
Sue oversees day-to-day clinic operations, manages scheduling, coordinates patient care between different practitioners, and leads the administrative team with dedication and compassion. She is often the first point of contact for patients and takes pride in creating a positive, supportive environment where everyone feels valued and cared for. Sue's commitment to excellence and her genuine care for each patient's wellbeing make her an indispensable part of the Back on Track team.