You do not need a doctor’s referral to book a physiotherapy appointment in Ontario, including at our Vaughan clinic. However, some insurance plans require a physician’s referral for reimbursement, and in certain cases your physiotherapist may suggest seeing your family doctor or a sports medicine physician for additional testing or imaging.
We'll help keep you active, injury free and feeling your best!
Our Vaughan-based team of chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, and sports medicine doctors collaborate to ensure you reach peak physical health.
Why Choose Athlete's Care?
HOW WE CAN HELP
Visit our team of physiotherapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, sports medicine physicians and physiatrists at Athlete's Care Vaughan. We are trusted and experienced healthcare providers who believe in an active, dynamic approach to rehabilitation. Whether you have a sport related injury, a workplace injury or if you're experiencing pain caused by everyday activity, we can help! Book an appointment today and see why thousands of patients have trusted us with their sports medicine needs.
Detailed Assessment. Personalized Treatment
Our goal is to provide you with the appropriate care necessary for a quick return to doing what you enjoy.
Multifaceted Treatment. Modern Equipment
Our approach to treatment often includes a combination of 'hands-on' manual therapy techniques, acupuncture, exercise programs, performance taping and the latest in modern therapy equipment.
Easy Booking. Convenient Treatment Sessions
- Easy online booking.
- Early morning, evening & weekend appointments
- Specialized Runner's Program and Pelvic Health Physiotherapy
Insurer Accepted. Direct Billing to Most Providers
Our goal is to provide you with high quality physiotherapy treatments that are hassle-free. We are able to bill directly to most insurance companies on your behalf. Not sure if you’re covered? Give us a call and we will direct you to the appropriate resources to find out.
Insurer Accepted
Our goal is to provide you with high quality physiotherapy treatments that are hassle-free. We are able to bill directly to most insurance companies on your behalf. Not sure if you’re covered? Give us a call and we will direct you to the appropriate resources to find out.
Brenda Lantz, BHScPT, BPE, MCPA
Registered PhysiotherapistManual TherapyAcupuncture
Brenda has extensive experience in the treatment of acute and chronic muscle and joint injuries, as well as post operative patients. Brenda's assessment and treatment focuses on each patient's specific needs and goals, working with you to create your individual Plan of Care. Brenda's personal interests include golf, yoga and paddle boarding.
Michael D'Aiuto, MPT, DAC, BED, BScKin
Registered PhysiotherapistMedical AcupunctureRunner's Program
Michael is extremely knowledgeable and experienced with exercise and high performance conditioning from years of participation in various competitive level sports and through his extensive academic training. Michael continues to be involved in a wide variety of sports and has special interest in training athletes in injury prevention, strength/conditioning, and performance optimization.
Sienna De Caro, MScPT, BKin
Registered PhysiotherapistPelvic Health Physiotherapy
Sienna has a strong passion in advocating for the overall health and well-being of her clients and helping them achieve their highest function and best self. Sienna takes a client-centered approach to treatment with a focus on thorough assessments, manual techniques and personalized exercised prescriptions.
Sandro Cestra, MPT, BA(Kin)
Registered PhysiotherapistRunner's Program
Sandro empowers his patients by taking an active approach to physical rehabilitation, placing emphasis on therapeutic exercise and education, in addition to using manual therapy techniques. Some of Sandro's personal interests include exercising and playing guitar.
Vala Gharagozlou, MScPT
Registered Physiotherapist
Vala is a Physiotherapist Resident with a lifelong passion for sports and movement. He completed his Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto. His approach combines hands-on manual therapy, targeted exercise, and the latest evidence-based techniques to help patients recover, move confidently, and reach their goals. Vala focuses on equipping patients with the tools and knowledge to self-manage, using movement as medicine to improve long-term health and quality of life.
Daniel Zavalokovsky, MScPT, BScKin
Registered PhysiotherapistAcupuncture & Dry Needling
Mckenzie Method
Daniel integrates the biopsychosocial model into his practice, addressing the physical, psychological, and social factors affecting health. This holistic approach allows him to tailor treatments to each patient's unique needs, ensuring comprehensive care.
Cristina Piticco, MSC.PT, BSC, CSEP-CEP
Registered PhysiotherapistManual TherapyMedical Acupuncture ProviderCertified Sport PhysiotherapistSenior Associate
Cristina obtained her Master's of Physiotherapy Degree from McGill University and a Bachelor's of Science in Kinesiology from York University. She believes the key to a successful and sustainable recovery stems from a patient-centered care model and strives to inspire all her patients to become more active, healthy, and happy.
Akeela Baksh, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Akeela's interests include holistic care and sports massage for rehabilitation ad injury prevention. Akeela's practice focuses on optimizing the body's ability to heal and repair through the use of various massage and soft tissue techniques.
Sean Li, RMT
Registered Massage Therapist
Sean is a Registered Massage Therapist and a graduate from Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology. Sean became a Massage Therapist because he enjoys helping people and seeing positive changes in the health of his clients. He has experience treating a variety of conditions and ailments including thoracic outlet syndrome, carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis, pre/post-natal, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Sean uses a combination of education, manual therapy, and exercise rehabilitation to achieve your goals and needs.
Dr. Matthew Parente, DC, BSc(Hons)
ChiropractorMedical Acupuncture
Dr. Matthew Parente is a passionate and patient-centered chiropractor who recently earned his Doctor of Chiropractic from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, graduating Summa Cum Laude and receiving the prestigious R.D. Farnsworth Chiropractic Adjustment Award in 2025. His treatment approach is evidence-based and patient-focused, drawing from a wide range of therapeutic techniques including joint manipulation, soft tissue therapy, exercise prescription, and integrated needling. He is committed to working collaboratively with patients of all activity levels to reduce pain, improve function, and achieve their personal health goals.
Dr. Borna Kavousi, MD
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Dr. Borna Kavousi completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (Physiatry) at the State University of New York and went on to complete a fellowship in Sports Medicine at the same institution. Dr. Kavousi has a special interest in rehabilitative and musculoskeletal medicine, sports medicine, and peripheral joint injections..
Wide Range of Therapy Solutions All In One Place
Using a combination of therapy options, our physiotherapists will develop a personalized treatment plan that gets you results.
- Physiotherapy
- Exercise Rehabilitation
- Medical Acupuncture
- Dry Needling
- Manual Therapy
- Kinesio Taping
- Shockwave Therapy
- Laser Therapy
- Massage Therapy
- Chiropractic Care
- Fascial Stretch Therapy
- Active Release Technique
- HA Viscosupplementation
- Orthopaedic Bracing
- Orthotics
Specialized Programs at Athlete's Care - Vaughan
The Vaughan Physiotherapists at Athlete's Care offer specialized programs aimed to reduce or prevent injury.
Runner's Program
The Running Physio at Athlete’s Care is a specialized, science-driven program designed to address the unique needs of runners at all levels, from beginners to elite athletes. This program focuses on injury recovery, injury prevention, performance enhancement, and long-term musculoskeletal health. This program is ideal for:
- Runners recovering from acute or chronic injuries
- Those looking to improve running efficiency and prevent future injuries
- Athletes preparing for marathons, ultramarathons, or other competitive events
- Casual runners seeking to build sustainable running habits
Our Runner’s Program equips runners with the tools and knowledge to heal, train smarter, and achieve their running goals while maintaining long-term health.
Pelvic Health
Even though pelvic floor challenges are common, they are treatable and you should not have to live with them. Research strongly supports pelvic floor treatment as the first line of defense against incontinence and pelvic pain.
Common signs that can indicate a pelvic floor problem include:
- accidentally leaking urine when you exercise, play sport, laugh, cough or sneeze
- needing to get to the toilet in a hurry or not making it there in time
- accidentally losing control of your bowel
- a prolapse (pressure, bulging or discomfort in the pelvic area)
- pain in your pelvic area, or painful intercourse
Pelvic health treatment can help you regain control, maximize your function and recovery, and improve your well-being.
Successfully Treated these Common Injuries
- Ankle - Sprains and Strains
- Arthritis - Osteo Joint Pain
- Back Pain
- Bursitis
- Concussions
- Elbow - Tennis, Golfer's
- Foot - Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis
- Hip - Fracture, OA
- Knee - ACL, MCL, Meniscal, Tendonitis
- Neck - Strain
- Osteoporosis
- Overuse Injuries
- Patella Tendonitis
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Pre and Post Surgical Rehabilitation
- Sciatica - Piriformis Syndrome
- Shoulder -Frozen, Rotator Cuff
- Sports Related Injuries
- Strains & Sprains
- Wrist - Carpal Tunnel, DeQuervian's
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a doctor’s referral for physiotherapy in Toronto at Athlete's Care?
What should I wear to my physiotherapy appointment?
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being assessed and treated, such as shorts for a knee injury or a tank top for a shoulder or neck issue. Athletic wear like t‑shirts, leggings, or track pants usually works best so you can move freely during your exercises and treatment.
What should I bring to my first physiotherapy appointment?
If you plan to use extended health benefits, bring your insurance information so our administrative team can check whether direct billing for physiotherapy is available with your insurance provider. A referral or doctor’s note is helpful but not required, and you should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing so your physiotherapist can properly assess and treat the injured area.
What happens during my first physiotherapy visit?
On your first visit, a Registered Physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment of your injury, medical history, and goals. Based on this assessment, your therapist will create a personalized treatment plan and usually begin hands‑on treatment and exercises during that same initial appointment.
What if I don’t have insurance coverage for physiotherapy?
You can still receive physiotherapy treatment even without insurance coverage; many patients choose to pay out-of-pocket for their sessions at our Vaughan clinic. We accept major credit cards, and debit, and your physiotherapist will focus only on the treatment you truly need while giving you a home exercise program to continue your recovery between visits.
Effective, Personalized Care for physiotherapy and all your sports medicine needs.
Conveniently located Vaughan physio clinic is located on the south side of Major MacKenzie Drive, between Keele & Jane Street. The clinic is in the Maple Plaza
Athlete's Care Sports Medicine Centres
2535 Major MacKenzie Drive West, Unit #7
Vaughan, Ontario L6A 1C6