Meet Our Staff

Dr. Scott founded Next Level in 2010 hoping to bring a personalized, modern, research-based approach to chiropractic care and physical therapy to the Pittsburgh area.  In private practice since that time, he enjoys working with pain and injury of all types assisting his patients in getting back to doing what they love. Next Level is constantly growing and evolving. The future vision for the company is to create a truly patient-centered, integrated pain solution system in Western Pennsylvania through technology and strategic partnerships with the best local physicians.  

Certifications include:  

 -Adjunct Professor Palmer College of Chiropractic 

-Certified Chiropractic Extremity Practitioner (CCEP) ​ 

-Full-body certified in ART (Active Release Technique)  

-Member of the ART Ironman Provider Network  

-Member of the ART Elite Provider Network  

-Certified SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment) Provider  

-Titleist Certified Level II Medical Professional   

-USA Rugby ICIR (Immediate Care in Rugby) Certified 

Dr. Scott received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Pittsburgh in 2006 where he majored in Chemistry.  He then attended Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa where he graduated with his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2010.

Dr. Palmieri is passionate about improving the lives of his patients through sports rehabilitation, injury prevention, and performance enhancement. He has worked with all levels of athletes ranging from weekend warriors to those in Major League Baseball and the NFL.

 Certifications  include:
 

- Full-body certified in ART (Active Release Technique)

- Member of the ART Elite Provider Network
- SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment)
- FAKTR (Functional and Kinetic Treatment with Rehab)
- Rocktape FMT 1&2 Certified
- CF-L1 Trainer
- ClinicalAthlete Weightlifting Certified Coach

- Training Think Tank Movement
 

Dr. Palmieri received his Bachelors of Science degree from Grove City College in Grove City, PA where he majored in Biology and played on the Varsity Football Team. He then attended Sherman College of Chiropractic in Spartanburg, SC where he graduated with his Doctorate of Chiropractic.

Lauren is a Physical Therapist who has a diverse background in sports medicine and pediatrics and enjoys working with anyone from children to athletes. As an endurance athlete herself, Lauren's passion lies in treating endurance athletes and assisting in the recovery process. She has worked with all levels of athletes from professional to college to high school and weekend warriors. Her special niche is working with adaptive athletes and helping individuals break down barriers.

Credentials Include:

-   Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
-   200 hour Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Teacher
-   RRCA Certified Running Coach

-   USATF Level 1 Certified Coach
-   CF-L1 coach

Lauren received her Bachelors of Science degree from Virginia Tech where she studied Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise Science and was the student athletic trainer for the baseball team. She then attended Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA for her Doctorate in Physical Therapy. After practicing for a few years she decided to go back to school at Slippery Rock University obtaining her Masters in Adapted Physical Activity.

Dr. Bergquist has had the opportunity to work with current and former athletes of all ages and skill levels. He understands that the basic biomechanical forces that govern motion in the body of an elite level athlete, also create the basic movements of every day life such as sitting, standing, and walking. Dr. Bergquist's goal is to implement care that acts as a catalyst to speed the process towards recovery and optimal performance, while also providing patients with education and tools that promote self-reliance.

Certifications Include:
 

- Full-body certified in ART (Active Release Technique)
- Certified IASTM (Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization)
- FMS (Functional Movement Screening)
- Certified SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment)
- Certified FMT (Fascial Movement Taping) Level 1&2
 

Dr. Bren Bergquist received his Baccalaureate of Science in Biology from Hillsdale College in Michigan, where he was also a 4-year letter winner on the football team. He then attended Life University in Marietta, GA where he graduated with his Doctorate of Chiropractic.​

Dr. Minella is passionate about improving his patients’ quality of life through integrated care. Functional rehab and soft tissue modalities continue to provide his patients with sustained and long-lasting results. Dr. Minella has treated a variety of athletes ranging from high school competitors to NFL, MLB, and NHL athletes. 

Certifications include:
 

- Full-body certified in Nimmo (Trigger Point Therapy)
- Certified in Functional Taping for Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Member of National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Certified in Custom Stabilizing Orthotics
- NASM Certified Weight Loss Specialist
- Whole Foods Nutrition Certified
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer 

Dr. Minella received his Bachelor of Science from Washington & Jefferson College in 2008 where he majored in Psychology. He completed his post baccalaureate at LECOM (Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine) in 2009. He then attended New York Chiropractic College in Seneca Falls, New York where he graduated with his Doctorate of Chiropractic in 2014.

  Dr Eggert joined the Next Level team to fulfill his passion of guiding patients on their journey to their fitness and athletic goals. As a sports chiropractor, he uses evidence-based injury rehabilitation and prevention to bridge the gap between rehab and performance. Dr. Eggert works with individuals of all skill levels to bring them back from injury and break through plateaus. He utilizes chiropractic care, sport specific soft tissue techniques, and individualized rehab exercises to maximize recovery and enhance performance. 

Certifications Include:

-    Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)

-    Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) 

-    Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association 

As a south-hills native, Dr. Eggert earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh where he studied human biology, psychology, and chemistry. He went on to attend Palmer College of Chiropractic in Florida, where he graduated second in his class with his Doctorate of Chiropractic. While there, he specialized in performance mobility assessment and athletic injury management in the Palmer Clinical Rehabilitation Department. 

Dr. Julia Saccucci brings a wealth of compassion and expertise to Next Level Spine and Sport’s Chiropractic team. She is very proud to add a female Chiropractor to this highly competent clinical sports staff and expand the clinic experience. With an in-depth knowledge of exercise demands, recovery, and personalized rehabilitation, Dr. Saccucci is the ideal practitioner for patients working through injuries as they aspire to their health and fitness goals. Dr. Saccucci emphasizes patient education during treatment as she knows the importance of equipping patients with the knowledge and tools to be stronger and healthier than ever. 

Certifications include:

- Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)

- Representative of the Motion Palpation Institute 

Dr. Saccucci received her Bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University, where she studied Exercise Science and Biology. She then went on to attend Palmer College of Chiropractic, Florida campus, where she was promoted to a leadership position for the Motion Palpation Institute.  In this position she gained experience teaching in depth biomechanics and utilizing multiple evidence- based treatment approaches for muscle and joint injuries. Dr. Saccucci also specialized in functional movement evaluations and rehabilitative exercise prescription in the Palmer Rehabilitation Clinic. 

Shona is a Physical Therapist who has a passion for treating patients with the intent to return them to the activities that bring them joy.  She has a background in sports medicine and treating the general population. Shona has also worked with athletes of all levels, ranging from recreational to professional, however, her special area of interest is working with barbell athletes. Shona has been a part of the Crossfit community since 2013, competing in local competitions as well as sanctioned Olympic weightlifting and Powerlifting meets.    

 Credentials Include:    

-   USA Weightlifting Level 1 and 2   

-   The Barbell Rehab Method      

Shona received her Bachelors of Science degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she studied Natural Science and was a student athlete for their track and field program. She then attended Gannon University for her Doctorate in Physical Therapy and started her career in a sports medicine facility. 

Lindsay is a Physical Therapist who has a special interest in getting her patients back to the activities that they love doing. She enjoys helping to get her patients stronger and modifying activities so that the patient can continue doing the activities they love as a part of their rehab. She is active in the Crossfit community and enjoys getting athletes back to working out pain free.  She has a special interest in rehabbing back and shoulder injuries, especially within the Crossfit population.  

Credentials Include:

- Cert- Clinical Management of the Fitness Athlete

- CF-L1 Coach

Lindsay earned her Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh. She then obtained her Doctor of Physical Therapy at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She has worked throughout her career to stay up-to-date with the latest physical therapy research and treatments and has experience treating a variety of populations.

Teresa is a Pittsburgh native with a passion for athletics and fitness.  Her aim is to work with athletes and patients in order to help individuals become more functional and efficient both in competition and everyday life. 

Certifications Include: 

-   Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)

-   Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
​-   Full-Body Certified in Active Release Technique (A.R.T)

Teresa received her Bachelor of Science from Grove City College in Grove City, Pa. While she was there she majored in Exercise Science and played on the Women’s Varsity Basketball Team.

 Tianna enjoys working with patients of all conditions and abilities. She also has a passion for learning the specifics of sports injuries as they relate to the individual. Her goal is to tailor exercise prescription to the individual’s needs and goals. Her credentials include:

- Member of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- Member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
- Member of American Physiological Society 

Tianna received her Bachelor of Science from Slippery Rock University in 2018 where she majored in Exercise Science. While at Slippery Rock, Tianna completed research projects related to cardiovascular risk factor assessment, and ballistic exercise training.  

Connie is a 2019 graduate of Laurel Technical Institute's Massage Therapy Program.  While Connie has experience in relaxation techniques, Massage Cupping, Thai Massage, and Hot Stones, she finds it very rewarding to use her Therapeutic techniques to help her clients restore functional movement, aid in muscle recovery, and deal with chronic pain.  Certifications Include:

- Licensed Massage Therapist

- Certified Massage Cupping Practitioner

- Thai Yoga Massage Provider

- Personal Training and Group Personal Training 

 Connie believes that wellness isn't just the physical body but also the mind and spirit.  Connie loves staying active through running, yoga, kayaking, & ice skating. Her two teenagers keep her on her toes and young at heart! 

 Heather was born and raised in Wexford, PA on her family's farm. She attended Duquesne University and graduated in 1997 with a Masters in Physical Therapy. She then worked as a Physical Therapist in various settings including, inpatient rehabilitation, school-based therapy, and home health. This has given Heather experience treating clients of all ages who struggle with pain, orthopedic and neurological issues. She has always prided herself on her ability to connect with her clients and help them to meet their goals.

After 24 years Heather stepped away from Physical Therapy and returned to school to complete her education in massage therapy at Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy with a focus on neuromuscular massage. She is now a Licensed Massage Therapist, and comes to the profession with a unique perspective on injury recovery and functional mobility.

Heather resides in Wexford with her husband and 2 teenage daughters.

Kaitlyn is a Licensed Massage Therapist from Pittsburgh who graduated from Everest Institute in 2012. 

She specializes in deep tissue and myofascial massage for clients with chronic pain and injuries. She is also certified in prenatal massage and cupping.