Meet the Team

Dr. DeShan Gross grew up in the tight-knit community of Forestdale, Alabama, where he developed a strong work ethic and a natural curiosity for how things function, whether in people or in machines. He attended Minor High School before continuing his education at Walker Junior College. Driven by a passion for learning and personal growth, he later transferred to Auburn University, where he earned his degree in Biological Science.

During his college years, DeShan experienced a life-changing struggle with a debilitating headache condition. He pursued every avenue of relief available, reducing stress, medications, MRIs, and even acupuncture — yet nothing provided lasting help. It was only after seeking chiropractic care that he finally found real and measurable relief. That transformation sparked a new passion and purpose: to help others reclaim their lives from pain, just as he had. 

Motivated by this calling, he enrolled at Life University, where he excelled academically and graduated with honors as a Doctor of Chiropractic. Shortly after, Dr. Gross accepted an opportunity to practice in Bermuda, serving patients there for several months and gaining international experience. There he worked closely with physicians, nurses, and therapists and learned the value of a team approach to healthcare.

Eventually, his heart brought him back home to Alabama. He settled in the Trussville area and opened Central Alabama Spine Center, where he dedicated over 20 years to improving the health and well-being of his community. 

In 2022, a new opportunity arose, joining Dr. Matthew Burke, an experienced physical therapist, to launch Vestavia Spine and Rehabilitation Center. Together, through chiropractic care and physical therapy, and working closely with other medical professionals, they are continuing their mission to help people feel better, move better, and enjoy life more. 

Outside the clinic, Dr. Gross is a family man who enjoys spending time with his wife, being outdoors, and tinkering with anything mechanical that needs a little fixing. His hands-on approach to life, his deep empathy for those in pain, and his commitment to continual improvement define both the doctor and the man.

Matthew is a licensed physical therapist with a passion for helping patients regain strength, mobility & confidence in their everyday lives. With over 20 years of clinical experience in inpatient, skilled nursing, & outpatient settings, he takes a personalised approach to care, combining manual therapy, patient education, and evidence-based techniques. His personal journey through a few sports and overuse injuries of his own opened his eyes to the incredible impact physical therapists can have on an individual's ability to return to their desired level of function. When not in the clinic, Matthew enjoys spending his free time hiking and traveling with his wife, Alisha.

Education, Experience and Memberships:

• B.S. Biology, with a focus in Health Professions from the University of South Alabama in 2009
• Doctor of Physical Therapy from Alabama State University in 2012
• McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy® trained in 2016
• Certified Dry Needling Practitioner by the American Academy of Manipulative Therapy Dry Needling Institute in 2022
• Outpatient Physical Therapist since 2012
• Member of the American Physical Therapy Association & Alabama Physical Therapy Association since 2012