IFOMPT 2024

Matt Low - Knowledge Translation Officer, MACP

I recently attended the prestigious IFOMPT 2024 conference in Basel, Switzerland, alongside members of the MACP, including both long-standing members and newcomers. This brief article only scratches the surface of the depth of the conference but expresses some, though certainly not all, of my personal highlights.

Basel, situated at the intersection of the River Rhine where Switzerland borders Germany and France, was aptly chosen for the conference’s theme: “Crossing Bridges.” Dr Eva Würfel underscored this in her opening ceremony speech.

Marion Schreiner, Chair IFOMPT 2024 opening the conference

There was much to celebrate, particularly as the 2020 IFOMPT conference was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The organising committee, SVOMP, was instrumental in the conference’s success, working diligently over the past four years.  After an intriguing performance by musicians in harlequin masks and animal costumes, it was clear the international representation was strong, as countries paraded in with their flags.

Dr Clare Ardern’s Keynote: Right Care, Right Place, at the Right Time

Dr Clare Ardern provided the opening keynote, a significant achievement given the short notice. Her presentation, “Right Care, Right Place, at the Right Time,” emphasised listening to people with lived experiences and the global burden of musculoskeletal disorders. She drew from Joetta Belton’s work and the World Health Organization’s call for action, advocating for transparency in science and high-value healthcare that ensures equality and equity.

Dr Ardern highlighted how value care must be evidence-based, timely, available to everyone, and provide the best outcomes. She spoke about the importance of community engagement, empathetic listening, and validation for those in pain. Additionally, she acknowledged Professor Peter O’Sullivan’s work on cognitive functional therapy, a significant advancement for those with persistent pain.

The Evolution of Digital Health and AI

A major focus of the conference was the evolution of digital health, tele-rehabilitation, and artificial intelligence (AI). Dr Eric Robertson from the USA eloquently discussed AI in a focus symposium session. He acknowledged biases within AI code and the ethical challenges but emphasised the necessity of embracing AI. Dr Michael Rowe highlighted the power of generative AI in personalised learning and virtual simulations, cautioning against potential over-reliance on AI and the loss of critical thinking skills.

Dr Rowe warned of the risk of oversimplifying complex topics and the widening gap between education and clinical practice with AI. Ethical concerns about academic integrity and AI-generated content were also raised. However, he suggested that these challenges could be addressed through the careful and clear use of iterative AI prompting.  This area was fascinating and insightful and echoed repeatedly in different guises throughout the conference.

Understanding the Future of Physiotherapy: Insights from Professor David Nicholls

I was honoured to chair the second day’s keynote address.  Professor David Nicholls, from the University of Aukland, tackled some of the most pressing issues facing the field of physiotherapy today. Although he was unable to attend in person due to postgraduate commitments, Dave delivered an excellent talk that was recorded for wider accessibility.  I am sure that it will be released through the IFOMPT website soon however in the meantime I have put together an overview of Dave's talk to demostrate the breadth and depth of his thought provoking talk.  

Matt Low, Knowledge Translation, MACP

SAVE THE DATE: 

VANCOUVER  JUNE 2028!

IFOMPT's next conference in 2028  will be in Vancouver - it will be an amazing opportunity to combine work and play in the stunning scenery of British Columbia

1-3 June 2028

Look out for MACP bursaries which will likely be advertised in 2027

Gethin Lynch - Digital Officer, MACP

As vice chair of the MACP, I'm thrilled to share an expanded look at my recent experience at the IFOMPT conference in Basel. This event not only showcased leading MSK research but also sparked conversations that could shape the future of our profession and inspire future leaders.

David Nicholls' talk was nothing short of revolutionary. His critical view on the future of physiotherapy left us all pondering our roles in an evolving healthcare landscape. Nicholls challenged us to think beyond our traditional boundaries, questioning how we can remain relevant and impactful in a world of rapid technological and societal change. It was a wake-up call, and a vision of the future all rolled into one thought-provoking session.

Peter O'Sullivan's presentation on Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) was another highlight. O'Sullivan has a gift for distilling complex ideas into practical applications, and his talk did not disappoint. CFT neatly packages the essence of contemporary MSK consultations into a structured program. It was refreshing to see how this approach integrates physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors in managing chronic pain. Nothing new conceptually but a formal package of care for us all to build upon.

Enter our Fellow MACP vice-chair, Dr Colette Ridehalgh, presenting a gem of a talk entitled, "Neuroimmune Contributions to Persistent Musculoskeletal Pain Conditions: Evidence and Clinical Implications." 

Dr Colette Ridehalgh presenting . . 

A seamless fusion of high-level lab research and clinical practice, presented by a high-quality team. Our speaker took us on a ride through the intricate world of CRP levels (C-reactive protein, for the uninitiated) and their role in neuro-immune conditions.

We encountered thought-provoking discussions that challenged our conventional wisdom about assessing neurological conditions.

It encouraged us to rethink and re-evaluate how we approach persistent musculoskeletal pain conditions. The fusion of evidence-based research with clinical implications was consistent throughout.

The segment on generative AI in physiotherapy was fascinating. There's a palpable sense of an impending future where AI plays a significant role in our field. While some might view this with trepidation, I found myself excited by the possibilities. Imagine AI assisting in diagnosis, treatment planning, or even personalised patient programs. The potential to enhance our practice and patient management is enormous. Of course, the key will be integrating these tools while maintaining the human factors that are so crucial to our profession.

The session on degenerative cervical myelopathy was particularly engaging, featuring two brilliant speakers from the UK. Eleanor Dunstan, Consultant Physiotherapist, provided valuable insights into this challenging condition from an assessment and management perspective. I felt a surge of pride when Lianne Wood, representing my home county of Devon, took the stage discussing the evidence that underpins our clinical decisions. Their combined expertise on stage, delivered in a human way when discussing this sometimes complex condition was a testament to the work being conducted in the UK.

Between sessions, we at the MACP were busy with our own exciting initiative. We launched a marketing push for our new 'International MACP membership'. This portfolio route to membership is designed for physiotherapists in countries facing economic difficulties or where university courses have been shut down. The response was overwhelming, with genuine interest from across the globe including the Philippines, Hungary, Slovakia, Cyprus, and Kenya. It's heartening to see how we can extend our reach and support our international colleagues, towards Advanced MSK status.

The coffee breaks and evening gatherings were abuzz with discussions about these topics and more. The energy was apparent as physiotherapists from around the world shared ideas, challenged assumptions, and forged new collaborations.

As I reflect on these two days in Basel, I'm filled with optimism for our MSK profession. Yes, we all face different challenges, but we also have incredible opportunities. 

To my fellow MACP members: prepare for some exciting discussions and initiatives in the coming months. To our international colleagues: we look forward to welcoming you to our community through our new membership route.

Gethin Lynch

Vice Chair, MACP

P.S. Basel, you were the perfect backdrop for this intellectual feast. 

Tim Noblet - IFOMPT rep, MACP

The IFOMPT 2024 conference, held in Basel, Switzerland, revolved around the theme of “crossing bridges.” Participants engaged in exploring the connections between research, clinical practice, education, patient perspectives, and societal needs. This critical reflection aimed to shape the future of musculoskeletal physiotherapy. It was amazing to see so many MACP members leading the profession forward through their research and advocacy activities.

Dr Colette Ridehalgh presenting

Celebrating 50 Years of IFOMPT: Some of the key contributors to the conference

The opening ceremony featured a 50-year celebratory video that articulated the history of IFOMPT, describing the events and evolution of science, technology, cultural, and societal change.

Key Topics Discussed Across the Conference:

• Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Participants delved into the latest research findings and their practical implications for musculoskeletal and manual physical therapy. Discussions included effective treatment approaches, assessment techniques, and patient outcomes.

• Interprofessional Collaboration: Emphasising the importance of collaboration between healthcare professionals, sessions covered interdisciplinary teamwork, communication strategies, and shared decision-making.

• Technology and Innovation: Presentations highlighted advancements in physical therapy technology, such as telehealth, wearable devices, and virtual reality. Experts discussed the potential of these innovations to enhance patient care.

• Global Health and Social Determinants: Attendees examined the impact of social determinants of health on musculoskeletal conditions, discussing health disparities, access to care, and cultural competence.

• Education and Training: Educators and practitioners exchanged ideas on curriculum development, teaching methodologies, and lifelong learning. Workshops focused on enhancing clinical reasoning skills and fostering critical thinking.

The IFOMPT Executive Team

During the conference the IFOMPT Annual General Meeting was held and in summary:

• Name Change: Delegates voted to change the name of IFOMPT to the International Federation of Manual and Musculoskeletal Physical Therapists. This update reflects contemporary practice and emphasises the integration of manual therapy and musculoskeletal care.

• New Executive Committee: Delegates elected a new executive committee dedicated to leading IFOMPT’s initiatives, fostering collaboration, and driving advancements in physiotherapy worldwide.

• Membership Pay Structure: An agreement on a new membership pay structure was reached, ensuring sustainable funding for IFOMPT’s activities. This supports research, education, and advocacy efforts, ensuring efficacy across all nations.

Farewell to President Laura Finucane

A highlight for me was seeing Laura Finucane, the presiding president of IFOMPT, deliver her opening and final speech. The chair of the organising committee fittingly congratulated Laura on her dedication to the profession and IFOMPT. As the conference concluded, so did Laura Finucane's FMACP tenure as President of IFOMPT. 

 

Laura’s speech focused on three themes: where IFOMPT is now, what it has achieved, and where it could be heading next. Notably, IFOMPT has changed its name to the International Federation of Manual and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, moving away from the term “manipulative therapy.” Laura expressed pride in IFOMPT and its adherence to high standards. She also discussed future challenges, including diversity, accessibility, and representation, as the profession navigates the difficulties of an ageing population and increasing social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Laura, your presidency's end marks a moment of deep gratitude for your outstanding leadership and dedication. Your tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our organisation and the field of musculoskeletal physiotherapy.

Your commitment to evidence-based practice, patient care, and professional development has inspired countless physiotherapists worldwide. From your role as vice president to assuming the presidency, you’ve consistently championed excellence and collaboration. We’ve witnessed the impact of your work through IFOMPT’s initiatives, standards, and educational programmes. Your passion for enabling care for all, and advancing the musculoskeletal specialty has elevated our profession.

Laura, thank you for your unwavering service, vision, and kindness. We wish you continued success in your endeavors and look forward to your ongoing contributions to our community.

Welcome to New President Paolo Sanzo

On behalf of the Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered Physiotherapists (MACP), we extend a sincere and enthusiastic welcome to IFOMPT’s new president, Paolo Sanzo, and the new executive committee. We are thrilled to have you lead our global community of dedicated professionals.

Tim Noblet, IFOMPT Representative, MACP