Conference “Topical Issues of Physical Therapy and Prospects for the Development of Rehabilitation in Modern Conditions” at TNMU

The conference “Topical Issues of Physical Therapy and Prospects for the Development of Rehabilitation in Modern Conditions” was held on November 14-15, 2024, at I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University became a significant platform for exchanging experience and knowledge among professionals in the rehabilitation field.

The conference was opened with a welcome speech by the Rector of TNMU, Mykhailo Korda.

Opening Remarks:

TNMU Rector Mykhailo Korda emphasized the importance of physical therapy during wartime and the increasing demand for rehabilitation services. Currently, physicians specializing in physical and rehabilitation medicine, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and other professionals in the multidisciplinary team must pool their efforts, reflect, and make informed decisions to enhance new rehabilitation programs and algorithms for providing rehabilitation services to the population of Ukraine.

Vice-Rector for Research Ivan Klishch stressed the relevance of supporting civilians, military personnel, and internally displaced persons.

The Head of the Department of Emergency and Simulation Medicine, Professor Arsen Hudima, welcomed the forum participants and highlighted the current opportunities in tele-rehabilitation medicine, artificial intelligence, and simulation-based training, which are frequently applied in rehabilitation practices. He emphasized the work of Ternopil National Medical University’s Simulation Center and its use in both the educational and clinical components of higher education across all specialties offered at the university, including the specialties 227 “Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy” and “Therapy and Rehabilitation.”

Plenary Presentations:

Professor Dariia Popovych showcased innovative technologies in education and clinical training for students.

Other speakers covered topics such as modern rehabilitation approaches, telerehabilitation, dual education, and the use of artificial intelligence.

International Participation:

Representatives from Canada and Poland shared practical solutions for rehabilitation, including patient engagement strategies and stress management techniques.

Sectional Meetings:

Over two days, 56 scientific presentations were discussed, addressing issues such as cervical spine syndromes, cardiac rehabilitation, post-traumatic stress disorders, and innovative physical therapy methods.

Workshops:

Participants observed demonstrations of art therapy methods, telerehabilitation practices, and the use of devices for restoring motor functions.

Charitable Initiative:

The 5,000 UAH raised during the event was donated to the Armed Forces of Ukraine to purchase an innovative ShiftWavePro device.

Concluding Remarks:

The event facilitated the development of a multidisciplinary approach in physical therapy, strengthened international cooperation, and improved rehabilitation programs. Special gratitude was expressed to Ukraine’s defenders for ensuring the safe and peaceful conditions in which the conference could take place.