Javascript is disabled

Pre- and Post Congress Course

Pre Course - October 1st

Anna Duberg & Sofie Högström (Sweden) 

”Dance for Health” & “Just in TIME” -  Two Interventions Promotion Health Through Joyful Movement

Come dance with us! This pre-course combines informative presentations with hands-on practical workshops. Participants will explore two RCT-based methods centered on the joy of movement—Dance for Health (DFH) and Just in TIME (JiT) —each introduced through a short lecture highlighting research design and key findings. After each presentation, participants will dive into a practical session, experiencing the principles and techniques of each method: dance for adolescents with internalizing problems and combined dance/yoga for children with FAPDs. The course also provides space for interactive discussions, questions, and reflections on implementation strategies.

Elke Schubert (Sweden)

Hypermobility in Children and Adolescents
 
Children and adolescents with hypermobility-related conditions are increasingly recognized in healthcare. These disorders often cause persistent pain, fatigue, and reduced activity, affecting daily life and participation. Hypermobility spectrum disorder and hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome are connective tissue conditions diagnosed based on symptoms. Physiotherapists frequently encounter these patients, making it essential to have basic knowledge of assessment, treatment, and overlapping conditions to provide appropriate care.
This workshop provides a concise overview of hypermobility-related conditions in children and adolescents. Key areas include diagnostic background, simple clinical assessment of joint mobility using the Beighton and DelMar scales, and an overview of evidence-based training principles. The format combines short lectures with practical demonstrations. Participants will practice joint mobility assessments in pairs and discuss clinical challenges in small groups. Approximately 50% of the session is lecture-based, and the remainder is hands-on.

Josefin Naili & Cecilia Lidbeck (Sweden)

Gait Analysis & Biomechanics

Three-dimensional gait analysis gives detailed descriptions of gait in a laboratory setting. Video-based approaches using standardized observations, structured flowcharts and descriptions make gait assessments accessible for a wide range of clinical settings. In addition, classifications and self-reported questionnaires give information on functioning of the child in an everyday environment. The aim of the course is to give an introduction on gait analysis for clinicians and researchers working with children. More specifically to give an overview of basic concepts on so-called typical gait, and on how to describe gait and walking ability using the framework of International Classification of Functioning and Health (WHO).
Learning objectives are to gain knowledge and understanding of the importance of using a standardized language and structured systems when assessing gait and walking ability of children with childhood onset conditions.

Main content:
·       biomechanical principles for gait analysis
·       observation of gait
·       physical examination
·       instruments to assess gait, gait patterns and walking ability
·       prerequisites for movements and gait
·       interactive exercise and discussion: assessment, and classification of gait from videos on children with e. g. cerebral palsy, and pes equino varus adductus

Bronwen Warner (UK)

Non-Invasive Spinal Electrical (NISE)-Stim for Children with Spina Bifida

Non-invasive spinal cord stimulation (NISE-stim) is an emerging neuromodulation technique that uses electrical impulses to activate neural pathways, enhancing connectivity and neuromuscular function. This therapy shows promise in improving neurological and physical outcomes for individuals with spinal cord damage, including congenital conditions such as spina bifida.
SHINE, the UK’s leading support network for people with spina bifida, offers a NISE-stim service for children, based on the protocol developed by US physiotherapist Gerti Motavalli. The approach is non-invasive, gentle, and designed to complement existing physiotherapy and rehabilitation strategies.
Patient reported key benefits include:
• Improved active range of motion in the lower limbs
• Increased trunk and hip strength, supporting developmental milestones
• Reduced constipation
Secondary patient reported benefits include:
• Improved posture and spinal alignment
• Emergence or increase in lower limb sensory awareness
• Improved circulation
This workshop will explore the theory, logistics, and outcomes of SHINE’s NISE-stim service evaluation. It includes a practical session to answer questions and offer insight into this innovative approach.
Please note: This workshop does not qualify attendees to deliver NISE-stim. It serves as an introduction prior to formal training with Gerti Motavalli

Post Course - October 3rd

Emma Hjalmarsson (Sweden)

Frame Running - early intervention and lifelong exercise

Frame Running is an adapted mobility activity and parasport that enables children and adults with limited walking or running ability to move at speed, enjoy exercise, and reach health-enhancing intensity levels. While widely used for individuals with cerebral palsy, it can benefit anyone with reduced running ability.
This course introduces how a three-wheeled running frame can be used from early intervention to long-term participation in sport, rehabilitation, and everyday activity. We will also highlight its growing role in research, including aerobic testing, exercise physiology, early mobility development, gross motor function, and its effects on physical and mental health and quality of life.
Clinicians and researchers from Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Scotland will share current evidence and insights from ongoing European projects. Through case examples, video, and discussion, participants will learn to identify suitable candidates, adapt equipment, and set meaningful training goals. The course aims to equip participants to introduce or scale Frame Running in their own settings, with attention to clinical reasoning and practical implementation.

Aliisa Lahti (Finland)

Pelvic Health in Children and Adolescents – Why Should We Care?

Up to 20 % of children and adolescents aged 5–18 experience bladder and bowel dysfunctions, such as constipation, incontinence, or even pelvic pain. These issues can place a significant burden on both the child and their caregivers and may persist into adulthood. As pediatric physiotherapists, we have an important role in their care as part of a multidisciplinary team.
This course covers daytime and nighttime urinary incontinence, constipation, abdominal and pelvic pain, and their physiotherapeutic management. You will have the opportunity to try out practical exercises and learn about the current evidence supporting pediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Moving from theory into practice, you will gain methods and tools to address pelvic health in children and adolescents. You will also learn about the specialized methods that can be used in pediatric pelvic floor physiotherapy. By the end of the course, you will understand why pelvic health matters and how you, as a pediatric physiotherapist, can make a difference.