Profiles
Alison Bonnyman
Alison Bonnyman is a physiotherapist with over 40 years experience. Aquatic therapy was integrated early into her practice and pursuit of further skills required coursework in the USA, Switzerland and St.Maarten. Alison is 1 of only 2 therapists in Canada who have completed the Comprehensive 12-day Aquatix Therapy course in Switzerland. Her MSc research was on aquatic exercise and bone geometry in women with vertebral fractures. She has presented research at international conferences. Canadian Aquatic Rehab was founded in 2011 to provide aquatic therapy courses in Canada. Alison is a member of the International Aquatic Therapy Faculty and maintains a practice in Mississauga working out of the community-based therapy pools. She is the co-organizer of the International Conference on Evidence-Based Aquatic Therapy to be held in Toronto April 2026.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Association of International Aquatic Therapy Faculty, Canadian Aquatic RehabDescription of relationship(s): Associate member and co-organizer of IATF conference in Toronto April 2026, Teaching aquatic therapy courses across Canada. I am the Founder of Canadian Aquatic Rehab.
Amanda Veri
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Dr. Amanda Veri is the Manager of the Office of Research Trainees at the University Health Network (UHN). She organizes and executes programs to ensure an exceptional training environment for all ~2000 UHN students and postdocs, including building career and skill development, mentorship, leadership, and funding opportunities. Prior to joining UHN, Dr. Veri completed her PhD in the Department of Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto.
Amr Hassanein
Amr Hassanein is a pharmacist by training and currently serves as the Territory Manager for Coloplast in the Greater Toronto Area, representing the Continence Care portfolio. He is passionate about improving clinical standards of care through innovative technologies and brings over 12 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.
Dr. Andreane Richard-Denis
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Dr. Andréane Richard-Denis is a physiatrist, clinician-scientist, and Full Professor in the Department of Medicine at Université de Montréal. She is Head of the Physiatry Department at Hôpital du Sacré-Cœur de Montréal, a Level 1 trauma center recognized for its expertise in spinal cord injury (SCI). Her research, supported by the FRQS and international networks, focuses on improving early diagnosis and prognosis after SCI. She has developed point-of-care electrophysiological methods, including the ElectroSacroGram (ESG), to provide objective neuro-sacral assessment. She also advances early rehabilitation strategies, such as activity-based therapy, to optimize neurological recovery and quality of life for individuals living with SCI.
Dr. Andresa Marinho Buzelli
I am a registered Physiotherapist with expertise in neurorehabilitation and aquatic therapy, currently working at St. John's Rehab Research Program – Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre with clients living after stroke, traumatic injuries, and limb loss. During my CIHR-funded doctoral program in the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute – University of Toronto, I deep dived into the analysis of postural control in the aquatic environment, studying individuals living with a spinal cord injury or disorder (SCID). My doctoral degree was followed by 5 years exploring aquatic therapy practice post-SCID among rehabilitation professionals and co-designing with end-users the Stroke Toolkit for Aquatic Rehabilitation and Recreation Therapy (STARRT) to increase aquatic therapy uptake post-stroke. Now, as I re-enter the clinical world as a Physiotherapist, I aim to continue developing optimal and feasible clinical approaches and education tools for people experiencing a disability.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): St. Jonh's Rehab Hospital - Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Description of relationship(s): Employee
Andy Schmidt
After graduating with a Kinesiology degree, Andy found employment at Canada's first ABT centre, First Steps Wellness Centre. Shortly after, his parents were in a life-changing motorcycle accident leaving his Mom with a traumatic brain injury. The impact of this accident changed the way Andy saw rehabilitation causing his employment with First Steps Wellness Centre to no longer be just a place of employment but a calling. Andy started First Steps' kinesiology fieldwork program, Parasport training program, community events programs, Community FES Cycling program, and has over 15,000 hours of hands-on experience working with SCI and other neurological conditions. Andy is a proud husband to Emma and loves nothing more than being a dad to his three kiddos.
Angela Mei
Angela Mei is a practicing pharmacist with a keen interest in improving the clinical outcomes and improving healthcare access for individuals with needs in the community. Graduated from University of Toronto with a Honours Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, Angela further pursued training at Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University Toronto with a Masters of Science in Community Health. The focus of her Master's research project is on the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines for individuals with spinal cord injury and disease in the community setting and exploring the potential factors impacting accessibility to the COVID-19 vaccines.
Dr. Anita Kaiser
Dr. Anita Kaiser is a Scientific Associate with the Neural Engineering and Therapeutics Team at KITE, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network. She is an Adjunct Lecturer in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto and Applied Disability Studies at Brock University. Dr. Kaiser completed a BSc in Applied Chemistry and Biology at Toronto Metropolitan University, followed by a MSc and PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Toronto. Her research interests are focused in neurorehabilitation and activity-based therapy in individuals living with spinal cord injury. Dr. Kaiser is the Co-Chair of the Canadian Activity-based Therapy Community of Practice, Research Chair of the Canadian Spinal Research Organization, and founding member of the North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium. She has been living with a spinal cord injury for nearly 30 years and has mentored over 80 individuals with spinal cord injury through SCI Ontario.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Canadian Activity-based Therapy Community of Practice, Canadian Spinal Research OrganizationDescription of relationship(s): Co-Chair, Research Chair
Dr. Anna Ogonowska-Slodownik
Assistant Professor at Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw and Affiliate Scientist at KITE Research Institute in Canada. She coordinates Aquatic Therapy course for physiotherapy students and conduct research. She is the coordinator of the Aquatic Therapy, Exercise and Swimming Lab which aims to improve the use of aquatic setting for rehabilitation and health, and connect researchers around the world. She conducted seminars and workshops on aquatic therapy in national and international master's programs and conferences. She has published chapters in books and articles in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on the use of aquatic therapy in different populations. She is now conducting research on creating aquatic reactive balance training to prevent falls.
Dr. Arrani Senthinathan
Dr. Arrani Senthinathan is a health services researcher and educator with expertise in spinal cord injury, health administrative data, and population health. She has conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Toronto, examining healthcare utilization and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vulnerable populations. Dr. Senthinathan's work integrates data-driven insights to inform clinical practice, policy, and equitable healthcare interventions. She currently is an Assistant Professor at Niagara University and the University of Toronto.
Barry Munro
Barry Munro is the Chief Development Officer of the Canadian/American Spinal Research Organization, which was established in 1984 to fund targeted research to maximize functional recovery and cure paralysis caused by spinal cord injury. Barry also currently holds the position of Treasurer for the North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium, a community led organization which has the mission to bring about unified achievements in research, care, cure, and policy by supporting collaborative efforts across the spinal cord injury community.
Catharine (Cathy) Craven
Cathy Craven, BA, MD, FRCPC. MSc, FASIA, FCAHS Dr. Craven is the University of Toronto/University Health Network (UHN), Cope Family Chair in Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation Health Systems Innovations, Medical Director of the Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Executive Lead of the Pride in Patient Engagement in Research (PiPER) portfolio at UHN, and Senior Scientist at KITE Research Institute. Dr. Craven is a Professor and Clinician Scientist in the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, at the University of Toronto. Her expertise is in health services & systems and the medical rehabilitation of sublesional osteoporosis. Dr. Craven co-Leads of the SCI Implementation and Evaluation Quality Care Consortium. She is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and American Spinal Injury Association and Chair of the Canadian Spinal Cord Injury â€" Rehabilitation Association. www.cravenlab.ca;
Dr. Chan Gao
Dr. Chan Gao is currently a Clinical Associate Professor at University of Michigan. He completed his PhD at McGill University, residency at Vanderbilt University, and fellowship at Ichan School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. His research focuses on preclinical model of spinal cord injury-induced heterotopic ossification.
Dr. Chester Ho
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Dr. Chester Ho is a Professor and the inaugural Spinal Cord Injury Research Endowed Chair at the University of Alberta. He is also the Facility Medical Director for the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital in Edmonton. Dr. Ho is a renowned clinician-researcher with an interest in the rehabilitation and healthcare delivery of persons with spinal cord injury. His research has been funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Craig H Neilsen Foundation and Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, and he has published over 150 peer-reviewed papers in top rehabilitation journals. Dr. Ho aims to improve the quality of life of people with spinal cord injury through integration of his clinical, research and administrative responsibilities and achievements. He was named the 2021 "Champion of Change" by the Canadian Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Association. In 2023, he received the Chinese Canadian Legends Award in Toronto, for his outstanding achievements and contributions to community.
Dr. Damian Manzone
Damian M. Manzone is a Postdoctoral Researcher under the supervision of José Zariffa at KITE - Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - UHN. Damian completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Toronto, his master's degree at the University of British Columbia, and his doctoral degree at the University of Toronto, all in kinesiology and focusing on fundamental sensorimotor control. For his postdoctoral work, Damian has focused on developing augmented reality applications as rehabilitation tools for individuals with cervical spinal cord injury. This includes combining augmented reality technologies with functional electrical stimulation and conducting interviews with individuals with cervical spinal cord injury to assess the perceived meaningfulness and feasibility of these systems.
Dr. David Allison
Dr. Allison is a Scientist at Parkwood Institute Research / Lawson Research Institute as well as an adjunct professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario. His research in the field of psychophysiology explores neuroendoimmune interactions that contribute to depression and chronic pain.
Evan Ballagh
Evan Ballagh BA in Psychology McMaster University MotorMind garage is a program that combines psychology and motorsports together. Our goal of our program is too make motorsports accessible for spinal cord injuries.
Fraser MacRae
Fraser MacRae is a physical therapy student, PhD candidate, and Canada Graduate Scholar at Western University. His research bridges basic and clinical neuroscience, using tools such as non-invasive brain stimulation and imaging to study how brain function changes after injury. As both a clinician and a scientist, Fraser is driven to translate neurophysiological insights into more effective, individualized rehabilitation strategies for people recovering from neurological injury.
COI:
Name of for-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Pacira BioSciences, Inc.Description of relationship(s): Travel support for conference attendance., Co-Investigator on an investigator-initiated trial grant from Pacira BioSciences, Inc.
Garrison Lin
Garrison Lin, BScN, RN, is a Master of Science in Nursing student at Western University and a practicing registered nurse. His research focuses on neuro-rehabilitation and spasticity management in long-term care, with particular interest in improving how evidence is generated and translated into clinical practice. He is currently part of a research team investigating transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) for individuals with spinal cord injury and recently participated in a scoping review examining the current reporting practices in this field. Alongside his academic work, Garrison has clinical experience in general surgery, complex continuing care, and is transitioning into emergency and critical care nursing. He is passionate about advancing rehabilitation research, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, and developing innovative approaches to improve care for individuals living with spinal cord injuries and other complex neurological conditions.
Dr. Hardeep Kainth
Dr. Kainth is a physiatrist and associate clinical professor in the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Alberta. He completed a Spinal Cord Injury Medicine fellowship at the University of Washington and is additionally board certified in Wound Medicine. Dr. Kainth's clinical practice includes spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and spasticity. He is the medical lead of the Spinal Cord Injury and General Neurology Rehabilitation program for the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital and Edmonton Zone. His research interests include the prophylaxis and treatment of heterotopic ossification, acute spinal cord injury management and improving care for patients with pressure injuries. His passion is to elevate the standards of SCI management throughout the continuum of care.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Abbvie, MerzDescription of relationship(s): Speaker, Advisor
Dr. Heather Hong
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Dr. Heather Hong is a research associate at the Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, where she drives research to improve care and outcomes for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Her work focuses on translating evidence into practice, analyzing national registry data from the Rick Hansen Spinal Cord Injury Registry (RHSCIR), and shaping standardized protocols that enhance recovery and equity in SCI care.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Praxis Spinal Cord Institute Description of relationship(s): Employee
Heather Scott
Heather Scott is a National Clinical Liaison at Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, where she combines her clinical expertise as a Registered Nurse with her personal experience of spinal cord injury/disorder (SCI/D) to advance SCI care across Canada. Based near Edmonton, Alberta, Heather is instrumental in Praxis's support of the nationwide implementation of the new SCI Standard at RHSCIR sites. Heather's leadership bridges clinical practice, operational strategy, and advocacy. Committed to equity and excellence, she works to ensure every Canadian living with SCI has access to standardized, evidence-based care. Her philosophy centers on innovation and equal opportunity, fostering improvements in SCI research and care, and inspiring communities through her dedication and lived experience.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Praxis Spinal Cord Institute
Dr. Hope Jervis-Rademeyer
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Dr. Hope Jervis-Rademeyer is an Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan and a physical therapist. She obtained a PhD in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Toronto in 2022 and a Master of Physical Therapy from the University of Saskatchewan in 2017. Her research interest is in the clinical translation of neurorestorative approaches (i.e., brain-computer interface, epidural stimulation, exoskeleton, activity-based therapy) to rehabilitate individuals with neurological conditions, with a focus on spinal cord injury (SCI). Currently, her research also develops processes (i.e., clinical practice guidelines, national SCI model of care) to facilitate implementation of these approaches. Dr. Jervis-Rademeyer is the creator and co-host of the podcast Spinal Moves: Canadian conversations about ABT. She has also produced other videos and podcasts designed to improved people's understanding about topics related to SCI.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): St. Jonh's Rehab Hospital - Sunnybrook Health Sciences CentreDescription of relationship(s): EmployeeDr. Jan Schwab
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Jan Schwab, MD PhD is a physician-scientist and board-certified Neurologist specialized on spinal cord injury (SCI). His main interest is focused on deciphering the underlying pathomechanisms of the maladaptive immune response after SCI. In addition, he has an interest to develop and apply tools to improve prediction of animal models for clinical trials, reduce inherent bias and increase experimental value in SCIresearch.
Janelle Unger
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Janelle Unger is an Assistant Professor in the School of Physical Therapy at Western University and a licensed physical therapist. She is also the Principal Investigator of the RED Neuro Lab (Enhancing Rehabilitation, Experience, and Health Services Delivery for People with Neurological Impairments) at the Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity located within Parkwood Institute in London, ON. Her research focuses on promoting lifelong mobility for people with spinal cord injuries. Her main interests are optimizing gait and balance to provide the foundation for safe mobility and enhancing access to rehabilitation services that support lifelong activity.
Jeff Conway
Jeff Conway lives with a T12 SCI in Newfoundland and Labrador. He advocates for enhanced health outcomes of persons with SCI using a collaborative, evidence-based approach.
John Chernesky
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John Chernesky is the Manger of Praxis Spinal Cord Institute's PLEX Program. With over 30 years of lived experience of spinal cord injury (SCI) since being paralyzed, John has participated in dozens of research studies in addition to being a co-investigator on a number of research projects. He works closely with spinal cord injury PLEX (persons with lived experience of SCI including people living with SCI, their family and friends, PLEX-focused community organizations and advocacy groups) to ensure research is addressing their priorities. His strong connection to the SCI community as well as an international network of people living with SCI brings local, national and international PLEX perspective to the SCI research field. He is recognized as a leader in engagement and integrated knowledge translation and advises funding agencies, regulatory bodies, health systems, academia and industry on their engagement policies and practices.
Dr. Jose Zariffa
Dr. José Zariffa is the KITE Chair in Spinal Cord Injury Research, a Senior Scientist and the Associate Director, Scientific at the KITE Research Institute - Toronto Rehab - University Health Network. He is also an Associate Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto. His research interests focus on neuroprosthetics and technology for upper limb neurorehabilitation, encompassing work in wearable sensors, neural interfaces, electrophysiology, and machine learning. Dr. Zariffa's team was awarded the Grand Prize in the Spinal Cord Rehab Innovation Challenge, a national competition focused on new tools to measure rehab activities and their impact.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Wings for Life Spinal Cord Research Foundation, University Health NetworkDescription of relationship(s): Funded grant for the work described, Inventor on a pending patent related to the work described
Dr. Julio Furlan
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- Non traumatic SCI Course[...]
- Workshop 3B: Analysis of the topographic physiology of the mechanisms of action of functional electrical stimulation therapy: What we know about its mechanisms of action[...]
- Award Winning Abstract Presentations[...]
- Top 5 Articles You Should Read: Advances and Paradigm Shifts in Spinal Cord Injury Research and Rehabilitation & Dave Lostchuck Memorial Research Award [...]
Julio C. Furlan, MD, LLB, MBA, PhD, MSc, FRCPC, FAAN, FASIA is a staff neurologist and a Clinician Investigator in the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the SCI Rehabilitation Program at the Lyndhurst Centre, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, and an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto. He is a trained head and neck surgeon from Brazil, who holds a MBA degree in Health Administration, an MSc degree in Clinical Epidemiology, and a PhD degree in Neuroanatomy.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Craig H Neilsen Foundation, Cervical Spine Research SocietyDescription of relationship(s): PI in research grants
Dr. Kei Masani
Kei Masani is a Senior Scientist at the KITE Research Institute and an Associate Professor in the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto. His research interests are in understanding human movement and movement variability, from the view of neuro-mechanical interaction and sensory-motor integration. Particularly, he focuses on developing accurate assessments and therapeutic tools using functional electrical stimulation for standing, walking and adapted exercise. He received a B.Sc. and a M.Sc. in physical education from the University of Tokyo, and a Ph.D. in physical and health education from the University of Tokyo.
Kirstin Yuzwa
Kirstin Yuzwa is a Research Associate at the St. John's Rehab Research Program at the Sunnybrook Research Institute (Toronto, Ontario) and is the Project Manager for the Home Accessibility Tool-kit Study. Kirstin is a registered Occupational Therapist with clinical experience working in rehabilitation and expertise in executing qualitative and quantitative health and rehabilitation research.
Kristen Walden
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Kristen Walden is currently the Associate Director, Clinical Programs for the Praxis Spinal Cord Institute and a physiotherapist at Vancouver Coastal Health. The focus of her research involvement and clinical practice has been in the area of spinal cord injury (SCI). Clinically, she has practiced in the area of SCI for over 20 years, working with individuals in intensive care, acute care, as well as both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation settings. At Praxis Kristen works on a number of research and best practice initiatives including the Standing and Walking Assessment Tool, the Rick Hansen Spinal Cord Injury Registry (RHSCIR), and the Canadian Activity Based Therapy Community of Practice. She has provided ISNCSCI training for over 200 clinicians and leads the development of a freely available ISNCSCI algorithm and is a member of the American Spinal Cord Injury Associations International Standards Committee.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Praxis Spinal Cord Institute, American Spinal Injury AssociationDescription of relationship(s): Employee, Member of International Standards Commitee
Dr. Kristin Musselman
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- Neuromodulation Course[...]
- Workshop 3B: Analysis of the topographic physiology of the mechanisms of action of functional electrical stimulation therapy: What we know about its mechanisms of action[...]
- Workshop 4A: Task-specific training and why it should be the guiding approach to walking rehabilitation after spinal cord injury: a reminder of how the nervous system learns, re-learns and recovers[...]
Dr. Kristin Musselman is a physical therapist, Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Associate Director of the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto, Senior Scientist with the Neural Engineering and Therapeutics Team at KITE-University Health Network, and Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Multi-morbidity and Complex Rehabilitation. The overarching aim of Dr. Musselman's research is to develop innovative, clinically feasible approaches to restore movement, function and participation for individuals living with complex neurological disease across the lifespan. Dr. Musselman and the SCI Mobility Lab team develop and implement assessments, technologies and interventions that emphasize individualization (i.e. customization to individuals for targeted applications of therapy), self-efficacy and the principles of neuroplasticity (i.e. intensity, challenge, and task-specificity).
Manish Desai
Mr Manish Desai is currently working as a consultant in SCI and Trauma Rehabilitation at London SCIC, Stanmore, UK. He treats approximately 575-600 spinal patients annually together in the NHS and private facilities. His workload includes Traumatic Spinal cord injuries, Spinal tumours causing cord dysfunction and cauda equina syndrome patients. Mr Desai have developed integrated multidisciplinary specialist spinal rehabilitation in-patient services for Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) and MSCC (Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression) patients. He has been currently involved in SCI related research including ImPRESS,DISCUS,and Neuralink trials. He has been appointed as an Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculoskeletal Science, at University College London. He also has been appointed as a regional specialty advisor for rehabilitation medicine, by the Royal College of Physicians, London.
Matthew Heffernan
Dr. Matthew Heffernan is a Postdoctoral Fellow at Unity Health Toronto and a Registered Kinesiologist. He is interested in neurorehabilitation research that focuses on improving mobility for individuals living with neurological impairment. He completed his PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Toronto, where his primary research project explored the use of functional electrical stimulation to enhance reactive balance training for people with incomplete spinal cord injuries.
Merna Seliman
Dr. Merna Seliman is a postdoctoral researcher at Western University. Merna completed her PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at Western University. Her doctoral work focused on exploring the sexual lived experiences and recommendations for intervention design and development for among women with Spinal Cord Injuries using Participatory action research. Merna's research interests include women's health, sexual health, and chronic pain. She's also interested in emotional and psychological well-being in different populations and interventions to promote well-being such as mindfulness-based interventions.
Natasha Benn
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Natasha is a recent PhD graduate from the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto and is currently a postdoctoral fellow within the Grey Centre at Parkwood Institute in London. Her research explores mobility outcomes and interventions for persons with neurological injuries.
Olaleye Olayinka
Olaleye is a study coordinator at the Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Alberta. He is the Provincial Research Coordinator on a provincial project called the CONCENTRIC project and has been actively involved in several initiatives aimed at improving the care experience and outcome for persons with spinal cord injury. With a keen interest in holistic wellbeing, he advocates for an inclusive approach that considers multiple dimensions of wellbeing, including physical, social, and psychological aspects, without privileging one over the others. His particular focus lies in identifying deep generative mechanisms and causal powers that underpin observable events, especially those that sustain institutional/social structures that either constrain or enable human action.
Dr. Sander Hitzig
Sander L. Hitzig is a the Program Research Director and a Senior Scientist at the St. John's Rehab Research Program (Sunnybrook Research Institute). He holds the John C. and Sally Horsfall Eaton Chair in Rehabilitation Research, and is an Associate Professor and Affiliated Scientist in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy and in the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute (University of Toronto) and in the Dalla Lana School of Public Health (University of Toronto).Dr. Hitzig's program of rehabilitation, aging and disability research examines the long-term outcomes of persons aging with a disability and/or other vulnerabilities, which includes: (1) evaluating the impact of disability on health and quality of life; (2) identifying factors that promote health and social wellbeing in the community; and (3) developing evidence-based strategies to optimize the delivery of integrated models of care.
COI:
For-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Sunnybrook Research Institute, International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics Canada, CIHR; AFP Innovation; AGE-WELL NCE; Craig H. Neilsen Foundation; Sunnybrook Hospital; War Amps; AMS Healthcare, University Health Network / University of TorontoDescription of relationship(s): Employer, Principal investigator or co-investigator, Functional Electrical Stimulation Method, Use and Apparatus for Mood Alteration. Granted, Filing Date: 2013 Mar. Patent #: US9259576B2 & Patent #: US20140277309A1
Sandra Mills
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Sandra Mills is the Patient Education and Engagement Lead from University Health Network, Toronto Rehab, Lyndhurst Spinal Cord Rehab Centre. She develops and maintains the spinal cord specific patient education resource – Spinal Cord Essentials, teaches health care providers how to teach and actively engages people with SCI in program initiatives to ensure their voice is represented. Sandra co-leads the Teach-back SCI: Patient Oriented Discharge Strategy. Sandra has a Master of Education in Adult Education and Community Development from University of Toronto and is part of the Program leadership team at Lyndhurst.
Sarah Everhart Skeels
Sarmitha Sivakumaran
Sarmitha Sivakumaran (she/her/hers) focuses on understanding the housing experiences of individuals with spinal cord injury/dysfunction. Her research interests include rehabilitation research, qualitative methodologies, knowledge translation, housing, health policy, and quality of life outcomes.
Shannon Rockall
Shannon is an occupational therapist (BC) and works both clinically and as the BC Regional Clinical Liaison at Praxis Spinal Cord Institute. Her experience includes 25 years of clinical practice focused in SCI rehab. She has comprehensive knowledge in the areas of pressure injury management, complex seating, specialized equipment and management of secondary complications of SCI. Shannon is an educator and has worked extensively providing SCI workshops to clinicians throughout BC and more recently, in Ukraine. Shannon plans to continue to share knowledge with clinicians both nationally and internationally, to enable regional clinicians to meet the complex needs of people living with SCI within their local communities.
Dr. Shirin Tajali
Sujata Sinha
Dr. Sujata Sinha is a Mitacs Accelerate postdoctoral fellow at the Gingras-Lindsay Rehabilitation Institute of Montreal, affiliated with the School of Rehabilitation at the University of Montreal. She recently earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from McGill University and has over five years of experience in human EEG research across academic, and industry settings, including the National Research Council of Canada. Combining neuroscience experience with her previous background in computer science and engineering, Dr. Sinha has contributed to several rehabilitation projects integrating virtual reality technology, EEG, and brain-computer interfaces in the past six years. She is currently leading a project on upper limb recovery in subacute spinal cord injury, which is part of the Clinic for Intensive and Neuromodulation for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (CIME) programâ€"a Living Lab initiative established in 2023 and led by her postdoctoral supervisor, Prof (Dr.) Dorothy Barthélemy.
Dr. Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan
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Dr. Kalsi-Ryan is a Clinician Scientist in the field of neurological rehabilitation with a special interest in upper limb assessment, recovery, neuro-restoration and spine pathology. Her research is oriented to establishing methods to quantify neurological change after injury and studying neuro-restorative methods to enhance and optimize function for those with neurological impairment. She provides education and mentorship across a few University of Toronto undergraduate and graduate programs and serves as a member on a number of National and International Boards. Dr. Kalsi-Ryan is the founder of her own company, which manufactures the GRASSP and she herself, acts as a consultant to device and pharmaceutical companies worldwide.
COI:
Name of for-profit or not-for-profit organization(s): Neural Outcomes, Canadian Physiotherapy Association, GRASSP Description of relationship(s): CEO/CSO, Director - volunteer, Inventor
Dr. Susan Jaglal
Dr. Jaglal is a Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto with cross appointments to the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute and the Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation. She is a Senior Scientist at KITE Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network. She was Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy from 2019 to 2023. Prof. Jaglal is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and a recipient of the Canadian Society for Epidemiology and Biostatistics Service Award. She is the recipient of the Temerty Faculty of Medicine Graduate Teaching Award for Sustained Excellence in Graduate Teaching and Mentorship. Dr. Jaglal's research interests include osteoporosis, spinal cord injury and rehabilitation health services with emphasis on utilization, appropriateness, self-management and knowledge translation. She has published approximately 300 peer-reviewed journal articles
Teri Thorson
Teri Thorson was a support technician for a computer software company and professional dancer before a 1996 motor vehicle crash in Australia left her a tetraplegic. Since then she has created her own fashion line for women that are seated, competed in the 400m event at the 2004 Paralympics, played and coached wheelchair rugby and gave birth to a son who is now 15 years old. Teri lives in British Columbia, Canada and is the Manager of Peer Coaching and Outreach with Spinal Cord Injury BC. She volunteers as a board member of DAWN Canada and President of the BC Wheelchair Rugby Association.
Thomas Walden
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Dr. Thomas P. Walden is a postdoctoral research fellow at the Lyndhurst Centre, part of the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute â€" University Health Network, and a member of the Craven Lab. His research focuses on biomechanics, physiology, and exercise interventions that support rehabilitation and physical activity for individuals living with spinal cord injury and other neurological conditions. Dr. Walden's work examines the impact of innovative approaches, such as blood flow restriction, on gait mechanics, exercise capacity, and rehabilitation outcomes. By bridging biomechanics, exercise physiology, and clinical practice, his research aims to develop safe, effective, and inclusive strategies to improve mobility and health in clinical populations. In addition to his research, Dr. Walden contributes to teaching and mentorship in the Rehabilitation Science Institute and Kinesiology Department at the University of Toronto, supporting the next generation of clinicians and researchers.
Thuvaraha Jeyakumaran
Thuvaraha Jeyakumaran is a Research Associate and Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at Lawson Research Institute, Parkwood Institute. She leads and supports projects focused on best practice implementation in SCI rehabilitation, knowledge mobilization, and improving access to assistive technologies for persons living with disabilities. Her work applies co-design and integrated knowledge translation approaches to meaningfully engage persons with lived experience, clinicians, and researchers in the development of resources, training programs, and implementation strategies. Thuvaraha holds a Master of Management of Applied Science (MMASc) in Global Health Systems from Western University, where she focused on engaging persons with lived experience to inform health interventions. She has presented at multiple national and international conferences, earning recognition for her contributions to knowledge mobilization and the application of health equity frameworks.
Dr. Vanessa Noonan
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Dr. Vanessa Noonan is currently is the Director of Research and Best Practice Implementation at the Praxis Spinal Cord Institute where she oversees the Research and Care Program. She is a physical therapist and practiced clinically in SCI before joining Praxis. During her doctoral degree, she helped initiate the Canadian SCI Registry (RHSCIR) and continues to work internationally to help develop SCI data standards and data sets. At Praxis, Vanessa collaborates with members of the SCI community and Praxis Team to support the development and translation of neuro-restorative therapies and best practices to improve care, health and wellness for people living with SCI.
Viet Vu
Dr. Viet Vu is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia in the Division of Physical Med and Rehab. She subspecializes in Spinal Cord Injury Medicine and is a staff physician and Medical Manager for SCI at GF Strong Rehab Centre in Vancouver, BC. With the support of Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, SCI-BC, the Real Time Virtual Support (RTVS), and the Rick Hansen Foundation, we are excited to launch a SCI Navigation service with an interdisciplinary team to provide expert advice to people living with chronic SCI throughout BC. Dr. Vu leads the provincial Intrathecal Baclofen Clinic through GF Strong and is the Medical Director for BC's Post COVID-Interdisciplinary Clinical Care Network through the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA). Dr. Vu has been on the Board of Directors at BC Rehab Foundation since 2024. She prioritizes accessibility, equity, and quality in healthcare.
Dr. Vivian Mushahwar
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Yasma Ali-Hassan
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Yasma is a physiotherapist and doctoral student at the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute with a Collaborative Specialization in Neuroscience at the University of Toronto. Her current research focuses on the use of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques to improve upright balance in individuals recovering from stroke. In addition to her research, she practices clinically in acute paediatric physiotherapy.
Yinghe Sun
Yinghe (Arthur) Sun is currently a PhD candidate in biomedical engineering at University of Toronto. His currently research focuses on selective peripheral nerve interfaces (PNIs) for improved neuroprosthetic control and neuromodulation interventions. Specifically, he is driven to improve the selectivity of PNIs in neural recordings through deep learning algorithms to facilitate closed-loop stimulations. Yinghe received his Master's degree in biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University. His Master's research topic focused on multisensory prosthesis training in virtual/augmented reality
Program
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Registration + Light Breakfast | |
CIHR Planning and Dissemination (SCI-IEQCC)Satelitte Meeting (Non Conference & by Invitation only)
Queens Quay 1 & 2
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Informal Social and Pre-Conference Registration
Regatta
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Registration
Frontenac Foyer
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RHSCIR Network Meeting (Praxis)Satelitte Meeting (Non Conference & by Invitation only)
Queens Quay 1
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Free Break - No host
Frontenac Foyer
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Neuromodulation CourseNon-invasive neuromodulation for spinal cord injury rehabilitation: Emerging technologies and implementation strategies.
Kristin Musselman/Yasma Ali-Hassan
Queens Quay 1
Kristin E. Musselman Yasma Ali-HassanDavid J. Allison John CherneskyGuillaume CôtéCesar Marquez-ChinElina Nezon Dr. Vanessa NoonanAndrew Schmidt Dr. Shirin Tajali Janelle Unger Kristen Walden
Although lesion size is widely considered to be the most reliable predictor of outcome after CNS injury, lesions of comparable size can produce vastly different magnitudes of functional impairment and subsequent recovery. This neuroanatomical-functional paradox is likely to contribute to the many failed attempts to independently replicate findings from animal models of neurotrauma. In humans, the analogous clinical-radiological paradox could explain why individuals with similar injuries can respond differently to rehabilitation. I describe the neuroanatomical-functional paradox in the context of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and discuss the underlying mechanisms of the paradox. Non traumatic SCI CourseNon-traumatic spinal cord injury: Updates on demyelinating, neoplastic and degenerative diseases of the spine.
Julio Furlan
Queens Quay 2
Dr. Julio FurlanDalia RotsteinEric MassicotteJetan Badhiwala
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Transition
Frontenac Foyer
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Opening Keynote
Kristin Musselman
Queens Quay 1 & 2
Dr. Vivian Mushahwar
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Exhibitors Move In(Vendor Move In)
Frontenac Foyer
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(Day 3) |
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Registration
Frontenac Foyer
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Sponsored Breakfast :Transanal Irrigation (TAI) and Peristeen® PlusUnaccredited Education
Queens Quay 1 & 2
Amr Hassanein
Transanal Irrigation (TAI) and Peristeen | |
Exhibitors Move In(Vendor Move In)
Frontenac Foyer
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Transition & Poster Set Up Time | |
Opening Remarks & Champion for Change Award Presentation
Cathy Craven
Frontenac
Dr. Dalton Wolfe
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Heterotopic Ossification: Point counter point (clinician panel)Canadian Data
Cathy Craven
Frontenac
Manish Desai Fraser MacRaeB. Cathy Craven
UK and Canada have similar health systems and funding models. However, there is considerable clinical equipoise and differences in practice regarding Neurogenic Heterotopic Ossification prevention, detection and management Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
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Networking BreakRefresh
Frontenac Foyer
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Workshop 1A: How to build and deliver a peer-led professional health coaching service for people living with SCIWorkshop 1A
Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan
Frontenac
John Shepherd Sarah Everhart Skeels Barry Arana Alexandria McGlynn Teri Thorson Diana Pernigotti Dr. Sonya Allin Dr. Leslie Carlin Dr. Susan Jaglal
Delivery of peer coaching model for people with spinal cord injuries Session Objectives:
Workshop 1B: Motormind Garage - A fully inclusive and Adaptable MotorSport ProgramWorkshop 1B
Anita Kaiser
Queens Quay 1
Evan BallaghGord Ballagh
They can consider an opportunity in motorsports thats not available to them. Our program is about an adaptable motorsports. Session Objectives:
Workshop 1C: LinkedIn Essentials: Crafting an Effective Profile for Professional SuccessWorkshop 1C
Matt Heffernan
Queens Quay 2
Amanda Veri
A well-constructed LinkedIn profile can create a professional identity and visibility critical for career success. This workshop will guide you through the key elements of building a strong, polished profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and career goals. Learn practical tips to optimize your presence, attract opportunities, and leverage LinkedIn as a powerful networking and career development tool. Session Objectives:
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Lunch break
Frontenac Foyer
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Poster ViewingOdd # Posters
Bay
Odd numbers are presenting their posters | |
SCI SnippetsSCI Snippets
Kei Masani
Frontenac
Mohammad Shushtari Dr. David Allison Dr. Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan Thomas Walden
Mohammad Shushtari - From Smart Exoskeletons to Smarter FES: A New Vision for Personalized FES Gait Training At the end of the snippet, participants will be able to: Share relevant advances in exoskeleton therapy that can be used to augment gait training. Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan - Activity Based Therapy - Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation At the end of the snippet, participants will be able to: Describe the benefits of ABT and TSS for upper extremity function in SCI. David Allison - Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Talk - The presentation will deliver preliminary work on establishing a novel wearable technology designed to improve balance tracking and assessment. At the end of the snippet, participants will be able to: Describe the changes in cause and outcome of a spinal cord injury List different techniques to assessing balance Describe the consistency of a novel wearable technology for balance assessment Apply the use of technology in balance rehabilitation List the opportunities we have to improve testing accuracy Tom Walden - Establishing The Reliability Of An Instrumented Vest To Assess Movement Magnitude Of The Trunk During Static And Dynamic Tasks. Talk - This session will provide an overview of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) and its emerging role in clinical practice. We will explore its applications and potential benefits for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), examine proposed mechanisms of action, and critically evaluate the current evidence base, including limitations in research. Finally, we will identify key barriers to implementation and discuss practical strategies for integrating taVNS into clinical settings. At the end of the snippet, participants will be able to: Describe transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), its clinical applications, and potential benefits in spinal cord injury (SCI). Discuss potential mechanisms of action underlying taVNS. Evaluate current evidence and limitations in taVNS research. Identify key barriers and strategies for implementing taVNS in clinical practice. Session Objectives:
Workshop 2A: Co-designing an accessible housing tool-kit with the spinal cord injury/dysfunction communityWorkshop 2A
Damian Manzone
Queens Quay 1
Dr. Sander Hitzig Kirstin Yuzwa Sarmitha Sivakumaran
Background/Objectives: The housing needs of the spinal cord injury / dysfunction (SCI/D) community are not being adequately met due to a lack of accessible housing stock and lack of finances to modify homes, challenges in communicating with housing providers about their needs or obtaining information about available housing units. Methods/Overview: This workshop will provide an overview of a Canada wide national study to inform the co-design of an accessible SCI/D housing tool-kit, which includes results of: a) a scoping review on housing post-SCI/D (n=36 studies); b) a qualitative study on the housing needs and priorities of the SCI/D community (n=74 people with SCI/D; n=5 family caregivers; n=19 professionals); and c) a national cross-sectional survey (N=78 persons with SCI/D) on the influence of housing on the health and wellbeing of persons with SCI/D. Results: The scoping review reported on studies that examined housing issues related to accessibility (n=33), acceptability of housing (n=32), availability (n=25), adequacy (n=24), affordability (n=14), and awareness (n=13). The qualitative study highlights several challenges persons with SCI/D encounter with obtaining appropriate housing, whereby those who are unable to locate homes experience 'hidden' homeless or rely significantly on family members to navigate access to spaces in their homes. The majority of survey respondents (63%) reported an accessible housing need. Conclusions: Following the presentation of the results (30 minutes), workshop attendees will participate in a 30-minute facilitated discussion on key findings and to provide feedback on what should be included in an SCI/D accessible housing tool-kit. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
Workshop 2B: Integrating ISNCSCI into clinical care using innovative tools, advanced technologies, and interactive learningWorkshop 2B
Dalton Wolfe
Queens Quay 2
Kristen Walden Dr. Heather Hong Dr. Andreane Richard-Denis
This interactive workshop combines expert presentations with audience engagement through live polling and discussion. It begins with an overview of ISNCSCI's clinical relevance across SCI populations, followed by a presentation of national data from the Rick Hansen Spinal Cord Injury Registry (RHSCIR) on current ISNCSCI use in Canadian clinical settings. Participants will then explore new tools and resources, including:
The session concludes with an interactive Q&A, where attendees will discuss implementation challenges and contribute ideas for future tool development. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
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Transition
Frontenac Foyer
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Workshop 3A: Teach-back SCI: Patient oriented discharge strategy (PODS) - 10-year review and reflectionsWorkshop 3A
Cesar Marquez Chin
Queens Quay 1
Heather Flett Sandra Mills
Through use of Toronto Rehab's clinical best practice process and ongoing QI cycles, PODS has remained a standard of care in our program, evolving with changes such as new models of care, the COVID-19 pandemic, patient flow pressures and staffing changes. Over this 10-year period, Teach-back SCI PODS has been completed with over 3000 inpatients with SCI during the last week of their inpatient rehabilitation admission. Completion rates have ranged from 90-98% throughout this 10-year period. Reasons for not completing PODS are regularly monitored and addressed. Our key challenges for sustaining PODS have included new staff orientation, neutral facilitator recruitment, PODS scheduling processes, transition from paper to electronic health record and managing complex discharge issues. The workshop will provide examples of strategies used, changes made, and ongoing areas of focus going forward. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
Workshop 3B: Analysis of the topographic physiology of the mechanisms of action of functional electrical stimulation therapy: What we know about its mechanisms of actionWorkshop 3B
Hope Jervis-Rademeyer
Queens Quay 2
Dr. Julio Furlan Dr. Kristin Musselman Dr. Kei Masani Dr. Jose Zariffa
This workshop will (1) describe the guiding principles for how functional electrical stimulation can be combined with motor training to promote motor recovery; and (2) discuss the potential mechanisms of FEST when applied for rehabilitation of upper or lower extremity in individuals with SCI/D. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
Award Winning Student PresentationsAward Winning Student Presentations
Lovisa Cheung
Frontenac
Natasha Benn Merna Seliman Angela Mei Garrison Lin
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Networking BreakVendor Move-In
Frontenac Foyer
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Poster ViewingOdd # Posters
Bay
Odd numbers are presenting their posters | |
Workshop 4A: Task-specific training and why it should be the guiding approach to walking rehabilitation after spinal cord injury: a reminder of how the nervous system learns, re-learns and recoversWorkshop 4A
Julio Furlan
Queens Quay 1
Dr. Sarah Donkers Dr. Kristin Musselman
Workshop 4B: Integrating the new people-centred spinal cord injury rehabilitation program standard across the care continuumWorkshop 4B
Andrea Brown
Queens Quay 2
Heather Scott Dr. Vanessa Noonan John Chernesky Peter Athanasopoulos Shannon Rockall Jeff Conway
A new Canadian Standard for accrediting facilities that provide SCI care was finalized in February 2024. Developed through a rigorous process with significant input from persons with lived experience (PLEX) of SCI, it aims to improve patient experiences, enhance functional recovery, and ensure optimal health outcomes through evidence-based care strategies. The People-Centred Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Rehabilitation Program Standard ("the Standard") is a comprehensive framework for delivering safe, effective care throughout the care continuum. It differs from previous SCI Acute and Rehab Standards by:
After completing this workshop, participants will be able to:
Methods/Overview: The workshop will feature knowledgeable speakers who will highlight key changes in the Standard and showcase initiatives that align. Active participation will be achieved by polling the audience, question-and-answer periods and a facilitated large group interactive knowledge-sharing session. Participants: This workshop is for PLEX and SCI healthcare providers/administrators. Results: This workshop will provide participants with ideas on how to champion use of the new Standard and provide examples on how to change practice and improve patient outcomes. Conclusion: The Standard is ready for use, and implementation will help SCI Programs transform care through an integrated, people-centred approach. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
Workshop 4C: From simple podcast to comprehensive training course: developing accessible evidence-based educational resources using new media technologiesWorkshop 4C
Nicole Cesca
Frontenac
Natasha Benn Thuvaraha Jeyakumaran Dr. Anita Kaiser Dr. Dalton Wolfe Dr. David Dolbow Dr. Hope Jervis-Rademeyer
Clinicians across Canada must manage shorter patient stays, competing priorities, and growing caseloads, all of which limit the time available to review research evidence. This may be one reason why activity-based therapy (ABT), a newer approach targeting neurorecovery for spinal cord injury (SCI), may have limited implementation within Canada. This participatory workshop will describe the process of creating a series of educational resources using evidence-based new media technologies (e.g., podcasts, videos) with ABT as a case example. Design/Overview: This interactive workshop is geared towards clinicians, individuals living with SCI, caregivers, researchers, and others interested in exploring new media technologies for evidence-based education. Using the Kern's approach to curriculum development we will introduce the ABT educational series. This series is conceptualized as an evolution from the initial podcast to video series to education modules, as part of an inclusive and accessible training course. Results/Findings: The expected outcomes from the workshop are: 1) introduce various new media technologies as part of evidence-based practice, 2) understand how new media technologies can enhance accessibility, sustainability, inclusion, and evidence-based practice, 3) identify the Kern's framework steps for developing an educational series, and 4) learn the benefits and limitations of various new media technologies, and how to pick the most appropriate one through open discussion. Conclusion: The ultimate goal of this workshop is for participants to explore new media technologies and to understand how they can be purposefully adapted to enhance accessibility, sustainability, and inclusion for an educational series curriculum. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
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Transition to ReceptionQuick refresh | |
Networking Reception with VendorsAppetizers with the vendors
Frontenac Foyer
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(Day 4) |
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Registration & Coffee(not a full breakfast)
Frontenac Foyer
Jan SchwabKeynote Presentation
Cathy Craven
Frontenac
Dr. Jan Schwab
Although lesion size is widely considered to be the most reliable predictor of outcome after CNS injury, lesions of comparable size can produce vastly different magnitudes of functional impairment and subsequent recovery. This neuroanatomical-functional paradox is likely to contribute to the many failed attempts to independently replicate findings from animal models of neurotrauma. In humans, the analogous clinical-radiological paradox could explain why individuals with similar injuries can respond differently to rehabilitation. I describe the neuroanatomical-functional paradox in the context of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) and discuss the underlying mechanisms of the paradox. Session Objectives:
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Award Winning Post-doc PresentationsAward Winning Post-doc Presentations
Janelle Unger
Frontenac
Dr. Damian Manzone Dr. Shirin Tajali Dr. Arrani Senthinathan
Workshop 5A: Spinal cord injury heterotopic ossification workshopWorkshop 5A
Hope Jervis-Rademeyer
Queens Quay 1
Dr. Hardeep Kainth Dr. Chan Gao
We will explore the potential mechanism of HO formation and review the literature for prophylaxis and treatment of HO. We will also be discussing potential treatment options. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
Workshop 5B: Effective communication strategies for complex clinical settingsWorkshop 5B
Elina Nezon
Queens Quay 2
Sandra Mills
This evidence-informed workshop will highlight components of clinician-patient encounters that can be challenging for both parties. Participants will explore health literacy, plain language, teach-back, context-sensitive communication, and needs-based learning assessment in a fun, interactive environment. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
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Networking break with VendorsTime with exhibitors
Frontenac Foyer
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Workshop 6A: Aquatic therapy for spinal cord injury/disease rehabilitation: An approach for the recovery of mobility and functionWorkshop 6A
Thomas Walden
Queens Quay 1
Dr. Anna Ogonowska-Slodownik Dr. Andresa Marinho Buzelli Alison Bonnyman
Background/objectives: Aquatic therapy is a holistic and effective therapeutic approach that addresses the goals of people living with a spinal cord injury or disease (SCID) who have difficulty functioning on land. The hydrodynamics of the aquatic environment offload body weight with buoyancy while the viscosity resists movement in all planes. The hydrostatic pressure aids in blood circulation and supports the body, providing a sense of safety for individuals with SCID. Although aquatic therapy post-SCID has shown preliminary promising clinical benefits, there is a lack of aquatic therapy uptake/practice for this population. Methods/overview: This workshop will combine lecture-style knowledge dissemination with video examples and interactive group discussions. It will explore the scientific rationale, clinical applications, and practical considerations for implementing aquatic therapy for individuals post-SCID. We will examine how the aquatic environment can facilitate safe, high-quality practice of aquatic therapy and demonstrate how aquatic therapy is a feasible approach through clinical cases and evidence-based research. Results: By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to: 1) Understand how to apply hydrodynamics in practice to restore function and mobility in individuals post- SCID; 2) Identify barriers and facilitators to aquatic therapy implementation in the SCID continuum of care; 3) Learn about traditional and novel aquatic therapy methodologies that can aid in SCID rehabilitation. Conclusion: As the field of rehabilitation continues to embrace evidence-based treatment strategies post-SCID, incorporating aquatic therapy in clinical practice and research studies offers an opportunity for people with to enhance the living experience of people with SCID. Aquatic therapy is a valuable rehabilitation tool that enhances mobility and function. Session Objectives:
Target:
CanMEDS:
COI:Name of for-profit or not-for-profit organization(s) : Association of International Aquatic Therapy Faculty, Canadian Aquatic Rehab Description of relationship(s) : Associate member and co-organizer of IATF conference in Toronto April 2026, Teaching aquatic therapy courses across Canada. I am the Founder of Canadian Aquatic Rehab. Workshop 6B: Transitions in SCI care from inpatient rehabilitation to community - lessons from Alberta and opportunities across CanadaWorkshop 6B
Sarah Donkers
Queens Quay 2
Dr. Chester Ho Katharina Kovacs-Burns Olaleye Olayinka
There are significant gaps in the transitions-in-care from inpatient rehabilitation to community. The CIHR-funded "CONCENTRIC" ("CONnecting and Coordinating an Enhanced Network for TRansitions In Care") project uses a community-based participatory research approach to address these gaps in Alberta. We will present the recommendations from the CONCENTRIC project and discuss how they may align with the needs in other jurisdictions. Additionally, we have designed a validated tool called the "My Experience Survey" which can be used as a self-evaluation and communication tool to support the transitions-in-care experiences for persons with SCI. This presentation will describe the contents of this survey and discuss the opportunities in its use in future. Session Objectives:
Award Winning Abstract PresentationsAward Winning Abstract Presentations
José Zariffa
Frontenac
Dr. Julio Furlan Dr. Heather Hong Dr. Andreane Richard-Denis Yinghe Sun Dr. Hope Jervis-Rademeyer
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Poster ViewingEven # Posters
Bay
Even numbers are presenting their posters | |
Networking Reception with VendorsAppetizers with the vendors
Frontenac Foyer
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Sit Down Buffet with VendorsNetworking Lunch (sit down and B2B)
Frontenac
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Top 5 Articles You Should Read: Advances and Paradigm Shifts in Spinal Cord Injury Research and Rehabilitation & Dave Lostchuck Memorial Research AwardPlenary
Cathy Craven
Frontenac
Viet Vu Dr. Chester HoBrandon Lieu Teresita Risopatron Dr. Julio Furlan
This session distills five pivotal recent publications that are redefining the understanding and management of spinal cord injury across the continuum of care. Each article highlights a unique dimension of innovation and clinical relevance:
Participants will gain insights into how these landmark studies inform clinical practice, guide multidisciplinary decision-making, and influence emerging standards for SCI research and rehabilitation. The session encourages reflection on how evolving evidence can translate to improved patient outcomes and equity in care delivery. Session Objectives:
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Poster ViewingEven # Posters
Bay
Even numbers are presenting their posters | |
Networking Break with VendorsExhibit Hall
Frontenac Foyer
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Workshop 7A: Meaningfully engaging people with lived experience in researchWorkshop 7A
Lovisa Cheung
Queens Quay 1
Dr. Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan Barry Munro Dr. Vanessa NoonanEmily Giroux
This workshop will explore the importance of meaningful engagement with people who have lived experience (PLEX) in research. Participants will learn why PLEX engagement is essential, how to effectively integrate it into research practices, and what tools and approaches can support successful collaboration between researchers, funders, and individuals with lived experience. Through presentations and group discussion, attendees will examine current resources, identify gaps in existing processes, and consider strategies to move beyond tokenistic involvement. By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how to strengthen partnerships and improve the overall impact of PLEX engagement in research. Session Objectives:
Workshop 7B: Reimagining Rehabilitation: Current Practices and Considerations Following Peripheral Nerve Transfer Surgery in Cervical Spinal Cord InjuryWorkshop 7B
Anita Kaiser
Queens Quay 2
Élie BoghassianJuliana Larocerie-SalgadoSamantha LauParvin EftekharJana Dengler
Workshop 7C: Oral Presentations Selected from the PostersWorkshop 7C
Kristin Musselman
Frontenac
Sujata Sinha Matthew Heffernan Cathy Craven
Sujata Sinha, Plex Engagement In Research
The workshop will review the importance of PLEX engagement in SCI research. We will also provide the what, where, when and HOW to engage PLEX Dr. Matthew Heffernan,
This presentation examines the use of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to augment Reactive Balance Training (RBT) for individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury. Our randomized trial found that while both RBT+FES and RBT alone significantly improved balance and reduced fall risk, adding FES provided no additional benefit. This key finding demonstrates that neuromodulation is not universally effective and its application requires careful consideration. Dr. Cathy Craven, The rising prevalence of sacral pressure injury at rehabilitation admission. Highlight the rising prevalence of sacral pressure injury at rehab admission and to discuss strategies to reduce pressure injury related morbidity and mortality Session Objectives:
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Transition(Vendor Move out)
Frontenac Foyer
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Lived Experience KeynoteKeynote Presentation
Kristin Musselman
Frontenac
Peter Athanasopoulos
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Closing Remarks & Kent Bassett Spiers Award
Kristin Musselman/Cathy Craven
Frontenac
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