Canadian Physiotherapy Association National Congress 2024

Canadian Physiotherapy Association 2024 National Congress was recently held in Vancouver. UBC Gunn IMS program director, Dr. Lyndal Solomons, has served as chair of the Acupuncture and Dry Needling Division Executive of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association for five years. Senior UBC Gunn IMS instructor Susan Massitti has also served on the executive for five years. Both Lyndal and Susan attended congress representing the Acupuncture and Dry Needling Division along with two other members of the division executive - Karim Hanna, a Gunn IMS-trained physiotherapist, and Shirley Luong.

Susan Massitti, Karim Hanna, Dr. Lyndal Solomons and Shirley Luong representing the Acupuncture and Dry Needling Division at the 2024 National Canadian Physiotherapy Association Congress in Vancouver.

Canada’s Minister of Health, Mark Holland, attended congress to announce the extension of the Canada Student Financial Assistance program to include physiotherapists. He spoke enthusiastically about the contribution physiotherapists make to the health of Canadians and the importance of prevention of poor health rather than reactive medical care.

Elaine Maheu, the recipient of the 2023 Enid Graham Memorial Lecture Award, mentioned in her lecture at congress how valuable her Gunn IMS training proved to be over her physiotherapy career. On request, she recorded a special clip for us, explaining why she has found her Gunn IMS training to be “indispensable”! You can watch the clip below. The Enid Graham Memorial Lecture Award is the most prestigious award that the CPA bestows on a member. The award honours a member of the CPA who has provided outstanding leadership and has made a distinguished contribution to the profession.

Elaine, a dedicated professional for over four decades with a remarkable academic record, has greatly contributed to the growth of the physiotherapy profession on a global scale, specifically in the field of orthopaedics. A trailblazer in manual therapy, she took her knowledge and expertise internationally, conducting courses and training not only in Canada but beyond. Throughout her career, Elaine has proven to be an exceptional leader and advocate for the profession, while remaining a curious student, knowledgeable teacher, and valued peer. As a committed physiotherapist, Elaine’s impacts on the advancement of the profession continue to live on and leave a mark across the globe.​

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