Keynote speakers

Ann Barr, Associate Professor, Physical Therapy Department, Temple University, PA, USA
• Tissue pathophysiology, neuroplasticity and motor behavioral changes in painful repetitive motion injuries
Recent findings of the relationship between repetitive and/or forceful movements and the onset and nature of the resulting pathophysiology of peripheral tissues in animal models will be presented. Evidence for the effects of these changes on central nervous system tissues and on motor behavior will be linked to clinical findings with the aim of suggesting refinements to the examination and management of patients with repetitive motion disorders.

Sean Gibbons, BSc. (Hons) P.T., MSc Erg., MCPA, Director of Kinetic Control Canada; Professional Associate, School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
• Muscle function and a critical evaluation
New insight into muscle function provides modern views on muscle classification. Information regarding muscle function can be attained through several avenues including: anatomy, biomechanics, EMG and radiographic techniques. Useful information regarding muscle function depends on the methodologies used and the correct interpretation of results. Many studies do not provide useful information regarding muscle function, which contributes to controversy. A critical appraisal approach to understanding muscle function will be presented along with evidence to understand some controversial muscles.

Dr Paul Hodges, PhD, NHMRC Senior Research Fellow & Associate Professor, The University of Queensland, Australia
• Why do exercise interventions work for low back pain?
There is increasing evidence that specific exercise interventions are effective in the management of back pain and prevention of back pain recurrence. Conventionally these interventions have been argued to impart their effect by virtue of increasing the stability of the spine and pelvis. This is based on the assumption that pain is due to instability and that clinical benefit can be derived from making the spine more stable. However, is there any evidence for this? Recent research argues that the mechanism for efficacy may be more complex and multifaceted. Improved understanding of mechanisms is likely to lead to more effective interventions.

Dr Scott Lephart, PhD, Director of Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, UPMC Centre for Sports Medicine, Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition, School of Health of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Pittsburgh, USA
• Proprioception and neuromuscular control - the role of proprioception in joint stability and the effect of joint injury and surgery on these mechanisms.

• Proprioception and neuromuscular control in rehabilitation of joint pathology - particularly in relation to the lower limb.

Dr Peter O'Sullivan PhD, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Curtin University of Technology, Perth, Australia
• Classification of lumbo-pelvic pain disorders - why it is essential for management
The majority of lumbo-pelvic pain disorders have no diagnosis leaving a management vacuum. The classification of lumbo-pelvic pain disorders into subgroups is considered one of the greatest challenges to enable the application of specific interventions that are effective in the management of these disorders. This presentation presents an approach to classification of lumbo-pelvic pain disorders that acknowledges the complex and multi-dimension of these disorders. This approach leads to an understanding of the indications and contra-indications for physiotherapy, and highlights ongoing research that supports its validity.

Darren Rivett, Associate Professor, University of Newcastle, Australia
• Adverse effects and the vertebral artery - can they be averted?
An evidence-based approach to averting vertebral artery complications with cervical spine manipulation. The latest preventive strategies, including the use of a Doppler velocimeter, recognition of the dissecting vertebral artery, and avoidance of hazardous manipulative practices, will be discussed in light of recent research. Finally, the question of who should be manipulating, and the related appropriate level of education in manipulative techniques and associated clinical reasoning, will be debated.

Maureen Simmonds, PhD, Professor and Head of School of Health Professions and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
• Measuring and managing, pain and performance.

Dr Michele Sterling PhD, Senior Lecturer, Department of Physiology, University of Queensland, Australia
• Balancing the 'bio' with the psychosocial in whiplash associated disorders
Recent times have seen the emphasis placed on the psychosocial aspects contributing to the development of persistent pain. Evidence will be presented that demonstrates the importance of physical impairments in the form of sensory and motor disturbances as contributors involved in the transition from acute to chronic pain following whiplash injury.

Al Vermeil, M.S & C.S.C.S, President of Vermeil's Sport & Fitness, Inc, Lincolnshire, USA
• High level core stability for explosive power in team sports
Assessing the athlete's functional high load core stability and its relationship to high impact sports. From this assessment, Al will illustrate examples of traditional stability exercises but also the rational for the use of high load weight training and explosive exercises that directly relate to high impact sports and improved performance.