Programme

Abstract:
In recent years, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques have emerged as promising interventions for neurorehabilitation due to their non-invasive nature, ease of application, and potential for standardized clinical protocols. Among the various NIBS techniques, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) have been the focus of extensive research. We will introduce their current clinical application situation.

Abstract:
Neuro-rehabilitation for children with cancer has great significance given the growing share of children who survive cancer but suffer lasting functioning consequences. The topic was the focus of the recently released WHO package of rehabilitative interventions. The contextual adaptation of these recommendations has great practical relevance, especially when comparing LMI settings with settings in countries with high resources. The real world experience in a major paediatric neuro-oncological hub and the ongoing cutting edge sperimentations on methodology and neurophysiological basis of damage and recovery will offer a prospective view with indications for way forward in this critical field.

Abstract:
Addressing motivation in order to increase the intensity and duration of therapies in post stroke inpatient rehabilitation is a rapidly developing, still challenging field. The symposium will give an overview on recent developments in the field of motivation research (Dana Boering) and emphasize recent work on boosting the reward system (Andreas Luft), both in animal research and recent successful clinical trials, emphasizing positive results of recent work.

Abstract:
Stroke remains the leading cause of adult disability, with upper extremity hemiparesis profoundly limiting independence and quality of life. Current clinical assessments rely on ordinal scales such as FMUE, ARAT, and WMFT, lack sensitivity and mechanistic account of the impairment and present statistical and ecological validity challenges. This symposium will address the urgent need for objective, high-resolution methods to quantify and phenotype motor impairments and recovery after stroke. We will highlight kinematic analysis as a promising approach capable of capturing both movement quality without ceiling effects and decomposing hemiparesis into its core components (weakness, synergies, dexterity loss, compensations). Advances in markerless 3D motion capture and AI-based pose estimation now enable practical and scalable collection of kinematic data, and our group has recently assembled the largest-ever 3D kinematic dataset in stroke patients. Preliminary analyses of this dataset demonstrate the superiority and power of kinematic metrics compared to standard scales, showing higher sensitivity to impairment and recovery. We also demonstrate that 3D kinematics allows distinguishing the effect of weakness from intrusion of pathological synergies and spasticity. To further advance the field, our work introduces innovative analytical frameworks—combining trajectory shape analysis, machine learning, and statistical modeling—to distill complex kinematics into concise, interpretable clinical metrics. Our methodological approach allows both quantification of motor impairment and the decomposition of hemiparesis into its core components, providing a mechanistic insight to guide personalized therapy. The session will present new pipelines, validated tasks, and open-source tools for widespread adoption. Ultimately, we aim to establish kinematic analysis as a superior, clinically meaningful endpoint for rehabilitation research and practice, laying the foundation for more precise, effective, and personalized stroke therapies.

Abstract:
The latest evidence on technology-assisted therapy will be presented at the symposium. Drawing on clinical trials involving patients with neurological conditions, the presentation will demonstrate how these technologies can be integrated into a multidisciplinary framework to intensify and optimise the rehabilitation process.Firstly, we will examine the potential of early upper limb robotic-assisted therapy (UL-RAT) using a whole robotic arm exoskeleton and its possible relationship with neural plasticity. Next, with a focus on gait and balance, we will examine how robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) can facilitate safe verticalisation, sensorimotor stimulation, and repetitive, taskspecific gait training to promote neuroplasticity. Finally, we will examine how effective an interactive, intensive gait training (IIGT) protocol is at enhancing endurance and community participation, and at reducing the cost of walking, compared to conventional gait rehabilitation.

Abstract:
The Telerehab SIG of the WFNR has engaged in a program of research over the last four years to bring cohesion and structure to telerehabilitation research and practice. Three working groups were formed by SIG members and specific work undertaken, with progress and some results to be reported at this congress.

Working group 1: Collation of telerehabilitation guidelines and rapid review of key areas of evidence for teleneurorehabilitation. A systematic review has been registered and the team have reviewed 113 articles. Data extraction has included recommendations related to telerehabilitation according to established criteria. The AGREE II and NHRMC Levels of evidence have been used to assess methodological quality and level of evidence. Results of this review will be presented.

Working group 2: Towards a Global Core Outcome Set for Telerehabilitation: Evidence and Consensus. The aim of Working Group 2 is to establish a consensus on core outcome measures for telerehabilitation that will provide clinicians and researchers with a harmonized framework for telehealth practice and scientific inquiry across the globe. In Phase 1 the Working Group 2 is conducting a scoping review to map the use of patient reported outcome measures used in rehabilitation for persons with stroke and traumatic brain injury. Full text screening is ongoing with a manuscript due by end of November 2025. Phase 2 will be a scoping review on outcome measures used in telerehabilitation. A manuscript is due by March 2026. By October 2026, both reviews will be completed, with preliminary results from Delphi consensus rounds available. The roundtable session offers a unique opportunity for engaging with the evidence, shape the ongoing consensus process, and ensure that the proposed outcome set reflects diverse international perspectives.

Working group 3: Consensus on a definition of Telerehabilitation for neurorehabilitation. The aim of this research was to have consensus upon a working definition of telerehabilitation which reflects contemporary telerehabilitation practice. An e-Delphi approach was employed to be as inclusive as possible and strengthen the decision-making process for reaching a consensus. After three rounds of review and editing, the Telerehab SIG reached a consensus in January 2025 on the agreed definition. This comprehensive definition of telerehabilitation includes a formal definition, an abbreviated version and a lay version, each with distinct purposes. A description of the scope of telerehabilitation is included, as well as an overview of the various modes of telerehabilitation. It is anticipated that this definition of telerehabilitation may assist researchers, clinicians, advocates and policy makers in a range of purposes. Each working group leader will present the work (15 mins + 5 mins Q&A). The remains 15 mins will be used to discuss next steps for the working groups and Telerehab SIG.

Abstract:
Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, yet new breakthroughs are redefining treatment across the entire continuum of care. Recent evidence demonstrates that endovascular thrombectomy can provide meaningful benefits even for patients with large infarcts and extended time windows, shifting long-standing paradigms in acute stroke management. Advances in pharmacological strategies are enhancing neuroplasticity and optimizing recovery, translating discoveries from the laboratory into tangible clinical outcomes. At the same time, growing evidence from global surveys highlights both the potential and the challenges of complementary and alternative medicine in supporting stroke survivors, underscoring the need for rigorous trials and equitable access. In the rehabilitation domain, best practice guidelines are being strengthened with innovative approaches such as ultrasound guided calcification and fibrosis removal with sterile water injection—a regenerative intervention that targets maladaptive sensitization cycles, reduces spasticity and pain, and restores function without surgery or drugs. Together, these advances present a comprehensive and forward-looking vision of stroke treatment, integrating acute interventions, pharmacological enhancement, rehabilitation, and complementary approaches. By weaving these modalities into coherent care pathways, the future of stroke management holds the promise of reducing disability, improving quality of life, and addressing persistent inequities worldwide.

Abstract:
This session explores the clinical use of digital technologies in neurorehabilitation for patients with physical and cognitive deficits. These technologies offer benefits such as continuous monitoring, real-time feedback, and personalized interventions. Research has shown the clinical feasibility of certain devices for specific populations, but a gap exists between product development and real-world clinical application. Stroke survivors, for instance, often struggle with self-initiation and engagement, highlighting the need for direct supervision from therapists. Despite the potential benefits, digital technology adoption in neurorehabilitation has been slower than in other sectors like business and education. Challenges such as cost-effectiveness and unequal access to technology persist across regions. This session will present a framework for integrating digital tools into clinical practice, focusing on both research and application. Key challenges and solutions will be discussed, particularly the irreplaceable role of therapists. Participants will learn how to incorporate digital technologies into the care of stroke and other neurological patients and overcome barriers to effective clinical implementation.

Abstract:
Locomotion comprises different modes of mobility: e.g. initiation of gait, posture control, different gait patterns during slow explorative gait, steady gait at a self selected or maximal speed, running or climbing over obstacles. Core aspects of gait control can be influenced by auditory signals: rhythm, speed, initiation and variability and indirectly also basic parameters such as posture, stride length and cadence. Neurologic Music Therapists use this access to gait control to further the development of walking in (healthy) children and during rehabilitation of gait in neurological patients e.g. during PD and stroke.

The aim of this symposium is to give an overview

• a) about gait control and those aspects of gait control which are amenable to auditory based interventions in health and disease
• b) how such interventions may work in healthy subjects and neurological patients (PD, stroke)
• c) provide practice examples from different countries how specific interventions can be implemented by Neurologic Music Therapists during neurological rehabilitation 
• d) critically appraise the evidence for the use of different interventions based on the principles of Neurologic Music Therapy in patients after stroke and with PD.

In summary, we will show how neurologic music therapy can address specific aspects of locomotion and gait control by specific interventions in healthy subjects and patients after stroke and with PD. We will illustrate this with practice examples from different countries.

Abstract:
The purpose of this scientific symposium is to describe the cutting-edge of developing technologies aimed at improving neurorehabilitation strategies by understanding and exploiting sensory and perceptual contributions to motor control. Somatosensory impairments are common across several diagnoses, but receive limited evaluation and intervention during neurorehabilitation, despite negatively impacting functional movement, treatment outcomes, and quality of life for patients. Emerging biosensing technologies that emphasize non-invasive, real-time, high-fidelity recording of biosignals are creating new opportunities to identify and treat sensory impairments that contribute to movement dysfunction. This symposium will be comprised of a brief introduction highlighting the current gaps in knowledge and opportunities for advancement in neurorehabilitation regarding the sensory-perceptual mechanisms necessary for successful goal-directed movement (Borich). Then, the primary scientific talks will cover novel biosensing technologies that are currently being developed and deployed to: 1) measure multi-plane lower-limb neuromuscular control that can be used as a biofeedback tool to improve sensory-motor function across rehabilitation applications (Lee), 2) quantify somatosensory function using miniaturized electromechanical haptic skin interfaces that form the basis for sensory augmentation systems (Flavin), and 3) monitor health in realtime within the home and guide point-of-care interventional therapies using wearable and implantable soft bioelectronics (Kim). There is a substantial need to increase neurorehabilitation clinicians’ and scientists’ awareness of emerging, disruptive technologies that hold promise for improving symptom detection and delivering biologically-informed interventions that are effective. This symposium is innovative as it brings together experts from distinct yet complimentary disciplines that share a common interest in developing translational biosensing technologies that improve cross-cutting diagnostics and neurorehabilitation strategies. To further increase impact, the panel will engage the audience throughout the session by posing thought-provoking questions to foster a robust exchange of ideas during the dedicated audience discussion period at the end of the symposium.

Abstract:
This round table will bring together leading experts to discuss electrophysiological biomarkers that advance stroke rehabilitation. Presentations will span EEG, TMS, and corticomotor coherence-based approaches to assess motor impairment, predict recovery, and guide therapy. Dr. Cramer will provide an overview of the current landscape and translational relevance of these biomarkers. Dr. Kim will highlight EEG-derived metrics, including coherence and connectivity, from both resting-state and task-based paradigms. Dr. Fong will introduce TMS-EEG measures reflecting cortical reactivity and reorganization. Dr. Chang will focus on biomarkers predicting response to noninvasive cortical stimulation such as tDCS and rTMS. Dr. Stinear will present evidence for TMS-based biomarkers that inform prognosis and therapy goal selection. A panel discussion will follow to synthesize findings and promote clinical translation. Audience participation will be encouraged to explore future research directions and collaboration. This session aims to enhance the integration of neurophysiological biomarkers into personalized stroke rehabilitation.

Abstract:
This scientific symposium aims to explore the novel developments and clinical applications of robot-assisted rehabilitation for neurological patients. The purpose of the session is to provide an in-depth overview of how robots are advancing functional recovery in both upper and lower limb rehabilitation. There is a critical need to address the growing demand for evidence-based rehabilitation tools that can support personalized, intensive, and task-specific training. Robotic rehabilitation represents a transformative approach that integrates engineering innovation with clinical practice. The symposium will showcase how these technologies can fill gaps in conventional therapy, particularly in resource-limited and aging societies. By presenting experiences across three Asian countries, the session emphasizes regional innovation and global relevance. Overall, this symposium will impact the field by advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and inspiring new directions in technology-driven neurorehabilitation.

Abstract:
This symposium will bridge cutting-edge neuroscience with clinical rehabilitation, offering a truly multidisciplinary perspective on recovery. We will highlight the critical role of cognitive-motor integration in determining real-world function after neurological injury and disease. The session addresses a timely and urgent question: how can we move from mechanistic insights to interventions that truly matter for patients’ daily lives? Innovative methods for assessing and training cognition and motor function in tandem will be presented, including digital and lifestyle approaches. We will showcase novel outcome measures that capture meaningful change beyond the laboratory, directly in patients’ real-world environments. Through compelling case examples, the symposium will demonstrate how cognitive-motor dual-tasking can be used to build cognitive reserve and optimize recovery. The presentations will cover diverse neurological conditions—MS, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease—offering broad translational impact. By combining insights across psychology, neuroscience, physiotherapy, clinical neurology and philosophy, the symposium offers unique added value. We will end with concrete calls to action, defining strategies to shape the future of neurorehabilitation. Participants will leave inspired with new tools, collaborations, and perspectives to advance patient-centered, real-world rehabilitation.

Abstract:
Cerebral palsy (CP) is due to damage to brain during birth or in infancy. Approximately 70% of children with CP learn to walk, unfortunately , around half of them loose their ability to walk in their adult life. This has a negative impact on health, social life, ability to work and overall quality of life. This makes them less physically active and more prone to have conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Loss of ability to walk often results in unemployment, loss of income, rising healthcare costs and reduced quality of life. Physical activity has benefits including improved strength, cardiovascular health, and well-being. In this symposium we will address the issues leading to loss of mobility and its impact on adults living with cerebral palsy and evidence management strategies to maintain their mobility and physical activity.

Abstract:
Acquired brain injury (ABI) affects the whole family with changes in, for example, social connectedness, roles, mental well-being, and communication. Yet the focus of rehabilitation often remains on the individual, despite research showing both mutual and individual needs of the family members. This symposium presents three different interdisciplinary innovations that include families in neurorehabilitation. The first presentation outlines the development and feasibility testing of two cross-sectorial family interventions targeting communication and mental health based on a needs assessment of families living with consequences of ABI and aphasia. The second describes the evaluation of Family Intervention following Traumatic Injury (FITS) consisting of a controlled trail, a qualitative study of families’ experiences and a cost-effectiveness study. Furthermore, adjustments based on the evaluation will be presented. The third presentation highlights the development and feasibility of a self-paced digital health intervention designed to strengthen carers’ self-management skills in supporting themselves and people with communication disability. Collectively, these approaches demonstrate novel strategies for involving families across diverse settings and methods. The symposium will emphasise the feasibility of family-focused interventions and how enhancing knowledge and skills can promote smoother community re-integration.

Abstract:
Stroke is a major public health problem as the second most common cause of death and the most common cause of adult disability. More than one-third of stroke survivors have aphasia, which affects a person's ability to understand spoken language, talk, read and/or write. So far, there is no clearly effective intervention for aphasia, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to test various hypothesised interventions are urgently needed.

Despite all the genuine difficulties in designing and executing Randomised Controlled Trials of therapy interventions in aphasia, there is no escape from them. 

The speakers will compare ‘exploratory’ versus ‘pragmatic’ trials, but they will approach the task differently to convey salient messages.

Abstract:
Sleep disorders are increasingly recognized as a critical but often overlooked factor influencing outcomes in neurorehabilitation. Patients recovering from conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases frequently experience sleep disturbances that can exacerbate cognitive, emotional, and motor impairments. Early diagnosis of sleep disorders is essential, as untreated sleep problems may slow recovery, reduce neuroplasticity, and diminish the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions. Despite this, sleep disorders remain under-screened and under-managed in clinical practice. A symposium session dedicated to this topic would raise awareness among rehabilitation professionals about the prevalence and impact of sleep disturbances in their patients. It would also highlight practical approaches for early detection, including validated screening tools and clinical red flags. Emphasis on timely management strategies—ranging from behavioral interventions to medical therapies—can empower clinicians to optimize recovery pathways. Integrating sleep health into rehabilitation programs has the potential to improve patient engagement, functional outcomes, and quality of life. Prioritizing sleep disorder diagnosis and management in neurorehabilitation is not optional but fundamental to achieving holistic and effective patient care.

Abstract:
Epilepsy, traditionally managed through pharmacological and surgical approaches, often leaves behind a shadow of persistent disabilities that remain inadequately addressed. This round table session, “Beyond Seizures – Advancing Rehabilitation in Epilepsy,” aims to spotlight the urgent need for a multidisciplinary rehabilitation framework to address cognitive decline, communication deficits, motor dysfunction, and psychosocial limitations in people with epilepsy. Bringing together neurologists, physiotherapists, speech-language pathologists, and cognitive psychologists, the session will present innovative, evidence-based, and scalable interventions tailored to different epilepsy phenotypes and resource settings. From fall prevention to speech recovery, and from digital cognitive retraining to neuromodulation technologies, the discussions will explore both high-tech and low-cost strategies. The session is anchored in the WHO-IGAP vision of disability inclusion and participation, emphasizing real-world applicability. This initiative marks a paradigm shift in epilepsy care—recognizing that seizure freedom alone is not the end goal, but functional reintegration and quality of life are. The innovative, collaborative approach proposed is poised to significantly impact long-term outcomes and improve care continuity for epilepsy survivors.

Abstract:
Addressing patients motivation as an important outcome determining aspect in neurorehabilitation post stroke is currently increasingly considered both in clinical work and research. A new field within motivation research is currently developing, focusing the importance of designing motivation enhancing, real enriched environments in inpatient rehabilitation.
The symposium, whose both speakers are leading researchers in the field, addresses for the first time in this format and combination the role of built environments in making hospitals a place to act, not to rest.

Abstract:
A foundation of contemporary neurorehabilitation is recovering function and harnessing brain plasticity through practice. Emergent technology can be used as a therapeutic tool by rehabilitation clinicians, where an increasing range of products enable engaging and quantifiable therapy. When the nature of the prescribed therapy using technologies matches the clinical therapeutic goals, and can be used with clinical progression and oversight, such tools offer a new horizon for access to therapy that has historically been under-dosed and uninspiring. With the rapid acceptance of telecommunication (including the elderly) over the recent past, together with new clinical trial evidence in support of remotely supervised therapy benefit and cost-effectiveness, an opportunity exists to promote smooth transition to community care, and increase the dose of therapy. This session is innovative as we will be discussing the transition of neurotechnology & robotics from bedside to the home, as well as leveraging low-cost and ubiquitous mobile technology for real-time assessment and intervention in the community. The significance and impact comes from exploring how common neurotechnology & robotics systems are limited to the lab/clinic, while emergent tech can better cater for the specturm of severity and settings, and with insight into who best responds to such interventions. Our seven speakers bring unique and global perspectives from hospital, engineering, industry and rehabilitation science, to discuss current state of the art, direction, challenges and opportunities.

Abstract:
The International Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Alliance (ISRRA) convenes global roundtables to develop consensus recommendations that guide future research priorities and accelerate translation of recovery science into practice. This symposium presents outputs from the 2025 ISRRA Roundtables, which focused on four domains of immediate and long-term importance: 

1. frameworks for involving people with lived experience in research, 
2. somatosensory interventions, 
3. genetic and molecular biomarkers for stroke recovery, and 
4. scaling high-dose, highintensity (HDHI) rehabilitation into home and community settings. 

These topics represent both underdeveloped and high-priority areas where shared standards and coordinated research efforts are urgently needed. Drawing on ISRRA’s structured consensus process, each working group has synthesized the current evidence base, identified knowledge gaps, and formulated practical recommendations for next steps. For patient and public involvement, a roadmap of meaningful engagement is outlined. For somatosensation, consensus recommendations for targeted treatment and research priorities are presented. For biomarkers, the roundtable defines priorities for rigorous collection and -omics integration into stroke trials. For HDHI, requirements for technology-enabled delivery and system-level adoption are proposed. Together, these consensus outputs set an international agenda that will inform guideline updates, shape future trial design, and support policy and commissioning decisions to improve access and equity in stroke recovery.