⭐️ At StarPhysio we believe it’s important to keep learning and exploring new developments that could make a difference for the children and families we work with. Recently four of our team attended the world summit on Clinical Advances in Spinal Neuromodulation. It was an incredible opportunity to see the new trends shaping our field, connect with leading experts and share ideas with colleagues from around the world.
This year’s summit focused on Transcutaneous Spinal Neuromodulation (TSN). It’s an exciting non-surgical treatment that could help people with cerebral palsy move more freely. The event was led by Dr Reggie Edgerton, often described as the modern pioneer of this work and Dr Susan Hastings, a leading expert in paediatric physiotherapy. Their passion and knowledge were inspiring and we came away full of ideas about how this might benefit the children and young people we support.
⭐️ What is TSN? ⭐️
TSN uses gentle electrical currents placed on the skin over the spine. There’s no surgery or implant involved. It works by helping to “wake up” the spinal cord so that messages from the brain travel more effectively to the muscles. When used alongside exercise and regular physiotherapy, TSN can act a bit like an amplifier, helping the nervous system to build stronger connections and relearn movement patterns more efficiently.
⭐️ Who can it help? ⭐️
What’s so promising about TSN is that improvements are being seen across different ages and levels of ability. Children and adults with cerebral palsy have shown better control, less stiffness and greater independence after just a few months of treatment. It also seems to make other therapies work more effectively.
⭐️ A new direction ⭐️
TSN could represent one of the most important advances in cerebral palsy treatment in recent years. It’s still early days though and we’re watching the research closely. The experts at the summit encouraged cautious optimism while more clinics and families around the world share their experiences and results.
⭐️ What this means for our families ⭐️
At StarPhysio we want to stay at the leading edge of new treatments so that the care we offer is always informed by the best available evidence. By connecting directly with leading researchers like Dr Edgerton and Dr Hastings we can keep learning and make sure our families have access to the latest and safest options.
TSN might just be a real turning point in how we manage spasticity and unlock potential for movement in people with cerebral palsy. It offers new hope for change without surgery or major risks and we’re excited to see where it leads next. ⭐️