15/04/2026
Hello,
I’m writing to invite expressions of interest from individuals diagnosed with cervical dystonia who may be willing to participate as volunteer patient models for an upcoming specialist physiotherapy training workshop. This is a rare opportunity to support clinician education in a complex and often under-recognised condition.
We are welcoming internationally recognised Swedish physiotherapist Johanna Blom to Aotearoa New Zealand. Johanna is a leading educator in the management of dystonia and spasticity. She works in the Department of Neurology at Skåne University Hospital in Malmö, Sweden, and is the author of Muscle Imbalance: Cervical Dystonia and Spasticity. She also developed the Dystonia Physio Exercise Hub, now used by over 675 clinicians in 31 countries.
Johanna will lead a two-day professional development course for physiotherapists and Occupational therapists focused exclusively on cervical dystonia:
Dates: Saturday 2nd & Sunday 3rd May 2026
Location: Rope Neuro Rehabilitation, 562a Richmond Road, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Time commitment: Approximately 120 minutes on either day
We are looking for individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of cervical dystonia who would feel comfortable being observed in a teaching setting:
1–2 people for Day 1 (Saturday): Observation and demonstration by Johanna during a live teaching session
Up to 4 people for Day 2 (Sunday): Guided small group assessment and treatment sessions with physiotherapy participants, under supervision
All volunteers will be treated with care and respect. No hands-on techniques will be used without your full consent, and you are welcome to bring a support person with you. Timing will be arranged to suit your availability and comfort.
If this sounds like something you’d be open to – or if you’d like to learn more – please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your involvement would make a real difference in helping build expertise across Aotearoa.