02/20/2026
A tale of two conferences. I spent a day each at (our annual US-based PT nerd-fest) and (Int’l Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health annual scientific meeting). Both full of top notch researchers, clinicians, and speakers. I learned about new technologies (Shear-wave Elastography at CSM and Low Intensity Shockwave Therapy at ISSWSH ) and heard research updates (Bone Stress Injuries at CSM and Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause at ISSWSH). I also got valuable time with colleagues in-person at both conferences-absolutely filled my cup.
But there were two glaring differences between the conferences. First, I will expect nothing less than a silent disco type poster presentation format from now on- so well done (swipe).
Second, the ISSWSH conference leaders prioritized acknowledgement and validation of the dramatic new reality we live in as practitioners due to the implications of the dismantling of US Government funding for scientific research. This is particularly true for those of us who serve marginalized communities and needs like pelvic health. One of the most eye opening statistics shared was that it takes 18-24 years from initial research and development of a treatment to create an ongoing positive impact on patient outcomes. The loss of today’s science will have huge downstream effects- with so much lost potential to make lasting change in the health of so many, decades from now. The speakers noted that those most affected by these pruned research timelines (Loki reference anyone?) would never know what was missing in their care. The public would be unaware of what could’ve been, how they could’ve been helped.
To remain silent in the face of this, in an attempt to remain ‘politically neutral” as an organization, misses the mark so deeply. This loss of science has a bipartisan impact, we are ALL hurt by this loss. This is about our shared humanity, oaths of service, commitment to evidenced based care, and patient-centering efforts. This impacts all of us, and it disproportionately impacts women, children, and marginalized communities (keep swiping).
