Conference: 57th International Spinal Cord Society Annual Scientific Meeting, September 13-15, 2018, Sydney, Australia.
Conference Highlight: This meeting facilitated the sharing of knowledge about novel technologies and therapeutic techniques across multiple disciplines.
Conference Summary: The International Spinal Cord Society Annual Scientific Meeting is an opportunity for experts and trainees who work in the field of spinal cord medicine and rehabilitation to network, learn and discuss recent advances with one another. At this year’s conference, a major focus of the conference was the development of novel technologies, along with alternative methods of spinal cord management that are at the forefront of the field. It was exciting to learn about the scientists, physicians, allied health and stakeholders in the community that are working together to use evidence-based practices to optimize outcomes for people with spinal cord injuries.
A plenary talk by Simon Darcy was the major highlight of this year’s conference. Dr. Darcy, a professor at the University of Technology Sydney Business School, specializes in inclusive organizational approaches for diverse groups; he also happens to live with a spinal cord injury. His talk focused on the key difference between impairments and disability. While impairments exist within a person, disability exists on a societal level. As someone with a spinal cord injury may not be able to walk, which is an impairment, but not being able to enter a building due to the lack of a ramp and represents a disability caused by societal structures. He posed the question: why is accessibility not a given? Especially in the world we live in today, with all of its new technologies and innovations, we should all be taking care to make sure everyone is included.
Attending this meeting provided new insights into this fascinating field and will definitely enhance the careers of all who attended.