Working groups

Join Our Working Groups
Shape the Future of PRM

Our Working Groups are the heartbeat of the European Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ESPRM). They are open to all professionals eager to contribute actively to the field. We invite colleagues from across Europe to join us in driving:

  • Research: Collaborative studies and evidence-based clinical developments.
  • Education: Shaping the curriculum and training for the next generation of specialists.
  • Innovation: Participating in initiatives that define the standard of care.

Why Participate?

By joining a Working Group, you become part of a vital international network dedicated to the advancement of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.

  • Exchange Knowledge: Share expertise with peers and leaders in your sub-specialty.
  • Global Impact: Contribute to projects that influence PRM practices across the continent.
  • Professional Growth: Expand your network and collaborate on high-level academic and clinical initiatives.

How to Get Involved

Ready to contribute to a specific field of interest? Getting started is simple:

  1. Browse our list of active Working Groups.
  2. Identify the group that aligns with your expertise.
  3. Contact the respective Chair(s) directly to express your interest and receive further information on current projects.

For further inquiries regarding ESPRM membership or general activities, please visit our Contact page: https://esprm.eu/contact-us/

ESPRM Working Group

The Working Group application will remain continuously open for submission!

Conditions for applying for the ESPRM Working Group (WG) Application

  • The ESPRM WG Application can only be applied by the member of ESPRM. This concerns members of national PRM societies that are affiliated with ESPRM and individual members of ESPRM
  • One applicant can only submit one Working Group Application
  • Application and all supporting documents should be written in English.
  • Application form and all demanded supporting documents are to be sent to the administrator of ESPRM: ivana@conventuscredo.hr
  • Regulations concerning the ESPRM Working Groups are available at the following link.

ESPRM Working Group on Nutritional and Metabolic Aspects in Rehabilitation

Chairs:

Paolo Capodaglio, p.capodaglio@auxologico.it, Marta Supervia, msuperviapola@gmail.com

The Working Group on Nutritional and Metabolic Aspects in Rehabilitation focuses on improving the management of patients with impaired metabolic and nutritional balance —such as obesity, sarcopenia, frailty and osteoporosis—within Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM). It aims to build a European network of professionals, map current practices, and identify educational needs. Through research, registries, and the development of evidence-based clinical pathways, the group seeks to harmonize rehabilitation approaches, enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, and support high-quality, patient-centered care across Europe.

ESPRM WG for PRM in Children and Adolescents

Chairs:

Minna Ståhl, minna.stahl@hus.fi, Dejan Nikolic, denikol27@gmail.com

The working group focuses on advancing Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) for children and adolescents across Europe. Its main aim is to improve education, clinical practice, and research in pediatric rehabilitation by organizing training initiatives such as a European School, as well as workshops and sessions at international congresses. The group also seeks to build a professional network, raise awareness of pediatric PRM, and promote evidence-based approaches to enhance care for young patients.

Bone and Joint Musculoskeletal Disorders Working Group

Chairs:

Fitnat Dincer, fitnatdincer@gmail.com

The Working Group on Bone and Joint Musculoskeletal Disorders focuses on improving the diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions— particularly osteoarthritis,also Cervical Spine (Neck) Disorders ,Shoulder ,Hand and Wrist Disorders, Thoracic Spine (Back) Disorders ,Lumbar Spine (Low Back) Disorders ,Hip Joint ,Knee Joint Disorders ,Foot and Ankle Disorders,that is regional pain syndromes ,in addition to this including widespread pain disorders such as fibromyalgia across Europe. It promotes the central role of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) physicians through research, education, and international collaboration. By conducting multicenter studies and the group aims to harmonize clinical practice, reduce variations in care, and strengthen the quality and consistency of rehabilitation services for patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

Stroke rehabilitation

Chairs:

Xiaolei Hu, Xiaolei.hu@umu.se

The Stroke Rehabilitation Working Group is dedicated to improving the quality, organization, and accessibility of stroke rehabilitation across Europe. Its core activities include large-scale surveys to evaluate current rehabilitation services and continuity of care, helping to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. The group also advances knowledge through webinars and workshops, ensuring that insights are effectively shared and translated into practice. Working alongside parter organizations across Europe and worldwide, the group advances evidence-based rehabilitation, promotes harmonized care practices, and strives to improve outcomes for people living with stroke.

New technologies and robotic in PM&R

Chairs:

Alessandro Giustini, alessandro.giustini@ntc.it, Daiana Popa, popadv@hotmail.com

The Working Group on New Technologies and Robotics in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PM&R) focuses on advancing knowledge, education, and collaboration in the use of innovative technologies and robotic solutions in rehabilitation. Its core activity is the biennial European School, which provides structured training based on established ESPRM and UEMS frameworks, with potential expansion to additional countries to increase participation. The group also supports ongoing learning through webinars and fosters international collaboration via the PRM Community of Rehabilitation Robotics, connecting experts, educators, and participants,cooperating with Universities and education bodies in Europe to share knowledge and promote best practices in this rapidly evolving field. The main aim is to Implement international cooperation to finally include these treatments in the common daily rehabilitation tretments in Health Systems for all citizens.

IS GRaCE – Inclusion & Sex–Gender Rehabilitation and Care Equity Group

Chairs:

Sara Laxe, saralaxe@gmail.com

The IS GRaCE Working Group (Inclusion & Sex–Gender Rehabilitation and Care Equity) focuses on promoting equity, inclusion, and evidence-based practice in Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (PRM) by addressing sex and gender differences in health and care. Its work spans maternal and perinatal rehabilitation, the impact of sex and gender on rehabilitation outcomes, and gender equity within the PRM workforce. The group aims to improve awareness, develop clinical guidelines, support research and education, and foster inclusive healthcare systems to ensure better access, quality of care, and professional opportunities for all.

Spinal cord injury

Chairs:

Christina-Anastasia Rapidi, rapidicha@hotmail.com

The Working Group on Spinal Cord Injury focuses on improving the quality of care and outcomes for individuals with SCI across Europe. It brings together international experts to map existing services, identify gaps, and develop standardized tools, guidelines, and minimum standards for SCI management. Through research, education, and collaboration with key organizations, the group aims to strengthen capacity, promote best practices, raise awareness, and support the development of a European SCI network to enhance clinical care and facilitate scientific exchange.