Unveiling the Top 3 Insights from 2024 APTA CSM

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Combined Sections Meeting (CSM) held in Boston last week served as a beacon of innovation and collaboration in the field of physical therapy. As the team at FIGUR8, a leader in musculoskeletal health technology, reflected on the event, three key takeaways emerged, shedding light on the future of the profession and the transformative potential of modern technology.

1. Economic Impact of Physical Therapy
   
   Physical therapists provide undisputed value to individuals in their health journey and toward their quality of life, delivering cost-effective services within the U.S. healthcare system. Collectively, healthier individuals result in a healthier society, which delivers value to individuals, communities, and countries.
   
   This theme was evident throughout the 2024 APTA CSM conference. Whether it was the signage demonstrating the economic impact for 8 key conditions throughout the entrance to the convention center, sessions focused on the evidence and benefit of physical therapy, or a commitment for attendees to pledge the value of physical therapy demonstrated through the American Physical Therapy Association work.
   
   According to “The Economic Value of Physical Therapy in the United States” published by the American Physical Therapy Association, Physical therapy was found to have a net economic benefit over the alternative treatment for each of the conditions ranging from surgeries, long recoveries, and the risks of overuse of prescribed opioids and other medications. The results in this report demonstrate that, where medically appropriate, more widespread use of the selected physical therapist services would deliver both
   
   
   
2. Embracing Technological Advancements
   
   Another key takeaway from 2024 APTA CSM was the growing emphasis on embracing technological advancements in physical therapy. From virtual reality therapy to wearable sensors, attendees explored a myriad of cutting-edge technologies poised to reshape the landscape of rehabilitation.
   
   Friday night's “Technopalooza” event was the pinnacle of innovation in physical therapy, where trailblazers in the space shared their technology and best practices in partnership. The bioMotion Assessment Platform, or bMAP, available to FIGUR8 partners stood out as a game-changer in musculoskeletal assessment.
   
   “We are looking for ways to capture more objective data and the way that you are going about it, removing a lot of the barriers to adoption, is really smart.” - Physical Therapist, APTA CSM Attendee
   
   By harnessing advanced biomechanics data and machine learning algorithms, FIGUR8 is at the forefront of leveraging technology to enhance patient care and improve outcomes.
   
   
3. Fostering Collaboration and Integration
   
   APTA CSM underscored the importance of fostering collaboration and integration within the physical therapy community.
   
   Attendees exchanged insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, fostering a spirit of collaboration aimed at advancing the profession. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, partnerships between technology providers like FIGUR8 and physical therapy professionals will play a crucial role in improving patient care.

APTA CSM 2024 offered valuable insights and opportunities for reflection on the future of physical therapy. FIGUR8 emerged from the conference with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to advancing musculoskeletal health through data-driven precision, technological innovation, and collaborative partnerships. As we look ahead, we remain dedicated to empowering clinicians with the tools and insights they need to deliver exceptional care and transform lives.

If you and your team of clinicians are interested in learning more about becoming FIGUR8 enabled reach out to info@FIGUR8tech.com or visit our website, FIGUR8tech.com