International Conference on Evidence-Based Aquatic Therapy
April 24-26, 2026
in Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
An amazing conference was enjoyed by 100 delegates from 16 countries. Fifteen Speakers and 23 posters connected research to practice, while 2 pool sessions let us explore new concepts. Take-aways on maximizing cerebral blood flow, the relationship of sleep effecting patient outcomes, embracing the ICF & F words into practice, incorporating music to access the brains capacity to connect expression and desirable rhythmical movement, recognizing that perceived threat is modulated when changing the exercise environment... so much learning!
Poster Presentations:
*Immersion and Innovation: Aquatic-Based Rehabilitation Therapy for SCI Patients with Complex Medical Condition and Invasive Appliances. Albert Recio, USA
*Using Quality Improvement methods to explore evidence-based practice in Aquatic Physiotherapy. Alasdair Davie, Scotland
*Rehabilitation resource planning for mass casualty incidents: a retrospective analysis of blast and ballistic injuries. Caroline Barmatz, Isreal
Customizing Aquatic Interventions: Meeting the Unique
Needs of Children with ASD. Patty van't Hooft, Nederlands
*Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Changes Among Veterans *Participating in Trauma‐Informed Aquatic Therapy: A 1‐Year Retrospective Study. Elizabeth Berg, USA
*Spinal cord injury aquatic physiotherapy: ventilated & tracheostomy management protocol. Julie Dixon, United kingdom
Poster Prize Recipient:
Nicolas Vaillancourt
MSc, PhD Student
Concordia University - Department of Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology
Poster Title:
Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Paraspinal and Gluteal Muscle Morphology and Psychological Outcomes in Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Healthcare Professionals Attending:
We had 16 countries represented, 15 Speakers and 23 posters!
We are proud to have had representation from many different healthcare practitioners at ICEBAT Canada:
Physiotherapists, Occupational therapist, Kinesiologists, Physical Therapy Assistants, Recreation Therapists, Osteopaths, Exercise Physiologists, Psychomotor Therapist, Students, Aquatic Rehab Assts, Aquatic Supervisors and Administrators, Medical Doctors and Research Scientists!
Urs Gamper Retiring
Urs has been co-Founder and President of the Association of International Aquatic Therapy Faculty, IATF, since 2011. We truly appreciate all he has done developing practice methodologies and research in aquatic therapy.
Eugenia Hernandez, Mexico, has stepped into his role. Congratulations!
Thank you to the Delta Marriott Toronto Airport & Conference Centre Staff - Amazing Venue!
A 4-day intensive Advanced Aquatic Therapy Course, from Wednesday April 29 to May 2, 2026.
Learn from IATF Master Instructor, Johan Lambeck.
At the new therapy pool at Westpark Healthcare Centre, Toronto.
