21 Nov 2025

This month’s therapy sector news

CSP runs Exploring the use of AI in physiotherapy event (24 Oct): The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) hosted a live event on 24 October exploring how artificial intelligence is being used in physiotherapy. Speakers showcased real-world use cases ranging from digital triage and patient monitoring to automated outcome tracking, highlighting how technology can enhance - not replace - clinical expertise.

NICE publishes rehab guideline for chronic neurological disorders (NG252): Published on 15 October, NICE has released a major new guideline on rehabilitation for adults with chronic neurological disorders. NG252 outlines standards for care pathways, multidisciplinary coordination, and goal setting, backed by fresh evidence reviews. It’s a landmark framework aiming to standardise and improve rehab delivery across the NHS.

Private physiotherapy sector flagged in national survey for care-decline risks: A new CSP survey, released on 27 October, warns that shrinking access to dedicated rehabilitation space is putting care quality at risk. Three-quarters (74%) of the NHS physiotherapists who took part in the survey reported worsening patient outcomes as gyms and therapy areas are repurposed for other clinical uses. The findings underline growing concerns about post-acute recovery capacity.

CSP calls for urgent investment in physiotherapy workforce to keep Britain working: The CSP has called on the government to back the “Keep Britain Working” initiative with tangible funding for physiotherapy roles. They argue that the physiotherapy workforce is central to reducing sickness absence and improving population health outcomes, but that urgent investment is needed to meet demand.

New research project on clinician mental health in sport: The Society of Sports Therapists is supporting an international research project examining how negative workplace experiences, such as harassment or abuse, impact the mental health of clinicians working with athletes. The study aims to inform better safeguarding, support, and wellbeing policies in sports medicine environments.

CSP and GIRFT Launch FCP service evaluation: In collaboration with NHS England’s Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme, the CSP has launched a nationwide survey of First Contact Practitioners (FCPs). The initiative seeks to capture current service models and identify opportunities for improvement in primary care-based physiotherapy.

Martial arts used in rehabilitation of neurological conditions: A growing body of research is exploring how martial arts disciplines, such as tai chi, karate, and boxing, are helping people with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and MS regain balance, confidence, and mobility. This feature looks at how movement-based therapies are being integrated into innovative rehab programmes.