News

Introducing "Occupational Therapy: A Life Restorer"

To commemorate its 45th anniversary, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University proudly presents "Occupational Therapy - A Life Restorer." This special book weaves together 20 clinical cases and expert perspectives to offer a profound insight into the world of occupational therapy. Through this collection, the department not only educates readers on the nuances of the profession but also conveys a heartfelt message of care to the public.

Prof. Marco Pang Appointed as Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences (RS) proudly announces the distinguished appointment of Prof. Marco Pang as the Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences under PolyU’s Endowed Professorship Scheme. This prestigious title is bestowed to honour Prof. Pang for his remarkable academic and research contributions in stroke rehabilitation and neuroscience. Prof. Marco Pang has an illustrious career, currently serving as the Head of RS and the Director of the University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience (UBSN) at PolyU. A prominent alumnus of the University of Alberta, Canada, he has become a beacon in the field of rehabilitation, earning international acclaim including being ranked amongst the world's top 1% most-cited scientists in his field, according to a study by a group of scholars in Stanford University. In 2023, Prof. Pang was recognised with the prestigious World Physiotherapy International Service Award for Research, becoming the first physiotherapist from Hong Kong to be honoured with this accolade. As an esteemed figure in both local and global physiotherapy circles, Prof. Pang has been invited to deliver over 150 lectures and workshops globally and held significant positions, including President of the Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association and Executive Board Member of World Physiotherapy. He is currently as the elected Chair of the World Physiotherapy Asia Western Pacific (AWP) Region. This appointment, sponsored by the Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund (SHECF), reflects the Fund's unwavering commitment to education, medical services, and scientific research, which has led to over HK$1.7 billion in donations to uplift various sectors of society. SHECF continues to support the community by funding educational and research excellence through endowments and chair professorships. Upon accepting the appointment, Prof. Pang remarked, "I am deeply honoured by the Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund appointment, I aim to create a new chapter for rehabilitation sciences in Hong Kong, the Mainland and around the world, fostering academic and research advancements, for the betterment of mankind." RS extends our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Marco Pang on this significant milestone and looks forward to the inspiring work he will lead as the Shun Hing Education and Charity Fund Professor in Rehabilitation Sciences. His rich experience and visionary leadership are poised to drive forward the boundaries of research and education, greatly impacting the field of rehabilitation and beyond.

RS Student Honoured with Outstanding Student Award and Presidential Student Leadership Awards

RS is delighted to share the wonderful news that Miss Kwok-Chi Wong (Marsh), a Year 4 BSc (Hon) student in Physiotherapy, has been honoured with three prestigious awards of PolyU - the Outstanding Student Award of Department, Presidential Student Leadership Award of Faculty, and Presidential Student Leadership Award of Department. Marsh has consistently showcased her academic prowess and dedication in serving and leading within our community. Through her pivotal roles as a coordinator at the iCare Physiotherapy Pain Centre and as a leader within PolyU's STAR Programme, she has embodied the true spirit of leadership and service. The Outstanding Student Award Scheme, administered by PolyU, annually recognises students who demonstrate exceptional performance both academically and in non-academic pursuits. Likewise, the Presidential Student Leadership Awards are presented to student leaders who exhibit and deploy exemplary leadership qualities and abilities, contributing significantly to society and the global community. Please join us in extending our congratulations to Marsh on receiving these awards. We are excited to see where her skills and passion for leadership will take her in the future and look forward to her continued success.

Dr Mei-zhen Huang Recognised as Elite Reviewer for 2023

Dr Mei-zhen Huang, Assistant Professor of RS, has been awarded the Elite Reviewer status by the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, a leading journal in rehabilitation. This award has placed her in the distinguished top 4% of 810 reviewers for her exceptional contributions in 2023. Her skillful critical analysis and dedication to enhancing clinical practices and scientific discussions have set her apart, earning her this notable recognition among her peers. With her keen focus on improving physical function for individuals with neurological conditions through innovative research, Dr Huang has played a pivotal role in the development of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for stroke and Parkinson's Disease patients. Furthermore, she brings her comprehensive clinical research experience in addressing motor impairments and mobility challenges into rehabilitation sciences and practice. This honour not only highlights Dr Huang’s commitment to advancing rehabilitation sciences worldwide but also her role in fostering scholarly excellence. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Huang on receiving this award.

Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2024 – Call for Nominations!

We are excited to announce that the nominations for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU Department of Rehabilitation Sciences 2024 are now open! This prestigious award not only celebrates the remarkable achievements of our graduates in their respective fields but also acknowledges their active support of our alma mater. Support and Contribution to PolyU is one of the key selection criteria at all levels. The award recognises excellence in four distinct areas: Professional Achievement, Entrepreneurial Achievement, Scholarly Achievement and Community Service Achievement. Moreover, alumni who are aged at/under 40 would be eligible for the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. The Selection Committee will consist of members from the Department's management team, alumni, and external stakeholders. Award Category Description Professional Achievement This category recognises alumni who have attained distinguished achievements, demonstrated exemplary leadership, and made a strong impact on their profession/ industry/ society.  Entrepreneurial Achievement This category recognizes alumni who have demonstrated outstanding innovation and entrepreneurship, as well as founded or advanced business or technology ventures with impact.   Scholarly Achievement This category recognises alumni scholars who have made notable scholarly or research contributions in their disciplines, with proven track record and excellent reputation in the field.  Community Service Achievement This category recognises alumni who have made impactful contributions to the communities, or demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, volunteerism and/or philanthropy for promoting the wellbeing of the communities. Please download the nomination form HERE for your perusal. Recipients of Department Awards may be nominated for the Outstanding Alumni Award of PolyU at the Faculty Level and University Level. We eagerly anticipate your nominations in recognition of our distinguished alumni by 22 April 2024 (Monday) at 5:00 pm! For any inquiries, please email rs.crm@polyu.edu.hk.  

PolyU hosts seminar on sports physiotherapy Hong Kong’s first professional certificate in sports physiotherapy launched to meet industry demand

In response to the increasing demand for sports physiotherapy professionals, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED) of PolyU, and The Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association (HKPA), hosted a seminar titled “The Opportunity, Rewards, and Challenges as a Sports Physiotherapist”. A groundbreaking Professional Certificate Course in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy was also announced during the event. Esteemed guests attended the seminar including Dr LAM Tai-fai, Council Chairman of PolyU; Mr WONG Tak Sum, Sam, Commissioner for Sports, Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Sports and Recreation Branch, HKSAR Government; Mr WONG Po Kee, Honorary Deputy Secretary General of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, key faculty members of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and SPEED, and executive committee members of HKPA. Mr Wong Tak Sum, Sam, a retired athlete, shared his insights into the evolution of mass and elite sports in Hong Kong, emphasising the pivotal role played by sports physiotherapists. In addition, prominent athletes, such as basketball player Mr LEE Ki, and footballer Mr YAPP Hung Fai, shared their experiences with sports physiotherapy, along with seasoned sports physiotherapist Ms Bonnie LAU. SPEED and HKPA also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly introduce a first-of-its-kind 6-month part-time Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy at HKQF Level 6 in the coming July, which is tailored for registered physiotherapists in Hong Kong who are seeking to specialise in sports physiotherapy. The comprehensive curriculum is designed by specialists from PolyU’s Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, covering essential elements of sports physiotherapy, from “Immediate Care for Emergency, Traumatic, and Medical Conditions”, “Principles of Sports Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation”, to “Exercise training principles”. The programme boasts a team of distinguished tutors, including academics from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and experienced sports physiotherapists from HKPA. Students will be able to gain hands-on experience with on-field physiotherapy services under their guidance. Eligible graduates could apply for credit exemptions when articulating with PolyU’s Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy programme. “We are grateful for the support government showed in developing the field of professional sports physiotherapy,” said Prof. Amy FU, Associate Director of Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology, Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Peter Hung Professor in Pain Management of PolyU, and also the programme coordinator for MSc in Sports Physiotherapy. She added, “With Hong Kong’s athletes gearing up for international and national competitions like the Paris 2024 Olympic Games , the 15th National Games and the FISU World University Games Summer in 2025, and the Asian Games in 2026, the need for qualified sports physiotherapists has never been greater. The launch of this professional certificate course comes at a significant time.” Enrolment for the Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy will open in May 2024. For more details, please visit the website here.

PolyU Introduces Hong Kong’s First Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy

In response to the increasing demand for sports physiotherapy professionals, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED), PolyU, and The Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association (HKPA) announced the launch of a groundbreaking Professional Certificate Course in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy.   Course Details: Date: July 2024 to Jan 2025 (Saturdays/Sundays) Course Fee : HK$25,000 (This course has been included in the list of reimbursable courses under the Continuing Education Fund) Professional Recognition: Professional Certificate awarded by PolyU SPEED Qualifications Framework (QF Level 6) Credit exemptions when articulating with PolyU's Master of Science in Sports Physiotherapy Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours upon successful completion of the course   Enrolment for the Professional Certificate in Advanced Practice in Sports Physiotherapy will open on May 2024. For more information on application procedures and course details, please visit www.speed-polyu.edu.hk or email to ceo@speed-polyu.edu.hk.   Sharing by Mr Salom YIU Kam Shing - Elite Ruby Player:   Sharing by Ms Vera LUI Lai Yiu - Elite Track and Field Athlete:

Dr Chun Liang Hsu Appointed as Kuok Group Young Scholar in Aging and Neuroimaging

A significant acknowledgment of his pioneering research, it is our pleasure to announce that Dr Chun Liang Hsu, Assistant Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, has been appointed as the Kuok Group Young Scholar in Aging and Neuroimaging. This designation under The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)’s Endowed Young Scholars Scheme marks not just a milestone for Dr Hsu but also distinguishes him as the first from our department to receive this prestigious honour. Dr Hsu’s exemplary journey in the field of Rehabilitation Sciences began with his graduation from the University of British Columbia, where he fostered his deep interest and expertise in the intricate aspects of aging, cognition, and mobility. His commitment and dedication to advancing our understanding of these areas were further recognised with the award of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Fellowship, enabling him to pursue postdoctoral training at the renowned Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Harvard Medical School. Using advanced neuroimaging techniques, Dr Hsu’s research offers critical insights into the neural underpinnings of functional impairments among aging clinical populations. His groundbreaking work sheds light on the relationship between cognition and mobility and explores how targeted interventions can enhance cognitive and mobility outcomes. Dr Hsu's comprehensive approach, combining methodologies from magnetic resonance imaging with a hands-on understanding of clinical populations, places him at the forefront of his field. The Endowed Young Scholars Scheme, aimed at fostering young academic talents, recognises the potential of researchers like Dr Hsu to drive transformative changes in their disciplines. This award underscores the joint commitment between PolyU, its benefactors, and outstanding scholars to nurture innovations that have a lasting positive impact on society. By receiving this endowment, Dr Hsu will have access to essential annual funding, promoting further advancements in his influential research into aging and neuroimaging. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr Hsu on this prestigious appointment and look forward to the continued impact of his research on understanding and enhancing the lives of aging populations around the globe.

Appointment of RS Academia as Honorary Research Fellow at Hong Kong Police College

Dr Billy So, Assistant Professor of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, has been appointed as an Honorary Research Fellow under the Honorary Research Fellowship Scheme at the Hong Kong Police College on 6 February 2024. This appointment aims to leverage the research expertise of experienced academics to elevate policing standards through evidence-based research initiatives. In his new role, Dr So will collaborate with the School of Foundation Training at the Hong Kong Police College to conduct scientific monitoring of the fitness and well-being development among Police Trainees. This collaboration will involve the use of a newly developed communication platform. Moreover, Dr So will play an important role in educating Police Trainees on the significance of tracking motion and physiological parameters for the advancement of physical fitness and health. This research project stands as a significant opportunity to empower Police Trainees to optimize their performance and resilience within the challenges of law enforcement.

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Inaugurates Master's Programmes for Academic Year 2023/24

The Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) proudly marked the inauguration of the Master in Physiotherapy (MPT) and Master in Occupational Therapy (MOT) Programmes for the academic year 2023/24 on 2 February. The ceremony, graced by esteemed government officials, underscored the significance of advancing rehabilitation therapy in a rapidly evolving societal landscape, especially in addressing the needs of an ageing society. Distinguished guests including Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare; Ms Leung Yee Lee, Maggie, Assistant Director (Rehabilitation & Medical Social Services), Social Welfare Department, and Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences joined key faculty members of the Department to officiate this momentous occasion. The ceremony commenced with a compelling keynote address by Mr Ho Kai-ming, JP, Under Secretary for Labour and Welfare, who emphasised the crucial contribution of physiotherapists and occupational therapists in enhancing societal well-being. He encouraged students to embrace their academic journey as a determining period of personal and professional growth. Subsequently, Prof. Marco Pang, Chair Professor of Neurorehabilitation and Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, shared a speech as he recalled the inception and evolution of the Master's programmes, emphasising the global trend towards having physiotherapists and occupational therapists as first contact practitioners. A touching sharing session by recent programme graduates added a deeply personal dimension to the ceremony. Graduates including Ms Jaime Cheung, Ms Janna Hui, and Mr Mathew Chan recounted their transformative experiences during the programme, expressing gratitude for the invaluable learning opportunities and the profound impact on their professional journeys. Their stories served as a testament to the programmes’ ability to nurture compassionate, dedicated rehabilitation professionals with genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Under the Training Sponsorship Scheme of the Social Welfare Department, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences has been offering the two-year full-time entry-level MPT and MOT programmes in alternate years since 2012, and annually since 2021. Both programmes have been instrumental in training future rehabilitation therapists, contributing to easing of shortages in these vital healthcare sectors.