An international week full of knowledge and exchange at CEERRF : Dr. Sofia Lopes shares her expertise with our students
Each year, CEERRF’s International Week stands out as a key event reflecting our commitment to high-quality education and our openness to international best practices in physiotherapy. The 2025 edition was no exception — in fact, it was particularly remarkable. We had the great pleasure of welcoming Dr. Sofia Lopes, physiotherapist, lecturer and researcher at our Portuguese partner university CESPU. Holder of a PhD and an MSc, she is a recognized expert in peripheral facial paralysis and ankylosing spondylitis.
With energy, passion, and academic rigor, Dr. Lopes led several sessions for our 2nd- and 3rd-year students, blending theoretical insights, practical demonstrations, and dynamic discussions. Her teaching focused on two complex pathologies:
Peripheral Facial Paralysis: Understanding, Observing, Rehabilitating
In addressing peripheral facial paralysis, Dr. Lopes enabled students to deepen their understanding of a condition that is both common and clinically challenging. With a clear and structured approach, she explained the key role of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) in facial expression, and highlighted the main clinical signs to look for during assessment — such as asymmetrical smiling, incomplete eye closure, and a motionless forehead. Students then explored various rehabilitation techniques including mirror exercises, self-massage, and progressive training, all rooted in evidence-based, individualized care.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: Movement and Adaptation at the Heart of Treatment
The second theme explored was ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine. Once again, Dr. Lopes made a complex topic accessible, detailing evaluation tools such as the BASMI index and thoracic perimetry, while emphasizing the vital role of movement in treatment. Stretching, muscle strengthening, cardio training, posture and balance work — each exercise was presented with practical application in mind, always focused on improving patients’ quality of life.
An Engaging and Inspiring Teaching Style
What truly stood out during the week was Dr. Lopes’s engaging, inclusive, and caring teaching approach. Through numerous hands-on workshops, students were able to practice professional techniques, reflect on their approach, and gain new perspectives. Her contagious enthusiasm and ability to bridge scientific knowledge with real-world practice turned these sessions into unforgettable learning experiences.
We would like to warmly thank Dr. Sofia Lopes for her generosity, the quality of her teaching, and her presence with us throughout the week. We also extend our sincere thanks to our partner CESPU for this fruitful collaboration.
Students, faculty, and the entire CEERRF team all came away enriched — both professionally and personally — from this remarkable encounter. A heartfelt thank you… and we already look forward to the next edition of International Week!