Driving Evidence-Based Practice

At NCPA, we place research and innovation at the heart of our mission. By advancing scientific inquiry, we seek to validate and improve the practices of cosmetic physiotherapy, as well as pioneer new approaches that expand what physiotherapists can do in the aesthetic realm. Our Research & Innovation initiatives are designed to support investigators, encourage evidence-based practice, and facilitate collaboration across disciplines.

Ongoing Research Programs

Rehabilitative Aesthetics

Investigating how traditional rehab techniques (exercise, manual therapy) impact aesthetic benefits like posture, appearance, confidence, and muscle tone.

Modality Efficacy Trials

Collaborating with academic centers to test outcomes of modalities like ESWT (cellulite), microcurrent (facial toning), and ultrasound (fat reduction). Evidence shows laser/ESWT effective for adipose tissue/skin texture.
Ref: Aesthetic Rehabilitation Medicine - PMC

Modality Efficacy Trials

Overseeing studies on combined therapies (manual mobilization, compression, laser, silicone) to optimize scar healing, appearance, and patient-reported outcomes (discomfort, confidence).

Psychosocial Outcomes

Partnering with psychologists to study the quality-of-life impact of cosmetic physiotherapy, quantifying effects on self-esteem, social anxiety, and life satisfaction.

Technology & Innovation Projects

Working with engineers/startups on new tools like smart posture wearables with biofeedback and AI-driven skin analysis software for objective measurement.

Our programs often involve multi-center collaboration. Updates are shared via newsletters and events. Members are encouraged to participate.

Collaboration Opportunities

Academic Partnerships

Joint research fellowships/grants with universities/hospitals. Co-funding PhDs/fellows with mentorship and network access.

Multi-disciplinary Research

Inviting professionals from related fields (dermatology, surgery, etc.) for joint projects, pooling expertise for broader impact.

Industry-Sponsored Studies

Independent evaluations of industry products (devices, skincare) ensuring academic integrity. Opportunities for members as investigators.

International Research Network

Facilitating a global network/registry for outcomes data. Researchers contribute data for collaborative studies across diverse populations.

Interested in collaborating?

We offer guidance on study design, IRB support, and grant co-sponsorship.

Grants & Funding Opportunities

NCPA Research Grant

Annual seed grant ($5k-$10k) for promising proposals (preference for members). Supports pilot studies/partial funding. Winners announced at conference.

Young Investigator Award

For early-career researchers (students/recent grads). Supports small projects or dissemination (e.g., conference travel). Based on abstract quality.

Travel Fellowships

Scholarships for members presenting accepted papers at relevant international conferences, facilitating global knowledge sharing.

Industry Grants

Occasional opportunities advertised through partnerships (e.g., device research). NCPA ensures unbiased selection and ethical conduct.

All applications reviewed by the Research Grant Panel based on merit, feasibility, relevance, and impact.

Case Studies & Innovation Showcase

Beyond formal research, NCPA values real-world clinical insights and grassroots innovation from our members.

Through these efforts, NCPA continuously pushes the boundaries of physiotherapy, validating practices and introducing creative solutions for patients’ aesthetic and functional needs.

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