What is it?
It stands for Continued Personal Development. You might of heard of it before in your chosen career. CPD for me is current and relevant information on my practise e.g. the topic of stretching for recovery, in which I can interpret, document and utilise to assist you in aiding a speedy recovery from injury. CPD is a vital part of every profession where information and possibly theories are continually being updated through scientific research.
Are Sports Therapists required to do CPD?
Yes. As an aspect of healthcare I am required by the SST (Society of Sports Therapists – the governing body) to keep up-to-date with the latest research on diagnosis techniques, treatment types, medical technological advances, injury management and more! If I didn’t I wouldn’t be able to be an accredited member of the society. It would potentially mean, if I didn’t do this, the information I’m giving YOU would be incorrect and could be putting YOU at risk of exacerbating your injury or causing new ones! Not good for me and my business’s reputation and especially not good for YOU. So make sure, when you are choosing a therapist, to look for the SST logo (like the one at the bottom of this page). Don’t get me wrong, some therapists do actively search for CPD and aren’t accredited with a particular society. However, how are you supposed to know…? With the logo on their website it gives you (the paying client) reassurance that your therapist is current and proactive in their quest for knowledge and are providing you with the best chance to becoming pain/injury free!
Valid examples of CPD are: