Outreach Activities
Covid-19 Pandemic, Five Years Later
February 26, 2025
The Department of Physiotherapy of the University of Thessaly, in collaboration with the 5th Health Region of Thessaly & Central Greece, is organizing a conference titled “Covid-19 Pandemic, Five Years Later” on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 10:00 to 16:00 at the Amphitheater of the Central Library in Lamia University Campus.
Exercise-Based Cardiovascular Rehabilitation. An Innovative Program in Lamia by the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly
December 2024
The Research Laboratory of Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly, in collaboration with the Municipality of Lamia, has launched – and is already offering – free exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programs for patients with cardiovascular diseases (e.g., coronary artery disease) in Lamia.
Each patient is offered free of charge:
- Personalized assessment of their cardiorespiratory fitness.
- Adaptive exercise programs, specifically designed to meet the needs of each patient.
- Supervised exercise sessions conducted by physiotherapists, either in person at the Department of Physiotherapy facilities in Lamia and at the Senior Citizens’ Centers (KAPI) of the Municipality of Lamia, or remotely at the patient’s home via tele-rehabilitation.
For more information and to register for the program, please contact the program coordinators:
Garryfalia Pepera–Kalantzi, Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
E-mail: gpepera@uth.gr
Varsamo Antoniou, Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
E-mail: varsamoantoniou@uth.gr | Phone: +30 694 463 5309
Training Seminar at Merimna Paidiou Katerinis
April 2024
As part of the collaboration between the Health Assessment and Quality of Life Research Laboratory (HAQL Lab) of the Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly, and Merimna Paidiou Katerinis, a training seminar was conducted for the staff of the organization.
The seminar focused on: Developing and enhancing self-care and well-being for personnel working in care environments for individuals with disabilities – improving and strengthening communication skills to optimize care and support services.
Therapeutic Exercise and Music
April 9, 2024
The Municipality of Lamia, the Research Laboratory of Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly, and the Municipal Conservatory of Lamia launched a new therapeutic exercise program on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, aimed at senior citizens.
The program was held at the 2nd Senior Citizens’ Center (KAPI) of Lamia with the goal of:
- Reducing musculoskeletal pain
- Improving functional capacity
- Enhancing cognitive abilities
These objectives were achieved through group therapeutic exercise sessions accompanied by music. Participants included elderly members from both the 2nd and 4th KAPI of Lamia.
Program Contributors:
Eleni Kapreli – Professor, Director of the Research Laboratory of Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation, University of Thessaly
Stavroula Boti – Music Professor, Municipal Conservatory of Lamia
Panagiotis Trigkas – Lecturer, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
Maria Tsekoura – Assistant Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Patras
Paraskevi Bilika – Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
Aikaterini Mitsaki – Physical Education Graduate, Physiotherapy Student, University of Thessaly
Prodromos Kanellopoulos – Physical Education Graduate, Physiotherapy Student, University of Thessaly
Experiential Educational Visit of Students from the 4th General Lyceum of Lamia
December 19, 2023
An educational visit was conducted by the 3rd Grade Health Sciences Track students of the 4th General Lyceum of Lamia as part of an informational and experiential activity organized by the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly. The event took place on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the Department’s facilities.
The activity was coordinated by the Human Activity and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, with the participation of Assistant Professor Savvas Spanos and Ph.D. Candidate Anthi Kellari. Additionally, the Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory was involved, coordinated by Assistant Professor Garryfalia Pepera.
During the visit, students had the opportunity to tour the university facilities, receive valuable information about the department’s organization, operations, and curriculum, as well as participate in clinical applications and hands-on skill sessions, gaining firsthand experience in the field of physiotherapy.
Enhancing Clinical Communication Skills for Secondary Education Students
December 13, 2023
An educational activity titled “Enhancing Clinical Communication Skills for Secondary Education Students” was held on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at the Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly. The event was attended by 2nd-year students from the 2nd Vocational High School (EPAL) of Lamia, specializing in the Health, Welfare & Wellness Sector.
The activity was coordinated by the Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, with the participation of Professor Eleni Kapreli, Ph.D. candidates Konstantina Savoulidou and Paraskevi Bilika, as well as senior undergraduate students from the department.
The program included an introduction to clinical communication skills, interactive exercises with role-playing activities and clinical scenarios, and the use of a VR application from the EmpathyInHealth research project.
“Unlocking Communication”
December 2023
The e-UNI Talks by the students of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly are back – this time in audio format! This event features a podcast titled “Unlocking Communication”, created in collaboration with the organization Win Cancer and the show “Battle Diary – WinCancer”.
Communication skills are a key element in patient rehabilitation, as they contribute to the co-creation of personalized treatment plans, enhance patient satisfaction, and improve clinical outcomes. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to be trained in clinical communication skills to effectively support patients, such as those battling cancer.
In this podcast, members of the e-UNI Talks take the microphone, becoming the protagonists as they share their experiences from clinical practice and their education at the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly.
You can listen to the podcast at the following link:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VNRB9xahxztXRD9zL7cM4?si=CGCvJ7krSuuZNKMxiNZv
“SPIROMETRO” Days of Screening and Prevention of Respiratory Diseases
November 27-29, 2023
The Department of Physiotherapy of the University of Thessaly and the Hellenic Thoracic Society (HTS) carried out disease prevention activities on November 27, 28, and 29, 2023, at various healthcare facilities in the region of Fthiotida, including the Stylida Health Center, the 2nd KAPI (Open Care Center for the Elderly) of the Municipality of Lamia, and the Kamena Vourla Health Center.
Participating in the initiative were pulmonologists, members of the Medical Association of Fthiotida, Mr. Ioannis Beltegris and Mr. Emmanouil Manos, along with Mr. Viorelis Drougias and Mr. Stergios Giotas from HTS. Also taking part were professors from the Department of Physiotherapy, including Ms. Eleni Kortianou, Mr. Aristidis Vassilopoulos, and Mr. Konstantinos Sourlis, as well as PhD candidates Aspasia Mavronasou and Vasiliki Tsikna, and a total of 30 students from the Department of Physiotherapy.
Over the three-day event, 260 citizens participated, with 232 individuals completing spirometry testing. The screenings identified 45 new cases of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and 32 new cases of Bronchial Asthma. All participants were advised to seek further medical evaluation and were informed about appropriate management strategies for their conditions.
The Department of Physiotherapy of the University of Thessaly extends its sincere gratitude to the Directors and staff of the Stylida and Kamena Vourla Health Centers, the staff of the 2nd KAPI of the Municipality of Lamia for their excellent hospitality and cooperation, and all the participants for their prompt response and large turnout.
This initiative marks the beginning of collaborations between the Department of Physiotherapy of the University of Thessaly and scientific organizations for the development and implementation of preventive interventions for the citizens of Fthiotida.
WEALTH: Women Leading in Health
May 23, 2023
The students of the Department of Physiotherapy, in collaboration with the Clinical Exercise Physiology & Rehabilitation Laboratory, invite you to the fifth online event of the e-UNI Talks series, titled “WEALTH: Women Leading in Health,” taking place on Tuesday, May 23, at 8:00 PM. This event is part of the European Public Health Week (EUPHA), with Tuesday dedicated to diversity in health.
Despite significant progress, gender discrimination in professional settings, particularly in leadership roles, remains a persistent issue. Women often hesitate to pursue leadership positions due to a lack of support from their social and family environments. In the healthcare sector, where administrative roles are predominantly held by men, women with leadership ambitions face numerous obstacles before securing a seat at the table.
With this event, we aim to highlight this challenge and raise awareness. Our three guest speakers will share their personal experiences, the gender inequalities they have encountered, and the challenges they have successfully overcome. Through their stories, they will inspire and encourage other women to pursue leadership roles in the health sector.
Addictive Behaviors – What You Need to Know
May 10, 2023
The President and members of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly invite you to a lecture on “Addictive Behaviors – What You Need to Know”, which will take place on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Physiotherapy Lecture Hall, delivered by representatives from KETHEA EXODUS.
Participation in the “Open Doors” Event of the University of Thessaly
Organizing a Walking Event on Cancer Survivors Day
June 5, 2022
The Lamia Cancer Patients Association – Central Greece, in collaboration with the Association of Volunteers, Friends, and Doctors of Athens and the Health and Quality of Life Assessment Research Laboratory at the Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly, organized a walking event in Lamia on June 5, 2022, in honor of Cancer Survivors Day.
Participation of Physiotherapy Students in the “Anopaia Atrapos” Race
Every year in May, the students of the Department of Physiotherapy participate in the Anopaia Atrapos race in Thermopylae, one of the most historic trails. As part of the Sports Physiotherapy course, the students contribute to the rehabilitation of athletes, manage their injuries, provide first aid, and engage in injury prevention assessments and counseling. Over 250 athletes visit the specially designed booth for support.
With boundless enthusiasm and energy, the students bring countless smiles while offering their services and knowledge, showcasing the field of sports physiotherapy. This event not only helps increase the department’s visibility and strengthen its connection with society but also provides a great opportunity for students to apply their clinical and communication skills in practice.
“My Strong, Healthy Body”: An Activity for Primary School Students
May 16, 2022
The Research Laboratory of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation from the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly, as part of the European Public Health Week (May 16-20, 2022) organized by EUPHA (European Public Health Association), hosted an event on Monday, May 16, 2022 at the Physiotherapy Department facilities in Lamia titled “My Strong, Healthy Body!” (EUPHA link).
The event had four stations (the heart, the lungs, the muscles, and the brain), where students learned how the main body systems work and were informed on how to care for them for better health, especially as they grow into adults.
Our students taught, played, and danced with the children. Additionally, the students got to explore the University of Thessaly, located in their city, and discussed their dreams and which departments they would like to study in the future!
“Cancer”: Break the Stigma
May 11, 2022
The students of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly invite you to the first event of the second cycle of e-UNI Talks titled “Cancer: Break the Stigma” on Wednesday, May 11, at 8:30pm.
What exactly is stigma? How do we experience it? How can it affect us?
The event will be held via the MS Teams platform and broadcast live on YouTube.
After the event, certificates of participation will be provided to those who register on time and attend the event via MS Teams.
Conference: “Physiotherapy in Primary Health Care: Contribution – Opportunities – Prospects”
May 01, 2022
The Department of Physiotherapy of the School of Health Sciences at the University of Thessaly, in collaboration with the 5th Health Region of Thessaly and Central Greece and the Municipality of Lamia, is organizing a scientific-educational conference titled:
Date: Wednesday, June 1, 2022
Time: 16:00 – 20:30
Venue: Cultural Center of the Municipality of Lamia
Primary Health Care (PHC) is a fundamental pillar of development, well-being, and social cohesion in modern societies. Its primary goal is to monitor, maintain, and improve individual and family health in out-of-hospital settings.
Physiotherapists, both as independent professionals and as part of interdisciplinary health teams, provide comprehensive PHC services, playing a key role in health promotion, functional maintenance, disease prevention, and rehabilitation of chronic patients through a holistic and patient-centered approach.
The event aims to:
✔ Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration within PHC services
✔ Encourage the implementation of integrated prevention and rehabilitation programs
✔ Highlight the role of physiotherapists in digital therapeutics within PHC structures
The conference will be honored by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Health, Ms. Asimina (Mina) Gaga.
e-Uni Talks / LET’S GO TO SPACE!
April 24, 2021
The e-UNI Talks are an initiative from the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly. They serve as a meeting point and platform for exchanging views and knowledge among students, professors, experts, and the general public interested in participating. The main goal is to encourage constructive dialogue on various topics of current interest.
The third event of the e-UNI Talks is titled “LET’S GO TO SPACE!” and through the remarkable works and experiences of the speakers, it will take participants “beyond gravity” while presenting the importance of health in space exploration.
Dr. Christos Georgiou is an Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry at the Department of Biology, University of Patras, with many years of postgraduate studies in the United States. From his collaboration with NASA to his significant written works, he will present a talk titled “Astrobiological Exploration of Our Neighboring Planetary System.”
Dr. Chrysoúla Kourtidou-Papadeli is a Specialist Pulmonologist, Aerospace Medicine Specialist, and Doctor at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She is also a co-founder of the Greek Society of Aerospace Medicine. With her extensive experience in space research, she will present data on how human health is affected under space conditions.
Vasiliki Stefanoulli is an academic scholar at the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly with postgraduate studies at the University of Nottingham in the UK. During her studies, she completed an internship at the European Space Agency (ESA). Through her academic journey and diverse experiences, she will talk about how she managed to combine physiotherapy with space.
The event will take place on Saturday, April 24, at 18:30, online via the MS Teams platform, and it will also be streamed on YouTube. After the event, participation certificates will be provided.
Webinar by the Department of Physiotherapy of the University of Thessaly in Collaboration with the Center for Social Welfare of the Thessaly Region
April 10, 2021
On Saturday, April 10, 2021, as part of the collaboration agreement between the Department of Physiotherapy (Φ/Θ) of the University of Thessaly and the Center for Social Welfare of the Thessaly Region (ΚΚΠΠ), a webinar was held for the employees of the Center’s facilities. The session was inaugurated by the President of ΚΚΠΠ, Dimitra Pappa, and the action coordinator of the Physiotherapy Department, Associate Professor Thomas Mpesios.
The seminar involved employees from various centers, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, and support staff. The objective of the webinar was to train the employees working in Snoezelen sensory integration rooms to familiarize them with equipment such as balance bars, swings, ball pools, touch walls, lighting, etc. The training focused on how, with the proper guidance from a specialist, therapy goals can be achieved, allowing individuals to feel as though they are playing, while in reality, therapeutic work is being done.
The speakers included Associate Professor Thomas Mpesios and Dr. Kostas Chandolias, Academic Fellow and Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Physiotherapy.
At the end of the session, a productive scientific discussion took place, addressing all questions raised by the participants. This training will continue with further meetings, both online and in person, with the aim of ongoing professional development for employees in the field of rehabilitation, ultimately improving the functional capabilities of children.
e-Uni Talks / Green Paths
March 20, 2021
The e-Uni Talks is an initiative of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly, acting as a meeting point for exchanging ideas and knowledge between students, professors, experts, and the general public. The main goal of these talks is to encourage constructive dialogue on various contemporary issues.
The e-Uni Talks continue with a different theme from their first event, transitioning to their second session titled “Green Paths” which focuses on the environment and volunteering. Through this event and the targeted presentations from the speakers, the common goal is to understand the real significance of the environment today and the ways it influences, shapes, and ultimately connects our lives.
At the beginning of the event, Eftychia Prantalou, a graduate of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly and an active member of the Environmental Physiotherapy Association (EPA), will share her experience with volunteering, which led her all the way to Africa. This journey helped her understand the true meaning of social contribution and its direct link to the environment.
Following this, Giorgos Stamoulis, a student of the Physiotherapy Department and an athletics champion, will present the impact of the environment on sports from his own perspective, as he has trained extensively in specialized facilities in Africa in recent years.
The event will take place on Saturday, March 20, at 18:30 online via MS-Teams.
- Link to register: Google Forms
- Link to watch the event: Event Link
- For more information: Facebook e-Uni Talks
Heart Rehabilitation Action: Physical Activity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
February 2021
Heart rehabilitation is an integral part of secondary prevention for patients with cardiovascular diseases. It is provided by a specialized healthcare team aimed at improving and maintaining cardiovascular function, cardiopulmonary/functional capacity, and the quality of life of these patients.
By definition, heart rehabilitation is a multifactorial and comprehensive approach, offering a range of individualized long-term services, including medical clinical examination, cardiopulmonary capacity evaluation, exercise prescription, cardiovascular risk factor modification, patient education, counseling, and behavioral interventions.
The goal is to limit the pathophysiological and psychological impacts of cardiovascular disease, reduce the risk of sudden death, manage cardiovascular symptoms, stabilize or reverse the progression of atherosclerotic disease, and enhance the patient’s psychosocial well-being.
During a pandemic (COVID-19), patients with cardiovascular diseases may become isolated and neglect expert advice regarding exercise and physical activity, leading to passivity and inactivity.
The Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory (EKFAA) of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly in Lamia, has as its main objectives the study of both the immediate and long-term adaptations of the body’s various systems resulting from exercise, the investigation of potential dysfunction mechanisms, and the development of new rehabilitation methods for patients with chronic conditions or pathological states.
Through the laboratory, a group of undergraduate students, under the supervision of Dr. Garifallia Pepera-Kalantzi, participated in an action organized by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). Specifically, the AACVPR has established Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, which takes place from February 14 to 20. This year’s theme is “Beating Strong, Living Long.”
The EKFAA Laboratory of the Department of Physiotherapy responded to the challenge by creating a guide specifically tailored to the COVID-19 pandemic conditions, focusing on Cardiac Rehabilitation for patients with cardiovascular diseases titled “Cardiac Rehabilitation: Physical Activity in the COVID-19 Pandemic.” This guide is written in Greek and includes a video recorded in English with Greek subtitles.
This guide was developed to help and encourage as many patients with cardiovascular diseases or predisposing cardiovascular risk factors as possible to adopt a more physically active lifestyle.
The Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory (EKFAA) of the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly wishes you a Happy Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, and remember: Beating Strong, Living Long!
Scientific Supervisor of the Action:
Dr. Garifallia Pepera-Kalantzi
Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
Deputy Director, Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Laboratory (EKFAA)
Email: gpepera@uth.gr
Laboratory Director (EKFAA):
Prof. Eleni Kapreli
Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, University of Thessaly
Participation of First-Year Students in the Volunteer Group of Lamia General Hospital
February 2020
This action involves the participation of first-year students from the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly in the Volunteer Group of Lamia General Hospital (G.N. Lamias). Through this initiative, the students gained valuable hands-on experience, contributing to the hospital’s daily operations and supporting various healthcare services as part of their broader educational and community engagement efforts.
Take a Breath!
March 2020
The action “Take a Breath!” involves providing counseling support to patients with Chronic Pulmonary Diseases. Through online sessions, a physiotherapist from our team will individually provide the necessary support to each patient who stays at home, including assessment, advice on managing disease symptoms, respiratory exercises, and more.
At Home Without Pain!
March 2020
The action “At Home Without Pain!” involves supporting patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain. Through online sessions, a physiotherapist from our team will provide group therapeutic exercises to patients. The groups will be small and will be determined based on their pathology and health condition.
Participation of the Department of Physiotherapy in Institutions Supporting the Actions of the Environmental Physiotherapy Association
March 2020
The Department of Physiotherapy participates in institutions that support the actions of the Environmental Physiotherapy Association (EPA). The association focuses on integrating environmental awareness into the practice of physiotherapy to promote sustainability and health.
For more information: Environmental Physiotherapy Association.
Participation in the “Diavazo” Campaign by Win Cancer and Collection of Books for Cancer Hospitals
December 2019
The students of the Department of Physiotherapy participated in the “Diavazo” campaign by Win Cancer, collecting books (for adults) to donate to cancer hospitals. This action was dedicated to the memory of their fellow student, Giorgos Paterakis, who lost his battle with cancer but became a symbol of strength and courage for all.
The “Diavazo” campaign by Win Cancer is an annual initiative held before Christmas and New Year’s, aimed at mobilizing active citizens and volunteers to support cancer patients and their families. Aware of the psychological and emotional toll, in addition to the basic physical effects on patients, of staying in the wards and corridors of cancer hospitals throughout the country, the “Diavazo” campaign provides comfort for both patients and their families. It stimulates the reflexes of our fellow citizens, offering a means of assistance and practical support, while also providing an opportunity for each of us to be a donor.
Experiential Educational Visit of Students from the 4th General Lyceum of Lamia
December 19, 2023
An educational visit was conducted by the 3rd Grade Health Sciences Track students of the 4th General Lyceum of Lamia as part of an informational and experiential activity organized by the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Thessaly. The event took place on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the Department’s facilities.
The activity was coordinated by the Human Activity and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, with the participation of Assistant Professor Savvas Spanos and Ph.D. Candidate Anthi Kellari. Additionally, the Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory was involved, coordinated by Assistant Professor Garryfalia Pepera.
During the visit, students had the opportunity to tour the university facilities, receive valuable information about the department’s organization, operations, and curriculum, as well as participate in clinical applications and hands-on skill sessions, gaining firsthand experience in the field of physiotherapy.