Conferences and Speaking Engagements
Soph is passionate about sharing her knowledge in her areas of professional interest. Alongside her published research, Soph has presented extensively at scientific conferences and professional events, having been invited to speak at national and international events (in the UK and Canada).
To make an enquiry regarding a speaking engagement, contact Soph here.
Conferences
Rural Realities vs. Urban Ideals: Breaking the Metro Mould of Pain Management in Rural Australia [Topical Session - Chair & Presenter]
Shephard, S., Grant, A., Hardman, R., Skinner, I.W.2025 Australian Pain Society 45th Annual Scientific Meeting.
Abstract available here
Navigating the Complexity of Neurodivergence and Pain [Invited Pre-Conference Workshop]
2025 Australian Pain Society 45th Annual Scientific MeetingInvited workshop presenter, alongside Monique Mitchelson (Clin Psych) and Dr Cate Sinclair (OT).
A Neurobiological Perspective on Pain in Autism/ADHD and Implications for Pain Management - Sophie Shephard
This presentation explores the intersections between autism, ADHD, and pain neurobiology, including common (but commonly missed) comorbidities that may contribute to persistent pain, fatigue and other symptoms. The implications of this in terms of unique challenges, opportunities and adaptations to support effective pain assessment and management when working with neurodivergent people will then be explored.
Full session outline here
Picture This: Radiographer Vetting to Reduce Inappropriate Imaging for Low Back Pain
Shephard, S., Dahlenburg, K., & Kilgour, A.2025 Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Conference (Adelaide).
Abstract available here
Pain Science in Radiography Practice [Pre-Conference Workshop]
Shephard, S. & Dahlenburg, K.2025 Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Conference (Adelaide).
2025 Ehlers Danlos Society Global Learning Conference
Brisbane, Australia.Invited speaker across several sessions:
- Panellist: Evolving Care Models and Technology - Innnovations in Service Delivery in EDS
- Session Chair & Panellist: Mental Wellbeing and Neurodivergence
- Workshop Facilitator: Pathways to Diagnosis, Navigating Healthcare Systems, and Accessing Support in Australasia
Pain knowledge and education among Australian radiographers: where are we, and where to from here?
Dahlenburg, K., Spuur, K., Shephard, S., & Perez, W. F. P.2024 Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Conference (Darwin).
Abstract available here
"It's complex" - the challenges and opportunities for physiotherapists who work with chronic pain patients
Shephard, S., Kennedy, D., Gardner, T., & Skinner, I.2023 IGNITE Physiotherapy Conference (Brisbane).
Abstract available here
Navigating patient distress in physiotherapy practice
McGrath, R., Shephard, S., Parnell, T., Verdon, S., & Pope, R.2023 IGNITE Physiotherapy Conference (Brisbane).
Abstract available here
Pain Science in Radiography Practice
Kilgour, A., Shephard, S., Dahlenburg, K.2023 ASMIRT Winter Education Weekend (Tasmania).
Seeing the bigger picture: Embracing modern pain science to enhance care in the imaging department
Shephard, S., Dahlenburg, K., & Neep, M.2023 Australian Society of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Conference (Sydney).
Abstract available here
Other Professional Events
Mobilizing the Physiotherapy Workforce for Suicide Prevention (College of Physiotherapists Alberta, Canada)
Online WebinarInvited by College of Physiotherapists Alberta to present alongside Dr Ryan McGrath, to discuss the role and scope of physiotherapists in suicide prevention and navigating distress.
RCM130 Patient Centred Care: Applications in Medical Imaging (City, University of London)
Invited Guest LectureInvited guest lecturer for RCM130 Module, presenting on pain neuroscience and its relevance to radiographer clinical practice and patient experiences in the imaging department. Awarded the Team Patient's Choice Award in the 2024 Radiography Awards (UK) as part of the module delivery team.
Long COVID Series (NSW Health)
Online Webinar SeresInvited expert as part of MLHD NSW Health Long COVID project:
Webinar #1 - Localising the Long COVID Model of Care
Webinar #2 - Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology Assessment and Management
Webinar #3 - Patient and Clinician Wellbeing Whilst Navigating Uncertainties In Diagnosis and Treatment
Suicide Prevention is Everyone's Business: How Physiotherapists Can Support Clients in Distress (Australian Physiotherapy Association)
Online WebinarInvited presenter through the Australian Physiotherapy Association, alongside Dr Ryan McGrath.
Individuals experiencing persistent pain are two to three times more likely to die by suicide then the general population. With these statistics, suicide prevention is everybody’s business. Despite this, physiotherapists often report a lack of confidence when working with clients in distress. This lecture is intended to provoke thought and discussion about a challenging and sometimes stigmatised topic, identify some of the commonly reported barriers for physiotherapists working in this space, and suggest introductory strategies or further resources that clinicians can use to develop their confidence and understanding.
Recording available here (free for APA members)
The Modern Pain Story - Whole of Community Event (Pain Revolution)
Community PresentationFree whole of community event supported by Pain Revolution, led by Sophie Shephard (Local Pain Educator) joined by a panel of local health professionals. In this session, we shared a modern understanding of pain science with the community, based on 4 Key Pain Facts from Pain Revolution.
Murrumbidgee Pain Hub (Pain Revolution)
Group FacilitatorAs part of the Local Pain Educator program, helped to establish and facilitate monthly meetings for local health professionals interested in pain and pain management, fostering collaborative learning, networking and knowledge sharing.