The Palandoken Physiotherapy Symposium, organized by the Faculty of Health Sciences at
Erzurum Technical University (ETU), was held successfully.
The symposium was organized to share current scientific developments in the field of
physiotherapy, enhance academic interaction, and contribute to the professional development
of students. The opening program was attended by ETU Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Çakmak,
Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Ali Fatih Yetim, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences Prof. Dr. Ayse
Gürol, along with academics, researchers, and students.
In his speech, Rector Prof. Dr. Bulent Çakmak emphasized that physiotherapy and
rehabilitation today stand out not only for their therapeutic role but also for their preventive
and quality-of-life-enhancing approaches. He stated:
“Physiotherapy and rehabilitation is a strategic field that improves individuals’ quality of life,
supports independent living, and contributes to public health. Therefore, such scientific events
contribute to the development of the field while also creating an important platform for
knowledge sharing and collaboration among students and academics.”
Highlighting the importance of continuity in scientific organizations, Rector Çakmak noted
that regularly held symposiums and similar events support academic development and
strengthen knowledge exchange.
Following him, Dean Prof. Dr. Ayse Gürol stated that physiotherapy is an integral part of
daily life:
“Palandoken is an inseparable part of Erzurum’s identity and lifestyle. Physiotherapy, on the
other hand, is a fundamental health discipline that lies at the center of life and considers
individuals together with their environment. Educating our students with this perspective is
among our top priorities as a faculty.”
Gürol also mentioned that the symposium program was designed to cover commonly
encountered topics in clinical practice. She congratulated the academic staff of the
Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation and the members of the ETU Children’s
Club for their contributions to the organization, emphasizing the importance of students
benefiting from such scientific events at the highest level.
Following the opening speeches, the symposium continued with presentations on various
topics:
Prof. Dr. Nuriye Özengin: Physiotherapy and rehabilitation in pelvic floor dysfunction
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ömer Osman Pala: Osteopathic manual therapy in lumbar spine dysfunction
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ramazan Kurul: Orofacial assessment and treatment methods in neurological
disorders
Asst. Prof. Dr. Elif Duygu Yıldız: Physiotherapy and rehabilitation in lymphedema

Asst. Prof. Dr. Enes Tayyip Benli: Vestibular rehabilitation
Corporate Communications and Promotion Directorate – 06.04.2026