As both clinically and research-trained physical therapists working within R1 institutions, we are uniquely positioned to access emerging evidence years ahead of the “17 years” it takes for widespread clinical adoption.1 We benefit from dedicated teams focused on dissemination and implementation, allowing us to promptly translate findings from ongoing research to clinical practice and into the classroom for the next generation of physical therapists. Even in this resource-rich environment, publication can be costly and meaningful translation requires sustained effort over years. This reality stands in stark contrast to the experience of most physical therapists: for many clinicians, access to current evidence, and the infrastructure to implement it efficiently, remains limited.
While we actively support and mentor clinicians and scientists to present and publish their work, a persistent challenge remains: even when studies are successfully completed and presented, a substantial proportion never reach publication. Recent estimates suggest that nearly half (47%) of sports and orthopaedic abstracts presented at the American Physical Therapy Association’s Combined Sections Meeting remain unpublished (Smith et al). As a result, clinically relevant findings fail to reach the practitioners who implement them.
In our roles as President of the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy (AASPT) and Chair of the Research Committee, we value our longstanding partnership with the International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy (IJSPT). As the publication landscape evolves, expanding open access models are reshaping how researchers, institutions, and professional organizations disseminate work. Open access publishing offers a critical advantage: it removes barriers to information, enabling clinicians across diverse settings, including private practices and underserved regions, to access and apply the latest evidence without delay.
We are excited to announce a new member benefit through our partnership with IJSPT. The journal will sponsor up to 12 publications from AASPT members annually by waiving article processing charges (APCs). Although many grant-funded studies require open access publication to maximize reach, APCs are often not covered, creating a significant barrier to dissemination. This initiative directly addresses that gap.
At a time when clinicians are navigating both information overload and the pressure for rapid evidence translation, partnerships that prioritize accessibility and clinical relevance are essential. The International Federation of Sports Physical Therapy (IFSPT) shares this commitment, aligning closely with AASPT’s mission to advance the profession through high-quality, clinically meaningful research and more consistent, evidence-informed care.
Eligibility for this program is based on a tiered system beginning with CSM AASPT abstracts that were accepted for presentation following blinded peer review by AASPT members. Presenting authors who intend to develop their abstract submissions into full manuscripts are eligible for this program. Priority will be given to submissions selected for the “Best Abstract in Sports Physical Therapy Research” session. The AASPT research chair will then extend additional invitations to authors of platform presentations. All manuscripts submitted via this program will undergo full peer review and are not guaranteed publication in the IJSPT.
It is inspiring to see IJSPT leading the way in publishing high-quality work emerging from CSM.2 We are optimistic that this initiative will reduce barriers to publication and increase the likelihood that peer-reviewed research reaches clinicians who can apply it to improve patient outcomes.
Beyond a partnership between AASPT and IJSPT, this effort represents a broader platform for growth and innovation within our profession. We invite our members not only to submit their work to CSM, but also to embrace opportunities for publication and actively contribute to shaping the future of sports physical therapy research.
We are grateful for the continued collaboration with IJSPT and for the shared enthusiasm driving this initiative forward. To our AASPT members: we encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity, not only to disseminate your work, but to help shape the future of sports physical therapy through meaningful, accessible research. Your engagement and contributions are essential to advancing the evidence base that underpins our practice.
Airelle O. Giordano, AASPT President
Dan Cobian, AASPT Research Committee Chair
Barb Hoogenboom, IJSPT Editor-in-Chief