The centerpiece of our Helsinki trip was the Scandinavian Association for the Study of Pain 2024 Congress. It provided insights into the latest pain research and treatment practices. The focus this year was the shifting nature of pain across various age groups and the role of plasticity, sleep, and the glymphatic system in pain management.
Our research conference in Helsinki was more than just an academic event. It was an opportunity for personal and professional growth, a chance to strengthen our bonds as a team, and a journey filled with learning, discovery, and fun.
We were a group of nine researchers from the CIM/MUSK Health Research Group, set off for an exciting congress in Finland. The conference was held in the heart of Helsinki and brought together interdisciplinary pain researchers from all over Scandinavia. We were proud to present nine different posters at the congress, a significant contribution that reflected the breadth and depth of our research endeavors. Each poster was a testament to our team's hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Among our team, two of our PhD students, Martin and Kaja, got extra recognition for their projects at the conference. Martin was chosen to give a lecture about his PhD research on co-occurrent pain and psychological distress from adolescence to adulthood.
Kaja won the award for best poster presentation with her neat representation and clear communication of her research findings on persistent musculoskeletal pain and mental distress in adolescents. It was indeed a proud moment for our team, as both these PhD students were recognized for their contributions to the field.
Despite the rigorous schedule of the conference, we ensured that we explored the beautiful city of Helsinki. The Moomin stores, with their endearing and whimsical charm, were a delightful highlight of our city excursions. Although the stores were filled with what some might consider unnecessary items, we could not resist the appeal of the cute Moomin merchandise. Some of us happily parted with our money, returning with armfuls of adorable souvenirs and gifts.
Amidst the academic pursuits, some of the PhD students also took on a thrilling challenge - a run alongside MUSK’s greatest marathon runners. It was an exhausting experience that tested our endurance and gave us a unique chance to explore the banks of the city in the summer sun. The evenings were spent going out for social dinners together as a group.
Our trip to Helsinki reaffirmed our belief in the importance of our research work and the impact it can have. With renewed energy and inspiration, we return to the office, ready to continue our quest for knowledge. As for the cute Moomin souvenirs, they serve as adorable reminders of our memorable journey to Helsinki, the city that welcomed us with open arms and left us with unforgettable memories.
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