The María Cano University Foundation, Medellín campus, received a visit from two distinguished graduates of the Physiotherapy program: Miguel Moreno and Camilo Pérez, representatives of IPS RE:ACT Rehabilitation and Physical Activity. The event also featured the participation of physiotherapist Dr. Federico Montero Cuadrado, PhD in Physiotherapy from the University of Salamanca (Spain), a recognized researcher in pain and neuroscience, and creator of Spain’s Active Pain Coping Units. This activity was part of the institution’s ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation with the productive sector, enhance professional training, and provide scientific updates for faculty and students.

During the meeting, Dr. Montero shared the most relevant advances in contemporary approaches to chronic pain, emphasizing the need to move beyond passive treatment models toward strategies that encourage active patient participation in their recovery process. His presentation addressed updated concepts in pain neuroscience, the psychosocial factors that contribute to its persistence, and the importance of integrating strategies based on education, therapeutic exercise, and self-management.

Active Pain Coping: A Paradigm Shift

The specialist explained how the Active Pain Coping Units—a model he pioneered in Spain—have shown significant results in reducing the functional and emotional impact of chronic pain. These units operate under an interdisciplinary approach that combines:

• Pain neuroscience education, helping patients understand their condition and reduce fears or misconceptions.

• Progressive physical training, focused on restoring functionality rather than merely decreasing discomfort.

• Emotional self-regulation tools, such as stress management and active decision-making in the therapeutic process.

• Strengthening autonomy, positioning the patient as the main agent of their own recovery.

According to Montero, this approach allows clinicians and patients “to shift from a therapist-dependent care model to one in which the patient recognizes their abilities, responds actively to their pain, and transforms their relationship with movement.”

A Space for Academic Exchange and Professional Growth

Faculty members and students actively participated in the discussion, highlighting the value of incorporating these approaches into academic programs and clinical practice. The presence of graduates such as Miguel Moreno and Camilo Pérez also underscored the positive impact of strong collaboration between the University and the productive sector on professional relevance and continuous improvement.

Through initiatives like this, María Cano reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, evidence-based training, and the preparation of physiotherapists as agents of change in contemporary health care models.

#MásMaríaCano