Over 100 mental health specialists from around the world have arrived in Edinburgh to attend a conference discussing the contribution of physiotherapists in mental health.

The fourth International Conference of Physiotherapy in Psychiatry and Mental Health (IC-PPMH) has been arranged by NHS Lothian and has attracted clinicians from as far afield as Japan and New Zealand.

Anne Parker, Superintendent Physiotherapist, NHS Lothian and IC-PPMH event organiser, said: “It’s important to create and strengthen a culture of physiotherapy within mental health.

“It is vital that we empower the ‘voice’ of the mental health physiotherapists within the profession itself and in relation to the other health professionals we work with.

“Physiotherapy can contribute greatly to mental health and wellbeing.”

The three-day forum is aimed at physiotherapists and professionals who work in psychosomatic medicine, musculoskeletal conditions, pain management, psychiatry and mental health.

Tim Montgomery, Director of Operations, Royal Edinburgh Hospital and Associated Services, NHS Lothian, said: “The conference will help to promote the exchange of experiences and new ideas and continue to expand the global network of professionals exploring the possibilities for physiotherapy within mental health."

The main theme of the 2012 Conference is ‘Promoting Quality of Movement – the contribution of physiotherapy to mental health and wellbeing’.