POSTER ABSTRACTS
Abstract submission for the 2024 Annual NEALS Meeting is now closed.
Be sure to review the Abstract Submission Guidelines and the POSTER ABSTRACT FAQ section for answers to some of the frequently asked questions for both in-person and virtual poster sessions.
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NEALS Member Trainings & Workshops
Clinical Research Staff Training & Development Workshop*
Oct 27, 2026
The Clinical Research Staff Training & Development Workshop is led by experienced members from the NEALS Consortium Coordinating Centers and will emphasize site management techniques, including study feasibility considerations, study start-up and activation, participant recruitment and retention strategies, the informed consent process, ensuring Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Institutional Review Board (IRB) submissions, utilizing an electronic Regulatory Document System (eISF), addressing staffing models needs, and preparation for monitoring visits.
Participants who successfully complete this workshop will receive a certificate of completion. This certification reflects a participant's dedication to upholding high standards in clinical research management and may be advantageous for those pursuing continuing education activities.
NEALS Bulbar Symposium—Multisystem Committee Update*
Oct 28, 2026
NEALS Bulbar Symposium—Multisystem Committee Update brings together multidisciplinary perspectives to address variability in the evaluation and management of bulbar dysfunction in ALS. Previous survey findings across NEALS sites highlighted inconsistencies in clinical approaches, underscoring the need for greater alignment and shared understanding.
This session convenes NEALS committees to explore their respective roles in assessing and supporting individuals with bulbar involvement, with a focus on clinical evaluation, disease assessment, and management strategies. The goal is to strengthen consistency across sites and support more coordinated, comprehensive care.
NEALS Investigator Training*
Oct 27, 2026
The NEALS Investigator training offers a practical, end-to-end overview of what it takes to run a successful clinical trial site. Designed for investigators and study teams, the session walks through key elements of trial execution—from being an effective site investigator to assessing site feasibility, and understanding the roles that support trial delivery.
The training also provides perspective from clinical research associates and builds in time for discussion, with the goal of strengthening site readiness, consistency, and overall trial performance.
Optimizing Function Across the ALS Continuum: PT and OT Considerations for Clinical Practice*
Oct 28, 2026
Rehabilitation professionals play a critical role in the early identification, management, and longitudinal care of people living with ALS (PALS). This interactive 2-hour workshop will equip Occupational and Physical Therapists with practical, evidence-based strategies for exercise prescription; early referral and diagnostic support; navigating challenging conversations; billing and documentation; and driving evaluation within an ALS clinic. Participants will also gain guidance on assistive equipment recommendations, home and environmental modifications, and driving adaptations to support function, safety, and quality of life across disease progression.
Outcome Measures Training
Oct 27, 2026
The Outcome Measures training is for new and experienced NEALS Clinical Trial Evaluators. The session will focus on training for the core outcomes measures: ALSFRS-R (ALS Functional Rating Scale, Revised), vital capacity, and muscle strength using handheld dynamometry. Attendance at this session will fulfill training requirements for new and re-certifying evaluators. Updates to outcome measure protocols, as well as hands-on practice and technique checks will be part of this training.
Respiratory Care & Ventilation Committee Workshop*
Oct 27, 2026
During this workshop, participants will engage in live demonstrations covering various aspects of ventilation and respiratory care for ALS patients. These include an extended learning experience on the use of portable spirometers, data dashboards for remote monitoring of pulmonary function tests and home ventilation systems. Pulmonary experts will showcase airway clearance techniques and equipment, bi-level positive airway pressure support and non-invasive ventilation.
The goal of the workshop is to engage the community of ALS providers for hands-on learning on improvements and innovations in the field of respiratory care. This activity provides an opportunity to discuss the current state of diverse practices and goals of achieving ALS respiratory standards of care.
Please note that advanced registration is required for this workshop. Due to the hands-on nature of the training, registration will be capped at 60 participants. We encourage you to register early to secure your spot.
CME application submitted.