ACPOM was created in the early 1990s as a clinical interest group within the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. The group has grown and now has around 400 members. The members are practicing in orthopaedic physiotherapy with a large majority working as injection therapists. As a clinical interest group of the CSP, ACPOM committee members attend meetings discussing current and forthcoming issues that affect professional practice.

For example, recent involvement has been developing with iCSP (interactive CSP web site) and prescribing rights for physiotherapists. ACPOM is able to represent the views of members at the CSP and disseminate information back out to members from the CSP.

ACPOM provides its membership with an annual study day and AGM where current developments are presented, either in lecture, practical or discussion format. ACPOM has in 2005 assisted members to run courses throughout the year, offering advice and help. This ensures that there is the opportunity for continuing education throughout the regions.

The ACPOM website www.acpom.co.uk serves two purposes. Firstly for the membership, there are details on forthcoming courses and study days, as well as presentation details from previous speakers. There are also newsletters, case studies and research articles. Secondly there is a public section where lists of physiotherapists can be found and physiotherapists wishing to join ACPOM can find out how to join. The website is an important communication link, allowing the committee members to be contacted for queries and for exchange of ideas amongst members, as well as membership issues, such as renewal, joining etc.

Emails and information, including newsletters! are sent out electronically to members. This allows the organisation to keep close contact with its membership and quickly disseminate information. ACPOM is firmly committed to continuing professional development and has developed criteria which the membership are expected to meet.

On a voluntary basis members can have their committment to CPD recognised by meeting minimum standards to be on a list of ACPOM approved injectors. This scheme is in its first year and will mature in keeping with current teaching and clinical guidelines. For 2004/5 approved injectors will demonstrate that they have undertaken a minimum of 10 injections per year and have attended at least one update study day or course every two years.