1628 - Injecting Interest: A Hands-On Botox Workshop to Spark PM&R Engagement

Objectives: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) remains one of the least diverse specialties, with Latino/a/x physicians comprising only 8–9% of residents despite nearly 19% of the U.S. population. Awareness among Latino/a/x trainees is limited, reflecting a lack of exposure rather than interest. To address this gap, we developed a hands-on Botox injection workshop at the 2025 Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) National Conference. This study evaluated the workshop’s impact on knowledge, perceptions, and career interest in PM&R.

Design: A 1-hour interactive workshop included an introduction to PM&R, spasticity management indications for Botox, and four anatomical simulation stations for upper and lower extremity injections. Pre-medical and medical students registered for the session and completed an anonymous survey assessing demographics and pre- vs. post-workshop awareness, perceptions, interest in PM&R, and intent to seek further exposure. Statistical analysis used Wilcoxon signed-rank testing for paired ratings and chi-square testing for categorical responses.

Results: 32 students attended the conference workshop and 17 students completed the survey (71% women; 94% Latino/a/x). Prior to the workshop, 41% had little or no awareness of PM&R and only 18% expressed clear interest. Afterward, 100% reported at least some understanding of PM&R roles, with 94% describing a more positive perception. Interest in PM&R increased significantly (Wilcoxon p = 0.0009): 76% reported slight–moderate interest and 6% strong interest. Botox content specifically increased interest for 88% of respondents. Regarding next steps, 76% planned to shadow a PM&R physician, 47% intended to pursue electives, and 24% sought research opportunities.

Conclusions: A Botox-based simulation workshop significantly improved awareness, perceptions, and interest in PM&R among a predominantly Latino/a/x cohort.These findings support the value of early specialty exposure in settings that reach underrepresented student groups, offering a promising method to address persistent diversity gaps in PM&R and to strengthen the pipeline needed to meet growing national rehabilitation demands.